Hazmat Loads in American Trucking: Classes, Rules, Licenses, and Safety

Hazmat transportation is a big part of the American trucking industry. Moving these materials safely and efficiently is key to public safety and the environment. This article covers hazmat loads, the classes of hazmat, the rules for transporting them, the licenses and documents for carriers and drivers and the safety measures to get them there safely.

What are hazmat loads?

Hazmat loads are shipments that contain hazardous materials—substances that can harm health, safety, property or the environment. These can be flammable liquids and gases to toxic chemicals and radioactive substances. Because of the risks associated with hazmat loads they are regulated to minimize risks during transport.

Classes of Hazmat

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) classifies hazmat into nine classes based on their physical and chemical properties:

• Class 1: Explosives

1.1 (Mass Explosion Hazard), 1.2 (Projection Hazard), 1.3 (Fire Hazard), 1.4 (Minor Explosion Hazard), 1.5 (Insensitive Explosives), 1.6 (Extremely Insensitive Explosives).

Examples: Fireworks, ammunition, blasting agents.

• Class 2: Gases

2.1 (Flammable Gases), 2.2 (Non-Flammable, Non-Toxic Gases), 2.3 (Toxic Gases).

Examples: Propane, oxygen, chlorine.

• Class 3: Flammable Liquids

Examples: Gasoline, diesel fuel, acetone.

• Class 4: Flammable Solids; Spontaneously Combustible Materials; Dangerous When Wet

4.1 (Flammable Solids), 4.2 (Spontaneously Combustible Materials), 4.3 (Dangerous When Wet Materials).

Examples: Matches, magnesium, sodium.

• Class 5: Oxidizing Substances and Organic Peroxides

5.1 (Oxidizers), 5.2 (Organic Peroxides).

Examples: Ammonium nitrate, hydrogen peroxide.

• Class 6: Toxic and Infectious Substances

6.1 (Toxic Substances), 6.2 (Infectious Substances).

Examples: Pesticides, medical waste, pathogens.

• Class 7: Radioactive Materials

Examples: Uranium, radioactive medical equipment.

• Class 8: Corrosive Substances

Examples: Sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, battery acid.

• Class 9: Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods

Examples: Asbestos, dry ice, lithium batteries.

Each class has its own hazards and requires its own handling and packaging procedures to be safe.

Hazmat Regulations

Hazardous materials are transported in the U.S. by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), a department of the Department of Transportation (DOT). Key regulations are:

1. Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR)

The HMR (49 CFR Parts 100-185) covers the requirements for classification, packaging, marking, labeling, placarding and documentation of hazmat during transport.

2. Driver Requirements

Drivers hauling hazmat loads must have a Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) on their Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). This requires passing a written test and a background check by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

3. Placarding

Vehicles hauling hazmat loads must display the proper placards for the hazmat on board. These placards are standardized, color-coded and must be visible from all sides of the vehicle.

4. Shipping Papers

Hazmat loads must have shipping papers that detail the material’s class, quantity and emergency response information. These papers must be in the vehicle in case of an emergency.

5. Emergency Response Information

The carrier must have emergency response information that includes the hazmat being transported, hazards and first aid.

6. Security Plans

For high-risk hazmat, carriers must develop and implement security plans to address theft or sabotage.

Required Licenses and Documents for Carriers and Drivers

Hauling hazmat in the U.S. requires specific licenses and documentation for carrier companies and drivers. This is to comply with federal regulations and safety standards.

Licenses and Documents for Carrier Companies

• Hazardous Materials Registration

Carrier companies must register with the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) if they haul hazmat in commerce. This must be renewed annually.

• USDOT Number

Carrier companies in interstate commerce, including those hauling hazmat, must have a USDOT number. This number is used to monitor safety performance and compliance with federal regulations.

• Motor Carrier (MC) Number

An MC number is required for carriers operating as for-hire transporters of regulated commodities across state lines. This is issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).

• Insurance

Carrier companies hauling hazmat must have sufficient liability insurance as required by the FMCSA. The amount of coverage varies by hazmat being transported. For example, companies hauling Class 1 explosives or Class 2.3 toxic gases must have at least $5 million in coverage.

• Hazmat Safety and Security Plan

Carriers must develop and implement a hazmat safety and security plan for high-risk materials. This plan outlines the procedures for safe transportation of hazmat and security measures to prevent unauthorized access or tampering.

Licenses and Documents for Drivers

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

A CDL is required for drivers operating vehicles hauling hazmat loads. CDL must be issued by the state where the driver resides.

Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME)

Drivers must have an HME on their CDL to haul hazmat. To get an HME, drivers must:

Pass a written test on hazmat regulations, safety and emergency response.

Submit to a background check by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) which includes fingerprinting.

Comply with state requirements for renewing the endorsement.

TSA Security Threat Assessment (STA)

Before an HME can be issued, drivers must undergo a Security Threat Assessment (STA) by the TSA to ensure they are not a security risk. The STA checks the driver’s criminal history, immigration status and other factors.

Medical Examiner’s Certificate

Drivers must have a valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate which certifies they meet the physical qualifications to operate a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) safely. This is part of the CDL requirements.

Hazmat Training Certification

Drivers and other personnel involved in the transportation of hazmat must be trained as required by the HMR. Training includes general awareness, function-specific training, safety, security awareness and in-depth security training for high-risk materials. Certification of this training must be documented and updated every 3 years.

Safety Measures and Best Practices

Safety is top priority when hauling hazmat. Here are some measures and best practices to minimize risk:

Training

All personnel involved in the transportation of hazmat, including drivers, loaders and dispatchers, must be trained on handling, emergency procedures and regulatory compliance.

Inspection and Maintenance

Vehicles hauling hazmat must be inspected frequently to ensure they are in good working condition. This includes brakes, tires and containment systems.

Routing

Carriers must plan routes to avoid heavily populated areas, tunnels and other high-risk locations whenever possible.

Communication

Driver and dispatch communication is key to monitoring the load and responding to any issues.

Incident Reporting

In the event of an accident or spill, reporting to the authorities is immediate. Quick action is critical to contain the hazard and protect the public.

Hauling hazmat in the trucking industry is a highly regulated and safety focused operation. Knowing the hazmat classifications, following federal regulations, getting the required licenses and documents and implementing strict safety measures are all crucial to safe and efficient delivery of these dangerous goods. For drivers and carriers, being informed and compliant is not just a legal requirement but a public and environmental duty.