Which of the following statements about hazardous materials is true?

The statement that hazardous materials can be in solid, liquid, or gas form is true and reflects the reality of what constitutes hazardous materials. Hazardous materials encompass a wide range of substances that can pose risks to health, safety, and the environment, and they are categorized based on their physical state. This means that hazardous materials can manifest in various forms—solid, such as contaminated soil; liquid, such as chemicals in containers; and gas, such as toxic vapors. Understanding the different forms in which hazardous materials can exist is crucial for proper identification, handling, and response during emergency situations involving them.

The other statements present misconceptions about hazardous materials. It is not accurate to say that all hazardous materials are immediately dangerous to life and health since many hazardous materials may have different levels of toxicity and risk depending on exposure scenarios. Additionally, hazardous materials can include not only chemical substances but also biological agents and radioactive materials, which means the statement about only chemical substances being considered hazardous is overly narrow. Furthermore, the visibility of hazardous materials can vary greatly; some harmful substances may be colorless and odorless, making them hard to detect without specialized equipment. Recognizing these nuances helps in effectively managing hazardous materials in various environments.