What does the term "hazardous materials" refer to?

The term "hazardous materials" specifically refers to substances that pose risks during transportation due to their potential to cause harm to people, property, or the environment. These materials can be explosive, flammable, corrosive, toxic, or radioactive, making their safe handling and transportation critical.

Recognizing this definition, options that suggest common household items or everyday chemicals found in vehicles do not necessarily describe materials classified as hazardous according to regulatory standards. Similarly, while food items transported in commercial vehicles must adhere to safety standards, they are generally not categorized under hazardous materials unless they can pose specific risks, which is less common. Hence, the focus on substances that present a significant risk during transportation accurately captures the essence of what hazardous materials are.