Which agency is responsible for setting hazardous waste definitions and characteristics?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the agency responsible for establishing definitions and characteristics related to hazardous waste. This involves creating regulations that identify what constitutes hazardous waste, including specific criteria based on the properties that can pose risks to human health or the environment. The EPA develops guidelines that outline how hazardous waste should be managed, ensuring that it is handled, treated, and disposed of safely.

This role is critical because proper identification of hazardous waste is essential for ensuring compliance with environmental laws and protecting public health. It allows for effective monitoring and regulation of waste management practices across various industries. In contrast, the other agencies mentioned, while they have important public health and safety roles, focus on different areas: the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention primarily deals with public health concerns, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration focuses on workplace safety, and the Food and Drug Administration regulates food safety and pharmaceuticals. Each agency has its specific domain, but the responsibility for hazardous waste regulations lies with the EPA.