As used in this chapter, the term "hazardous material" means any substance or mixture of substances that is toxic, corrosive, an irritant, strong sensitizer, flammable, combustible, or that generates pressure through decomposition, heat or other means and that may cause substantial personal injury or illness during customary or reasonably anticipated handling or use or may cause an unreasonable threat to property, the public health or safety, or the ecological balance of the environment. "Hazardous material" includes, but is not limited to, explosives, radioactive substances, petroleum or petroleum products, poisons, toxic gases, flammable substances, corrosive substances, and pathogens. (1965 Code § 8-5-1)