Hazmat stands for hazardous materials. It is an abbreviation used throughout the industry because it is quicker and easier to say. If you hear someone say hazmat, they are referring to the hazardous materials of the job. Specifically, hazmat refers to materials that cause harm if you come in contact with them. Examples include fuel, chemicals, viruses, and radioactive agents. They appear in solid, liquid, and gas states. Hazmat includes feces and urine.