Hazardous Waste Identification and Handling Flashcards
7 cards from real NYC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Hazardous Waste Identification and Handling flashcards as text
Which federal agency sets regulations for the handling and disposal of hazardous waste that NYC sanitation workers must comply with?
Answer: EPA
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates hazardous waste management under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
A NYC sanitation worker notices white powder spilling from a garbage bag on collection. What should the worker do?
Answer: Secure the area, do not touch it, and call 911 or a supervisor
Unknown white powder is treated as a potential hazmat or even biological threat; workers must secure the area and contact emergency services rather than disturb it.
Under NYC regulations, residents are prohibited from placing which of the following items at the curb for regular garbage collection?
Answer: Propane tanks
Propane tanks are pressurized and potentially explosive; they are classified as hazardous material and must not be placed at the curb for regular collection.
What is the primary purpose of secondary containment when handling hazardous liquids during waste collection?
Answer: To prevent spills from contaminating the surrounding environment
Secondary containment provides a backup barrier to prevent hazardous liquid spills from reaching soil, water, or drains, protecting both workers and the environment.
Which NFPA rating system uses a diamond-shaped label with four color-coded quadrants to indicate hazardous material risks?
Answer: NFPA 704
NFPA 704 is the Standard System for the Identification of the Hazards of Materials for Emergency Response, using a four-color diamond on containers and buildings.
What does a blue quadrant rating of '4' on an NFPA 704 diamond indicate?
Answer: Deadly health hazard
In the NFPA 704 system, the blue quadrant represents health hazards, and a rating of 4 indicates a substance that is deadly even with brief exposure.
Which of the following personal protective equipment items is MOST important when handling unknown liquid spills during waste collection?
Answer: Chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection
Chemical-resistant gloves and eye protection are critical for unknown liquid spills to prevent skin absorption and eye injuries from potentially corrosive or toxic substances.