What Does DOT Hazmat Training Include? A Closer Look

Do you work in the transportation industry? Did you know that completing your HAZMAT certification can increase your income by about $11,000?

If this sounds appealing, then it's time to find a DOT HAZMAT training program. This provides the information you need to pass the certification exam. Keep reading to learn more about getting this advanced endorsement.

The Department of Transportation (DOT) HAZMAT Regulations

The DOT regulates all aspects of the transportation process for hazardous materials (HAZMAT). The following describes each step that the DOT tracks.

Movement

The DOT regulates all HAZMAT movement regardless of the transportation mode. This includes motor vehicles, aircraft, rail cars, or vessels.

Loading

All loading of HAZMAT containers or packages must follow specific standards. Examples include the bracing and blocking of the HAZMAT item. There are also rules for how to segregate HAZMAT containers from incompatible cargo.

Storage

The storage of HAZMAT transportation vehicles, containers, and packages must adhere to regulations. This includes the time from when a person takes physical possession until delivery. Shipping documents, package marking, and other mediums provide a detailed log.

For example, drivers carrying explosives must follow strict rules to protect the load. These drivers must park a specified distance from structures and roadways.

They may need to get permission to park near some road features. These drivers must always maintain a direct view of the vehicle during transport.

Unloading

The DOT also regulates the proper procedure for safely unloading HAZMATs. The driver bears responsibility for overseeing the removal of the load. Their responsibility ends when the recipient takes possession.

DOT HAZMAT Training

The first step is to list all employees involved in HAZMAT transportation. This includes all workers who transport dangerous items. Also, any employees who package, load, and unload these materials.

All individuals must complete a HAZMAT certification before starting their duties. This reduces the potential risks that may occur when handling this type of cargo. Re-training should take place at least every three years.

At times, regulatory agencies release new rules or change existing ones. If this occurs, employees should receive extra training. Workers can't perform the related function until they've received the current education.

There are several levels of HAZMAT training.

HAZMAT General Awareness Training

Any driver that transports HAZMATs must complete OSHA-required basic training. This general awareness course covers the DOT HAZMAT regulations.

Participants learn how to correctly identify materials that are considered hazardous. This must also correctly perform skills demonstrating DOT HAZMAT adherence.

HAZMAT Security Awareness Training

Individuals must receive security awareness training if they work with at-risk items. They're taught the dangers involved with handling and transporting the HAZMATs.

Participants learn the proper safety and security measures to protect themselves and others. Students receive instructions on recognizing and responding to possible security threats.

Every new employee must complete this training within 90 days of beginning work. They may complete a DOT HAZMAT online training course.

Enhanced HAZMAT Security Training

All employees that directly handle HAZMATs must have extra security training. This in-depth course teaches them about the security plan and how to follow its protocols. They also learn about the organization's security structure and their specific duties.

Participants must show correct knowledge and skills related to the security procedures. This includes how to manage security breaches.

Preventing fire hazards is another vital component of this training. For example, they're responsible for ensuring that no one smokes near their load. They must also avoid parking near any source that could ignite the materials.

Radioactive Material Precautions

Special precautions are also needed when carrying radioactive materials. Drivers receive basic education in radiation science and emergency safety actions.

About three million radioactive materials get transported in the U.S. each year. The level of risk determines what precautions to take.

Very low radioactivity materials pose little threat and have very few or no controls. Highly radioactive materials carry a potential public hazard and have more regulations.

This includes notifying state and local officials that they're carrying radioactive cargo. They must plan and describe the specific route and extra security protocols.

These shipments also need special packaging that's undergone extensive testing. Drivers must display special labels and signs on the containers and vehicles.

How to Complete DOT HAZMAT Certification

To get a DOT HAZMAT certification, first, complete an approved training program. Make sure that you take all course levels that apply to your job.

After completing your training, you may wish to take the DOT HAZMAT Practice Test. This covers the information and proper handling of the following:

• Combustible or flammable liquids
• Explosives
• Gases
• Other materials that pose a potential threat harm

Completing practice tests helps you find areas where you need further study. The goal of these courses is to give you the knowledge and skill to work safely.

Once you're ready, you'll take a test that's usually 30 questions in length. Each state sets its passing score.

For most states, this is 80 percent. This means you must correctly answer 24 of the 30 questions to become certified.

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