Resource Sheet 3: Hazardous Waste Symbols

The following symbols indicate hazardous materials:

Poison or toxic. These materials, if ingested, can cause serious illness or death, in addition to cancer, birth defects, or other chronic health problems.

Flammable. These materials will burn under certain conditions. They may also be toxic to humans or other living things.

Explosive. These materials may react violently when exposed to heat or or other substances. They may also be toxic to humans or other living things.

Corrosive. These materials can eat away other substances, including living tissue.

Radioactive. These materials may cause illness if not shielded properly or if their shield breaks down due to improper disposal. Only a few household items, such as some smoke detectors, would contain this symbol. If you see containers with this symbol away from the house, stay away from them and report their location to the police immediately.

Biohazardous / Infectious. These materials may pass on disease. No household items would contain this symbol. If you see containers with this symbol away from the house, stay away from them and report their location to the police immediately.