For an item to be classified as hazardous, must it always leak from its original container?

For an item to be classified as hazardous, it is not necessary for it to leak from its original container. An item can be considered hazardous based on its properties or characteristics, such as being toxic, flammable, corrosive, or reactive, regardless of whether it is contained or leaking. The classification of a substance as hazardous depends on its potential risk to health or the environment, not solely on its physical state or containment.

Labeling something as hazardous typically involves evaluating factors such as the material's chemical composition, its potential exposure risks, and the regulations governing hazardous materials. Therefore, the assertion that it must leak from the container to be classified as hazardous is inaccurate.

While a leaking container may pose an immediate threat, the potential hazard associated with a substance can exist even if it is perfectly sealed. Consequently, the classification of hazardous materials encompasses a broader scope than merely the state of leakage.