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Whenever the idea of hazardous materials is discussed, people will automatically think about incredibly dangerous chemical compounds that can cause tremendous damage if humans were to come into contact with them.
While this classification does apply to such chemicals, they are not the only things that fall under the umbrella. Perfume, for example, is not something that would be thought of as particularly problematic. However, when drivers are transporting it in bulk, there can be dangers that must be managed.
The US Department of Transportation requires that anyone who will be shipping hazardous materials is trained and certified. Whether it is a city or highway, these persons will be moving dangerous goods along roadways where there will be other civilians who could be severely injured by a mishap.
With all that said, below is a look at some essential details about hazmat trucking in Ohio.
Understanding Hazardous Material Federal Regulations
The word "hazmat" is a concatenation of the words "hazardous" and "materials." As indicated before, these compounds do not need to be inherently toxic to present a concern. Sometimes, it is not even about the public that may be affected.
Many of the rules in place are meant to protect the workers who will be handling the goods on planes, ships, or even in warehouses. These people could be hurt if there are spills, leaks, or drops.
Seemingly harmless items can cause a lot of problems when they are accidentally inhaled, injected, ingested, or absorbed into the human body.
Therefore, there are classifications at the federal level that cover different kinds of hazardous materials, as well as how they are to be treated. Larrimer & Larrimer can also advise on types of chemical hazards and how to manage them.
Hazardous Materials to Know
There are nine hazmat classifications, which are ranked from the most to least dangerous. Note that there are sub-classes that fall under each of the major ones. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration provides the following:
Class 1: Explosives
Class 2: Gases
Class 3: Flammable liquid and combustible liquid
Class 4: Flammable solid, spontaneously combustible and dangerous when wet
Class 5: Oxidizer and organic peroxide
Class 6: Poison (toxic) and poison inhalation hazard
Class 7: Radioactive
Class 8: Corrosive
Class 9: Miscellaneous
How the Supply Chain Gets Goods to the Right Place
Hazmat procedures are clearly defined. However, the specifics that will apply to a shipment depend on the exact materials that need to be moved. This is why the classification system mentioned above is important. Typically, when any shipping is to take place, the freight company will inform the customer about the precautions and processes involved. For more information, attorneys at Larrimer & Larrimer may be able to help.
Any movement of the products will go through the following stages from the manufacturer's side:
Classification - The first step is to ensure that the material is properly classified. Effectively, the handler of the material must ensure that a product safety data sheet is completed. This is essential to providing details to workers on what they are handling and how they are to protect themselves.
Package choice - Whatever packaging is chosen will highly depend on which product is at play. Some items have specific laws that govern how they are to be contained. For example, if a liquid is dangerous, it needs to be transported in a drum. Furthermore, the material of the drum will need to be decided based on the liquid.
Marking and labeling - Depending on the shipping class, hazardous materials are expected to be appropriately marked. The ID number, weight, and other particulars of the items will also need to be known for labeling. This is an important task that must be handled with no errors. Something that seems small, such as an arrow pointing in the wrong direction, can pose disastrous consequences to the shipping process.
Preparation of shipping papers - Additional papers are sometimes necessary depending on the materials that are at play. If hazmat items are to be safely shipped, their quantity, packing group, package type, etc., will need to be recorded properly and promptly. Any issues with this can lead to delays in shipping.
Hazmat Safety Tips for CDL Professionals
There is an undeniable link between trucker qualifications and the ability to safely transport hazardous materials. This is why there is a great responsibility placed on the shoulders of drivers during the movement process. After all, many people can become injured from exposure to chemicals if there is a mishap during the transportation process.
Bear in mind too that there may be hijackers who want to target the cargo as it moves along its path. With all this in mind, CDL professionals are advised to adhere to the following protocols:
Truck security - Do not leave the keys in the truck if the engine is not running. Once the truck has been exited, it should be locked. Should a driver be outside of a 25-foot radius of the vehicle, doors, windows, and any access to compartments should be effectively secured.
Trailer security - Any tools, cabinets, and hoses, should be properly secured if they are not actively being used. When hazardous materials are being transported, there should be no open compartments present. Additionally, the shipping papers associated with the job should be on the passenger's seat. This provides easy accessibility. Record the time, date, and the number of trailer/tank seals.
Travel security - Check to see if anyone seems to be surveilling the departure of the truck before leaving any facility. Do not speak to anyone about the contents of the truck if they do not need to be in the loop. Ensure that devices are charged for use during an emergency and pay attention to any logistical challenges/impediments. Finally, ensure to communicate reasonably with the dispatcher.
Were You Exposed to Hazardous Materials on the Job in Ohio? Let Larrimer & Larrimer Provide the Legal Support You Need!
Even with all the procedures and recommendations above, sometimes employers and other parties can drop the ball, which results in unfortunate injuries. Have you been the victim of toxic chemical exposure while on the job? A seasoned workers' compensation attorney can get you the settlement you deserve!
Schedule a free consultation today with Larrimer & Larrimer.
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