Class 5 Hazardous Materials and Disposal

Handling and disposing of hazardous materials requires careful attention and expertise, especially when it comes to Class 5 substances. 

These materials — categorized as oxidizers and organic peroxides — pose unique risks due to their ability to intensify fires or decompose violently under certain conditions. 

Whether you operate in agriculture, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, or laboratory settings, understanding the nature of Class 5 hazardous materials is important for maintaining safety.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Class 5 hazardous materials — from their properties and common uses to the dangers they present, best practices for safe storage, and critical considerations for disposal and compliance.

What are Class 5 Hazardous Materials?

Class 5 hazardous materials are substances that present a significant fire and explosion risk due to their ability to either intensify combustion or decompose dangerously under certain conditions. They are divided into two categories:

Division 5.1 – Oxidizers

These materials do not burn themselves but can cause or contribute to the combustion of other substances by yielding oxygen. Oxidizers can make fires burn hotter and faster, increasing the severity of an incident.

Examples include:

• Ammonium nitrate (commonly used in fertilizers)
• High-concentration hydrogen peroxide (used in industrial cleaning and disinfection)

Division 5.2 – Organic Peroxides

These compounds are thermally unstable and may undergo explosive decomposition, especially when exposed to heat, friction, or contamination. Organic peroxides are both oxidizing agents and combustible, making them particularly dangerous in storage and handling.

Examples include:

• Methyl ethyl ketone peroxide (used in plastics and fiberglass manufacturing)
• Benzoyl peroxide (often used in polymer production and acne treatments)

Proper identification and classification of Class 5 materials are important for safe handling, storage, and disposal. Even small amounts can pose serious hazards without appropriate precautions in place.

Common Uses of Class 5 Hazardous Materials

Class 5 hazardous materials are widely used across multiple industries due to their reactive and oxidizing properties. While these materials serve important functions, their presence demands strict oversight to prevent dangerous incidents.

Agriculture

Oxidizing fertilizers such as ammonium nitrate are commonly used to boost crop yields. However, improper storage or mixing with fuel sources can lead to catastrophic explosions, making careful handling critically important.

Laboratories

Research labs and testing facilities often use oxidizers and organic peroxides in chemical reactions, testing, or analysis. Small quantities can still present a high risk if stored or disposed of improperly.

Chemical Manufacturing

Class 5 materials are frequently used as raw ingredients or catalysts in the production of plastics, resins, adhesives, and other synthetic materials. This sector is one of the largest generators of oxidizers and organic peroxides.

Pharmaceuticals

Certain drugs and topical agents, such as those containing benzoyl peroxide, fall under the Class 5.2 category. The pharmaceutical industry also uses Class 5 materials in drug synthesis and sterilization processes.

Everyday and Consumer Sources

While many Class 5 substances are used in industrial settings, they also appear in everyday products. Common examples include:

• Pool treatment chemicals (calcium hypochlorite)
• Bleaching agents
• Hair dyes and acne treatments containing peroxides

Even these consumer-level materials can become hazardous in bulk or when mixed with incompatible substances, especially in storage areas or waste facilities.

Knowing where Class 5 hazardous materials are used can help organizations properly identify, segregate, and manage them throughout their lifecycle.

Dangers of Class 5 Hazardous Materials

Class 5 hazardous materials pose serious safety risks due to their reactive and unstable nature. Whether used in industrial processes or stored onsite as waste, these substances can quickly become dangerous without proper handling and containment.

Fire and Explosion Hazards

Oxidizers (Division 5.1) can intensify fires by supplying oxygen to surrounding combustible materials, while organic peroxides (Division 5.2) are capable of self-igniting under heat, friction, or contamination. These reactions can lead to violent explosions, especially in confined spaces or when incompatible materials are stored nearby.

Thermal Instability

Organic peroxides are highly sensitive to temperature changes. If storage temperatures exceed safe limits, the material can decompose rapidly, releasing heat and gas, and potentially triggering chain reactions that escalate into fires or explosions.

Incompatibility With Other Materials

Class 5 substances must be strictly segregated from flammables, acids, reducing agents, and other reactive chemicals. Mixing incompatible wastes — even accidentally — can result in toxic fumes, combustion, or detonation.

Environmental and Health Risks

If released into the environment, Class 5 materials can contaminate soil and water sources, harm ecosystems, and pose health risks to humans through inhalation, skin contact, or accidental ingestion. Some oxidizers and organic peroxides are also corrosive or toxic.

Storage and Handling Best Practices

Proper storage and handling of Class 5 hazardous materials are critical to preventing fires, explosions, and environmental harm. These substances are highly reactive and can become dangerous even under normal conditions if not managed correctly. Follow these best practices to ensure safety and compliance:

Segregate from flammable or combustible materials.

Class 5 materials, particularly oxidizers, can intensify fires when in contact with flammable liquids, solids, or gases. Always store them separately from fuels, solvents, organic materials, and other reactive substances. Use dedicated storage areas with appropriate physical barriers or distance to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.

Store in ventilated, temperature-controlled environments.

Organic peroxides are thermally unstable and can decompose if exposed to heat, leading to pressure buildup or combustion. Storage areas should be well-ventilated and equipped with temperature controls to prevent overheating. Avoid direct sunlight or proximity to heat sources.

Clearly label containers with compatible packaging.

Only use containers approved for hazardous materials and compatible with the specific chemical inside. Labels must clearly indicate the chemical name, hazard class, and handling instructions. Secondary containment is strongly recommended in case of leaks or spills.

Train employees on storage and PPE requirements.

Personnel handling Class 5 materials must receive proper training on chemical hazards, emergency procedures, and safe handling techniques. Required personal protective equipment (PPE) may include gloves, goggles, chemical-resistant clothing, and face shields, depending on the material and task. Regular safety drills and ongoing education help reinforce safe practices.

Safe Disposal and Compliance: What You Need to Know

Disposing of Class 5 hazardous materials isn’t as simple as calling a waste hauler. These substances are highly reactive, and their disposal is governed by strict regulations from the EPA, DOT, OSHA, and state environmental agencies. 

Unfortunately, not all disposal providers are equipped or certified to handle oxidizers and organic peroxides — putting your business at risk if you choose the wrong partner.

Compliance Challenges

Proper disposal starts with correct waste identification and classification. Class 5 materials require detailed labeling, compatible packaging, and accurate documentation, including hazardous waste manifests. Failure to follow these protocols can lead to costly fines, liability in the event of an incident, and reputational damage.

As the generator, you retain cradle-to-grave responsibility for your waste — even after it leaves your facility. That means any mishandling or regulatory violation by your disposal partner could ultimately fall back on you.

Your Role in Safe Disposal

To protect your business and the environment, it’s important to work with a certified hazardous waste disposal contractor that understands the unique risks of Class 5 materials. Partnering with a knowledgeable provider ensures proper segregation, transportation, and final disposal, while also offering peace of mind that you're meeting all legal requirements.

Routine waste audits, clear documentation, and trained professionals help prevent mistakes and keep your operations running smoothly. When you prioritize safety and compliance, you’re also protecting your team, your community, and your bottom line.

What to Look for in a Disposal Company

Choosing the right hazardous waste disposal company is critical — especially when dealing with reactive materials like Class 5 substances. Here are key qualities to look for:

• Proper certifications and regulatory knowledge

• Experience with reactive materials

• Turnkey services, from identification and packaging to transportation, treatment, and disposal

• Emergency response capability

• Transparent reporting and support

Clear records, regular audits, and accessible support staff make it easier to stay compliant and demonstrate due diligence. A good disposal partner will help you build a strong paper trail and answer questions as regulations evolve.