What is a common characteristic of Class 5 hazardous materials?

Class 5 hazardous materials are primarily characterized as oxidizers. Oxidizers are substances that can provide oxygen to support the combustion of flammable materials, thereby increasing the risk of fire and explosion under certain conditions. This characteristic is crucial in understanding the handling and storage considerations for such materials, as they can intensify fires, making them more dangerous when involved in incidents.

The categorization of oxidizers into Class 5 includes both materials that may be solid oxidizers and liquid oxidizers, emphasizing the need for precautions in their transportation and storage. Recognizing their potential to cause or enhance fires is essential for maintaining safety in environments where these substances are present.