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9.1 – The Intent of Hazmat Regulations

Why do Hazmat regulations exist?

9.1.1 – Contain the Material

Transporting hazardous materials can be risky. The regulations are intended to protect you, those around you, and the environment. They tell shippers how to package the materials safely and drivers how to load, transport, and unload the material. These are called containment rules.

9.1.2 – Communicate the Risk

To communicate the risk, shippers must warn drivers and others about the material's hazards. The regulations require shippers to put hazard warning labels on packages, provide proper shipping papers, emergency response information and placards. These steps communicate the hazard to the shipper, carrier and driver.

9.1.3 – Ensure Safe Drivers and Equipment

To obtain a Hazardous Materials endorsement on a CDL, you must pass a written test about transporting hazardous materials. To pass the test, you must know how to:

• Identify what are hazardous materials.
• Safely load shipments.
• Properly placard your vehicle in accordance with the rules.
• Safely transport shipments.

Learn the rules and follow them. Following the rules reduces the risk of injury from hazardous materials. Taking shortcuts by breaking rules is unsafe. Non-compliance with regulations can result in fines and jail time.

Inspect your vehicle before and during each trip. Law enforcement officers may stop and inspect your vehicle. When stopped, they may check your shipping papers, vehicle placards, the Hazardous Materials endorsement on your driver’s license, and your knowledge of hazardous materials.