Regulatory Agencies

DOT is responsible for developing and issuing the HMR. The regulations govern the transportation of hazardous materials in interstate, intrastate, and foreign commerce. DOT carries out this responsibility through the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA).

PHMSA is divided into two offices: the Office of Pipeline Safety and the Office of Hazardous Materials Safety (OHMS). The OHMS evaluates safety risks, develops and enforces hazardous materials regulations, issues special permits and approvals, educates shippers and carriers, investigates incidents, and conducts research. PHMSA also represents the DOT when working with international regulatory agencies such as the following:

• International Maritime Organization (IMO)
• International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)
• United Nations Subcommittee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods and on the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals
• International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

Authority to enforce the HMR is delegated to various agencies within DOT, including PHMSA, FMCSA, FAA, and FRA, as well as the U.S. Coast Guard.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulates the U.S. trucking industry. The FMCSA issues requirements concerning highway routing of hazardous materials, endorsement for a commercial driver's license, safety permits, and financial responsibility requirements for motor carriers of hazardous materials. The FMCSA enforces the Federal Motor Carrier Regulations provided in 49 CFR Parts 350-399.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Office of Hazardous Materials works with the PHMSA to increase safety in air transportation by preventing hazardous materials accidents and incidents aboard aircraft. The FAA Hazardous Materials Program conducts inspections of repair stations, air carriers, and shippers; implements outreach and education programs; and gathers and analyzes data to find dangerous trends before they can become problems.

The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) Hazardous Materials Division administers a safety program that oversees the movement of hazardous materials by rail. The FRA also enforces the safety regulations provided in 49 CFR Parts 200-268.

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulates the bulk transportation of hazardous materials that are loaded or carried on board a vessel. The Hazardous Materials Division is responsible for developing and maintaining regulations, standards, and industry guidance to promote the safety of life as well as protection of property and the environment during the marine transportation of hazardous materials.

To learn more about DOT HAZMAT Awareness visit our DOT HAZMAT General Awareness Online Training web page.