Utah General Contractors - Business and Law Practice Exam

What type of waste includes gypsum drywall?

1. Non-hazardous waste

2. Hazardous waste

3. Liquid waste

4. Universal waste

The correct answer is: Hazardous waste

Gypsum drywall is classified as non-hazardous waste. This type of waste is typically materials that do not pose a significant risk to human health or the environment when properly managed. Gypsum is a naturally occurring mineral, and when drywall is disposed of, it does not exhibit hazardous characteristics such as ignitability, corrosivity, or reactivity. In construction and renovation projects, the management of waste materials, including drywall, is important. Proper disposal and recycling practices for non-hazardous waste help reduce landfill use and support sustainable practices. Hazardous waste is classified based on specific criteria that involve toxicity or danger to health and requires special handling and disposal protocols, which do not apply to gypsum drywall. Liquid waste pertains to waste materials that are in a liquid state and usually involves different disposal requirements. Universal waste refers to widely generated hazardous waste, such as batteries and fluorescent lamps, which are not applicable in the context of gypsum drywall. Therefore, identifying gypsum drywall as non-hazardous waste is essential for ensuring proper waste management in construction practices.