text: HAZARDOUS WASTE - A solid , liquid , or gaseous waste , or combination of these wastes , which because of its quantity , concentration , or physical , chemical , or infectious characteristics may cause or significantly contribute to an increase in mortality or an increase in serious irreversible , or incapacitating reversible , illness or pose a substantial present or potential hazard to human health or the environment when improperly treated , stored , transported , disposed of , or otherwise managed .
  
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  An increase in mortality or harm is part of the definition of hazardous waste .