| Get a Move On | DOT HAZMAT Transportation & Requirements |
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), through the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), requires that workers involved in the transportation of hazardous materials meet various training requirements. These requirements apply to “Hazmat employees”, as defined by DOT, including workers who:
- load, unload, or handle hazardous materials;
- design, manufacture, test, recondition, repair, modify, mark, or otherwise represent
containers or packages that will be used to transport hazardous materials;
- prepare hazardous materials for transportation;
- have responsibility for the safety of the hazardous material transportation;
or - operate a vehicle used to transport hazardous materials.
Training Types
General Awareness Training – Required for all hazmat employees, general awareness training enables workers to recognize and identify hazardous materials. It also provides workers with information on the general requirements included in the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR).
Function-Specific Training – All hazmat employees must receive training regarding the HMR requirements for the specific functions they will perform on the job. This function specific training might include instruction on hazardous material packaging, marking, labeling, placarding, filling out shipping papers, and more.
Safety Training – This required safety training teaches hazmat employees about the hazards that can happen when hazardous materials are being handled. Emergency response, safe handling, and accident avoidance are among the topics covered.
Security Awareness Training – Hazmat employees are required to get training on the security risks involved when working with or transporting hazardous materials. The training should include instruction on recognizing threats, responding to hazardous situations, and amplifying security.
In-Depth Security Training – Those hazmat employees who implement security plans or perform certain regulated functions will be required to complete in-depth security training. The training should provide a detailed understanding of the company-specific security plan, including objectives, procedures, and actions to be taken if a threat is encountered.
The required training for hazmat employees must be completed within 90 days of hire or a job function change. Workers should not perform functions subject to Hazmat Regulations prior to training, unless they are under the direct supervision of a properly trained hazmat employee. After the initial training, recurring training must be completed at least once every three years. DOT Hazmat training must also be followed by testing so the employer can ensure proper training. Training records are required to be maintained by the employer, including certification that the employee has been trained and tested.
The DOT hazmat employee training requirements are intended to keep workers and the public safe from the dangers that can occur when hazardous materials will be transported. For more information, see the DOT Brochure: Hazmat Transportation Training Requirements.
For 100% Online DOT Hazmat training, including Function Specific courses, see our DOT Hazmat training course catalog.
