Which of the following is considered hazardous waste?

Expired pharmaceuticals are considered hazardous waste because they can pose significant risks to human health and the environment if not managed properly. They often contain active ingredients that may be harmful if ingested or absorbed, and when disposed of inappropriately, they can contaminate soil or water sources, leading to broader ecological harm.

In healthcare settings, the disposal of expired pharmaceuticals must be regulated and handled with care, often requiring specialized disposal methods to prevent accidental exposure or misuse. This classification helps ensure that these substances are managed in accordance with proper waste management protocols to mitigate any potential risks associated with their disposal.

Other items listed, while they may have specific disposal requirements, do not universally classify as hazardous waste under the same criteria. Used bandages, for example, may be considered biohazardous but are typically handled through specific medical waste protocols rather than categorized strictly as hazardous waste. Old medical equipment could also be managed differently based on materials and whether they harbor any biohazard risks. Paper documents are generally not classified as hazardous waste unless they contain sensitive or classified information requiring special handling.