The DOT and OSHA require chemical training in order to create and maintain a safer environment for individuals who handle hazardous chemicals. The DOT defines as hazardous any substance that has the potential to cause harm to humans or to the environment. The DOT reports that more than 3 billion tons of hazardous chemicals are transported in the United States every year; many of these substances are useful or will be used to make products that are useful; in the meantime, they require special handling.
The Department of Transportation requires that anyone involved with the transportation of hazardous chemicals have training. OSHA requires site supervisors to undergo chemical training annually to ensure a safer workplace. The DOT acknowledges that the pool of competent trained professionals is growing smaller and is attempting to provide avenues to train the next generation of skilled hazardous-material handlers.
Visit the website hazmatonline.phmsa.dot.gov (see Resources for complete URL) for publications that can help you identify hazardous chemicals and to learn whether you have adequate training to handle them. If you work with hazardous chemicals and you don't have the proper licenses or certification, you may be subject to fines.
Individuals who want to get OSHA or DOT chemical training can register for a class to become certified to handle hazardous materials. Many community colleges offer HAZMAT classes through their Fire Science department. In addition, private training companies offer classes and certification. Before you register for training, ask if successful completion of the training will make you OSHA and/or DOT certificate compliant.
Hazardous materials require special marking so they and the hazard they present can be correctly identified in an emergency. The DOT recognizes special placards and shipping labels to identify hazardous chemicals in cargo.
History gives us several good examples of incidents that resulted in the release of hazardous chemicals in the environment. In 1989, the oil tanker "Exxon Valdez" ran aground, releasing nearly 11 million gallons of oil that ultimately damaged more than 1,000 miles of coastline. In 1984, a chemical plant in Bhopal, India, accidentally released several tons of poisonous gas that settled over the city, killing thousands of people and leaving thousands more permanently injured.