Which class does flammable solids belong to in the classification of hazardous materials?

Flammable solids fall under Class 4 in the classification of hazardous materials. This class is specifically designated for materials that are solid at room temperature, and have the potential to ignite and burn readily under certain conditions. The key defining characteristics of flammable solids include their ability to easily catch fire when exposed to an ignition source, and the production of flammable gases when they react with water or other substances.

This classification is crucial for ensuring proper handling, storage, and transportation procedures to mitigate risks associated with their flammability. It also helps in establishing the necessary safety measures required in case of an incident involving these types of materials, underscoring the importance of understanding the nature of hazardous solids in emergency response scenarios.

Classes 1, 2, and 3 refer to explosives, gases, and flammable liquids, respectively, which do not encompass the characteristics and hazards presented by flammable solids. Therefore, recognizing flammable solids as part of Class 4 is integral to effectively managing these hazards in compliance with safety regulations.