Tank Truck & Hazardous Materials Questions & Answers

Q. What should a driver know about shipments when there are two labels on a package or container, and why?

A. Several specific HM require multiple labels and are so listed in the Hazardous Materials Regulations. In other cases, if a material meets the definition of two specified HM classes, it is required to be labeled for each. Both primary and subsidiary labels must display the appropriate class or division number in the lower corner of the label. If a single packaging contains materials of different hazard classes, the label for each such class must be affixed to the outer package. In these cases, the driver must check the shipping papers to ascertain the primary hazard classes for the purpose of placarding the transport vehicle.

Q. What new requirements govern the shipping papers used to transport HM?

A. Shipping paper description sequences must now begin with the U number, for example: "UN1090, Acetone, 3, PGII" Subsidiary hazard classes must be entered in parentheses following the primary hazard class, for example: Disobutylamine has a primary hazard of 3 - Flammable Liquid and a subsidiary hazard of 8 - Corrosive. Its basic description would be: "UN2361, Disobutylamine, 3 (8), PGIII". The number and types of packaging must be listed on the shipping papers.

Q. When must drivers surrender their hazardous materials endorsements?

A. An individual must surrender his/her HME if he/she is one of the following: 1. An alien (unless a lawful permanent resident) 2. An individual who has renounced his/her U.S. citizenship 3. An individual who is wanted or under indictment for certain felonies 4. An individual convicted in civilian or military court for certain felonies 5. An individual who has been found to be mentally defective or committed to a mental institution 6. An individual who is considered to pose a security threat based on a review of various databases

Q. What substances can contaminate or damage waterways?

A. As far as the driver is concerned, any quantity of petroleum products from either cargo or fuel tanks and those substances as defined by government agencies as "hazardous substances, "hazardous wastes" or "marine pollutants" should be considered as contaminants capable of causing damage to waterways.

Q. What are the general relationships between labels and placards?

A. Both labels and placards are diamond-shaped, and placards generally resemble the labels used on packages and containers. Sometimes, placards and labels are identical except for size. Other times, there are minor variations in wording, color scheme or both.

Q. What special check must be made by the driver hauling hazardous materials?

A. By law, the shipper is required to check shipping papers for the HM to ascertain what class(es) is/are in the load to determine whether or not placards are needed. However, drivers should also check shipping papers to determine whether or not the vehicle displays the proper placards on the front, rear and both sides. The driver must also segregate incompatible types of HM from each other inside the trailer.

Q. In general, what type of cargo is most likely to increase the seriousness of a track fire?

A. Explosives, oxidizers and organic peroxides are most likely to increase the seriousness of a truck fire.

Q. What is the purpose of a nitrogen blanket in a trailer?

A. Nitrogen is a colorless, odorless gas that does not support combustion. Applying a cover of nitrogen gas (nitrogen blanket) over the surface of a flammable or combustible product is ideal for pressure-unloading flammable or combustible materials, especially those with a low flash point. Nitrogen also is used to prevent product contamination from air or moisture.

Q. Does a spill have to be going directly into a stream in order to be reportable?

A. No. A spill on dry land could enter into a nearby stream by run- off or seeping through to an underground stream. A spill into a roadside ditch could flow into a stream, lake or river. As such. these spills are reportable. Remember, too, that in some states all spills are considered to have potential access to a waterway.

Q. Are spills only a problem for tank truck carriers?

A. No. Any spill from broken drums, carboys, other packages, punctured fuel tanks, or damaged crossover lines is reportable. In addition, spills during refueling of a vehicle may be reportable.

Q. Why is speed control on curves and turns especially important when driving any cargo tank vehicle?

A. On curves and turns, the sideways movement of the liquid cargo to the outside of the turn is added to the normal centrifugal force exerted on the vehicle which increases the possibility of the cargo tank vehicle overturning.

Q. Why is it necessary to keep liquid hazardous materials from reaching sewers?

A. Once underground, it will be virtually impossible to control the spread of the liquid and any potential hazards associated with the liquid.

Q. Why are cargo tanks equipped with "overturn protection"?

A. Overturn protection protects the cargo tank's valves and manhole covers from damage in the event of overturn so as to minimize or totally prevent cargo loss.

Q. How can packages marked in accordance with the United Nations' recommendations and HM regulations be recognized?

A. Packages marked in accordance with United Nations' recommendations and HM regulations can be identified by the "U" symbol which will be followed by a series of code letters and numbers providing information about the type of package, the material of which the package is made, the country of manufacture, etc.

Q. What classes of HM require placarding of the vehicle when an aggregate gross weight of 1,001 pounds or more is on board?

A. Placarding is required if the aggregate gross weight of any of the following HM is 1,001 pounds (454 kg) or more on a truck: 1. Division 1.4, 1.5 and 1.6 Explosives* 2. Division 2.1 Flammable Gas 3. Division 2.2 Nonflammable Gas 4. Class 3 Flammable Liquid 5. Combustible Liquids 6. Division 4.1 Flammable Solid 7. Division 4.2 Spontaneously Combustible 8. Division 5.1 Oxidizers 9. Division 5.2 Organic Peroxides (other than organic peroxide, Type B, liquid or solid, temperature controlled) 10. Division 6.1 Poisons (other than inhalation hazards) 11. Class 8 Corrosives 12. Class 9 Miscellaneous HM** Division 1.4 Explosives, Compatibility Group S (1.4S), which are not required to be labeled, do not require placarding. ** Domestic shipments are exempted from placarding. "Keep Away From Food" and "Drive Safely" are not authorized placards and should no longer be displayed.

Q. When must a truck be placarded?

A. Placards are required if the vehicle is transporting any quantity of Table 1 HM, or 454 kg (1,001 pounds) or more of Table 2 HM. The tables may be found in HMR section 172.504. See also sections 172.500 through 172.560 of the Hazardous Materials Regulations for details. If you are unsure of the placarding requirements for a particular load, contact your dispatcher or safety manager.

Q. What type of product hazard classes must be grounded while loading and unloading?

A. Products considered to be flammable and combustible must be grounded while being loaded and unloaded.

Q. What classes do not require placarding regardless of the quantity being transported?

A. The driver need not placard the vehicle if he/she is transporting Division 6.2 Infectious Substances, materials classed as ORM- D, Radioactive Materials bearing the Radioactive White I or Radioactive Yellow I labels, limited quantity shipments of HM, Limited Quantity shipments of HM, non-bulk shipments (1 - 1000 pounds) of combustible liquids, or Class 9 materials

Q. What should a driver do in the event of a vehicle spill involving materials that might contaminate or otherwise damage waterways?

A. The driver should attempt to protect the scene, if trained to do so. The driver should notify local emergency responders through 911 or the telephone operator; notify his/her company; and follow the company officials' instructions. Also, drivers should be aware that in many states, every area is considered to have potential access to a waterway, so drivers should always notify their company of a spill, even if it appears to be completely impractical for the spill to reach water.

Q. Should the driver attempt to use these emergency telephone numbers?

A. The driver should follow the policy of his/her employer when deciding whether to use the emergency telephone numbers). In an HM emergency, a driver should contact his/her company and the appropriate local emergency responders through "91I" or the telephone operator. He/she should have shipping papers ready to show the emergency responders when they arrive. Under certain circumstances, immediate notification must be provided to the National Response Center by telephone.

Q. Which interstate vehicles must stop at railroad grade crossings?

A. The following interstate vehicles must stop at a railroad grade crossing: 1. Buses transporting passengers 2. Vehicles transporting any quantity of chlorine 3. Vehicles marked or placarded for the transportation of HM 4. A cargo tank vehicle, loaded or empty, used for the transportation of HM, or for any liquid having a flashpoint of less than 200°F 5. Cargo tank vehicles transporting any commodity which was loaded at a temperature in excess of its flashpoint 6. Cargo tank vehicles, loaded or empty, transporting an HM under the terms of a "special permit" (formerly "exemption") granted by PHMSA

Q. What emergency response information is required by these rules?

A. The following minimum emergency response information must be provided for each HM shipment: 1. The description of the material as prescribed in the shipping paper rules; 2. Any immediate health hazards; 3. Risks of fire or explosion; 4. Immediate precautions to be taken in case of an accident: 5. Immediate methods for handling tires; 6. Initial methods for handling leaks and spills when fire does not occur: 7. Preliminary first aid measures

Q. What are the consequences of inadvertently overfilling a storage tank?

A. The hazards of overfilling a storage tank will vary with the nature of the product, and could cause a fire. In addition to the loss of product, overfilling a storage tank is likely to result in environmental damage and require costly clean-up measures.

Q. How must the identification number be displayed on a cargo tank, portable tank, other bulk packaging, or transport vehicle requiring placarding for the HM it contains?

A. The identification number may be displayed on placarded cargo tanks, portable tanks, other bulk packaging, and transport vehicles; 1) by black numbers on an orange background adjacent to each class placard; or, 2) the number may be shown on the placard instead of the hazard class name. The "UN" or"NA" prefix is not required in these circumstances.

Q. When must the identification number of an HM be visible on the exterior of a vehicle transporting non-bulk packages of HM?

A. The identification number of an HM must be visible on the exterior of a vehicle when 8,820 pounds or more of a single HM all with the same proper shipping name and identification number) is loaded at one stop, and there is no other material on board, either hazardous or non-hazardous. Additionally, when 2,205 pounds or more of a Poison Inhalation Hazard material assigned to either Hazard Zone A or B is loaded at one facility, the transport vehicle must be marked with the identification number for that material as follows: 1. For different materials in the same Hazard Zone, the vehicle should be marked with the identification number of the material with the highest weight; and, 2. For different materials in both Hazard Zones A and B, the vehicle should be marked with the identification number for the Hazard Zone A material.

Q. When must the identification number of an HM be visible on the exterior of a vehicle transporting bulk packages of HM?

A. The identification number of an HM must be visible on the exterior of a vehicle whenever such HM is being transported in a bulk packaging such as a cargo tank or portable tank. If the identification number on a bulk container cannot be seen outside the vehicle, additional numbers must be displayed on the vehicle.

Q. What do the markings V, I, P, L, K, and T stand for?

A. The markings - V, I, P, L, K, and T - indicate what tests and inspections must be performed on a cargo tank. The tests include "V" for visual test: "I" for internal visual test; "P" for pressure test; "L" for lining test; "K" for leakage test; and, "T" for thickness test. The markings will indicate the date that the test or inspection was performed. All tanks will not necessarily require all tests and inspections. If EPA Method 27 is used for leakage testing, the tank must be marked K-EPA Method 27.

Q. What must be done with the hazardous materials placards on a cargo tank after its HM cargo has been unloaded?

A. The placards must be left in place until the vehicle is purged to remove all HM residues.

Q. What action should the professional driver take if the HM on fire is the type that should not be extinguished by water?

A. The professional driver should specifically advise emergency responders of the presence of the HM and warn them not to use water.

Q. What is the "remote control" on a cargo tank?

A. The remote control on a cargo tank is a secondary control to close the internal valves. It is an emergency device located remotely from the normal control handles used to operate the internal valves.

Q. How can this information be made available at the scene of a highway emergency involving HM?

A. The required emergency response information may be provided: 1. On the shipping paper; 2. On a separate form such as a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) which shows the prescribed description and the necessary information: 3. In a separate document such as an Emergency Response Guidebook.

Q. What specifications are prescribed for Specification Cargo Tanks?

A. The specifications prescribed for Specification Cargo Tanks are intended to protect against the particular hazard(s) associated with an HM load. They include requirements for overturn protection, valves, venting, manholes, metal thickness, piping, and welding procedures.

Q. How must the identification number be displayed on a cargo tank, portable tank or other bulk packaging when the HM being transported requires an identification number displayed but not a placard?

A. The three options available for displaying the identification number on a cargo tank, portable tank or other bulk packaging transporting HM which do not require placarding are: 1) by black numbers on an orange panel; or, 2) by black numbers on a white square-on-point configuration having the size and shape of a placard (when used alone, the identification numbers must be displayed in the manner prescribed for placards); or, 3) by black numbers on a placard.

Q. If a driver has a twin-trailer unit and only one trailer contains HM, where are placards required?

A. The trailer containing the HM must be placarded, but the trailer containing non-HM should not be placarded.

Q. According to the FMCSRs, within what distance from a railroad grade crossing must a driver stop his/her vehicle (if the vehicle is one of those required to stop)?

A. The vehicle must be brought to a full stop within 50 feet but not less than 15 feet, from the nearest rail of such railroad grade crossing.

Q. How does the driver placard a vehicle that contains a mixed load of HM?

A. There are four ways to placard a vehicle with a mixed load of HM. Which option to use depends on the class of hazardous materials and the weight loaded at any one location, for example: 1. If the load includes a class of HM that requires placarding for any quantity (Table 1), that class placard must be put on and displayed as long as the commodity is on board and without regard to any other compatible HM that may be loaded into the vehicle and the placarding that is required for those other hazardous materials. 2. If the load includes one class of HM for which placarding is required at 1,001 pounds or more, that class placard must be displayed when the aggregate gross weight on board reaches 1,001 pounds; the placard may be displayed for any quantity of that material which is on board. 3. If the load includes two or more classes of material for which placarding is required at 1,001 pounds (Table 2), and the gross weight of the combined classes is 1,001 pounds or more, either the class placard for each class or, alternatively, the DANGEROUS placard may be used. 4. If 2,205 pounds or more of an HM for which placarding is required at the 1,001 pound level (Table 2) is loaded at a single location, the class placard for that HM must be displayed in addition to any other required placard(s). (NOTE: Cargo tanks and portable tanks must be placarded for any quantity of material carried. Also, the use of the "Dangerous" placard is not allowed for bulk packaging.)

Q. How can a driver determine whether a shipment is a hazardous material?

A. There are several ways to identify a shipment of hazardous materials: 1. By the information on the shipping paper 2. By diamond shaped labels on containers and packages 3. By a marking on the container such as the hazard class (e.g., Flammable)

Q. Where should placards be placed on the vehicle?

A. There should be four placards: one placard on each side, the front and the rear of the vehicle. The front placard may be either on the cargo body or the front of the power unit.

Q. In addition to proper placarding, what else must the driver consider in transporting a mixed load of HM?

A. because of the danger involved, certain classes of HM cannot be transported together in the same vehicle. If a driver is not familiar with these restrictions, he/she should contact his/her supervisor before loading different classes of HM in any vehicle. [See 49 CFR $ 177.848]

Q. What information must be provided by the commercial vehicle driver in order to receive a hazardous materials endorsement?

- Name, applicable suffix, and any other name used previously - Current residential address and previous residential address(es) for the preceding 7 years - Date of birth - Citizenship - Social Security Number - Height, weight, hair and eye color - Immigration status and date of naturalization, if a naturalized citizen - Gender - Alien registration number, if applicable - City, state and country of birth - Current employer information - State of application, CDL number, and type of endorsement held - Certification - signed and dated - Statement that he/she (driver) has a continuing obligation to disclose to the state within 24 hours if he/she is convicted of a disqualifying crime - Privacy Act Notice - certified and dated - Statement certifying the truth of the information provided dated Statement acknowledging that TSA may notify his/her employer and provide threat assessment information

Q. What are the general duties of a driver when handling a hazardous material shipment?

1. Check the shipping paper to be sure it is properly prepared 2. Check the labels on the container to see that they agree with the class(es) shown on the shipping paper 3. Check each package or container for leaking or other visible damage 4. Not load the HM if it is incompatible with other HM shipments or with food stuffs already on the vehicle 5. Ensure that the packages are properly blocked and braced to prevent shifting and relative motion between packages under conditions normally incident to transportation 6. Ensure the vehicle is properly placarded. Additional driver requirements are found in Part 397 of FMCSR.

Q. What is "outage" and why is it important?

A. "Outage" is the volume of the tank which is not filled when the tank is loaded. For flammable liquids, it is generally from 1% to 3% of the total volume. Outage is important in order to prevent spillage and tank rupture. Generally, and especially during warm weather, tanks are filled with liquids which are cooler than the air temperature. Most liquids to some degree heat-up and expand during transportation. If there is no outage or inadequate outage when the liquid warms and expands, the liquid spills through the vents. It is also possible with inadequate outage for the liquid to spill through the vents if the vehicle is proceeding on a grade, or stops and starts suddenly. In the case of inoperative or inadequate vents, improper outage may result in a tank which may rupture due to expansion.

Q. What is a Specification Cargo Tank?

A. A Specification Cargo Tank is a tank vehicle constructed to manufacturing specifications as prescribed by the HM Regulations.

Q. What is the difference between a "baffle" and a "bulkhead"?

A. A baffle and a bulkhead are both internal tank sections almost always perpendicular to the long axis of the tank. The difference is that bulkheads are liquid tight while baffles have openings generally at the top and bottom. Bulkheads, therefore, divide the tank into separate compartments while baffles do not. Baffles help reduce product surge.

Q. When does liquid surge present the greatest problem in a cargo tank vehicle?

A. A cargo tank is particularly vulnerable to liquid surge when the cargo tank is only partially full.

Q. Internal valves on cargo tanks are used for what purpose?

A. A cargo tank's internal valves are self-closing shut-off valves used in normal unloading operations and are designed and operated to close automatically to prevent the accidental release of product.

Q. What is the leading cause of environmental fines for motor carriers transporting HM?

A. A carrier's failure to complete timely telephone and written reports for fuel spills has resulted in fines and penalties for 1% of all power units.

Q. What is the difference between a "flammable liquid" and a "combustible liquid"?

A. A combustible liquid has a higher flashpoint and is more difficult to ignite than a flammable liquid. The distinction between the two is based on the flashpoint (which is the lowest temperature at which vapor ignites in a specified test). The upper limit of the flashpoint of flammable liquids is 141° F. Liquids with a flashpoint between 141° F and 200° F are classified as combustible liquids. Gasoline was previously classed as a flammable liquid, and diesel fuel and kerosene were once classed as combustible liquids. All three are now legally classified as flammable liquids.

Q. When do the FMCSRs require a professional driver to be in attendance when a fuel tanker is being fueled?

A. A driver must be in attendance during the fueling of a tanker, when the vehicle is required to be placarded for the transportation of HM.

Q. When can the use of water on a truck fire make things worse?

A. A driver should not use water to extinguish those HM which react chemically with water, burn in contact with water, or specific flammable or combustible liquids which float on water. A professional driver should be aware of the appropriate method of extinguishing a fire for any given loud to be hauled.

Q. Where can a driver find the "reportable quantity" (RQ) of a particular HM and what does it mean?

A. A driver would refer to the Hazardous Substance Appendix to the Hazardous Materials Table to find the reportable quantity of an HM. The RO is found in Table 1 to the Appendix A. The RQ amounts are listed in both pounds and kilograms as follows: 100 (45.4). The weight listed refers to the amount of the material in one package, not the total weight of the shipment.

Q. In the event a person is exposed to acid while loading or unloading acid, what step should be taken first?

A. A person who has been exposed to acid should remove contaminated clothing and douse him/herself immediately and thoroughly with warm water for no less than 10 minutes.

Q. What is a "shear section" on a flammable liquid tank truck?

A. A shear section is a specially machined section of the outlet piping. It has a slight groove cut in the pipe within 4 inches of the tank shell. Its purpose is to ensure that, in the event of damage to the piping in a collision, the pipe will break at the shear section which is outside the tank shell, thus minimizing the possibility of damage to the tank shell and internal valve.

Q. What is the "Specification Plate"?

A. A specification plate (or spec plate), as required by the Hazardous Materials Regulations, is one that is permanently affixed to the Specification Cargo Tank vehicle and shows such things as the specification number, name of the tank manufacturer, tank manufacturer's serial number, dates of manufacture and test, and shell materials. The information on the plate varies according to type of tank vehicle.

Q. When transporting flammables, what type of emergency signal is forbidden to be used by the tank truck driver?

A. A tank truck driver is forbidden to use any flame producing emergency signal when transporting flammables.

Q. Which creates the greatest fire hazard - a tank vehicle lying on its side or a tank vehicle that has rolled over 180 degrees?

A. A tank truck, which has rolled I80 degrees and is lying upside down, poses a greater risk than a tank truck on its side because the safety relief valves at the top of the tank may be buried or held shut, thereby restricting their ability to relieve the tank's internal pressure (which would increase with heat).

Q. May the tractor engine be kept running while loading or unloading a tank truck?

A. A tractor engine may only be kept running during the loading or unloading of a tank truck if the engine is required to run a pump, and then only if care is taken to avoid ignition of fumes.

Q. What are the hazards associated with unloading HM into the wrong storage tank?

A. An inadvertent mixture of incompatible materials may result in the release of toxic fumes, and/or a possible increase in the danger of fire or explosion. A spill could result if the tank overflows.

Q. How does a hazardous substance differ from a hazardous material?

A. First, there are many materials that are listed in both the HM Table and Hazardous Substances Appendix. However, in order to be considered a hazardous substance (even if it's listed in the Appendix), the weight of the substance in one package must equal or exceed the reportable quantity (RQ) listed for that material. If it does not equal/ exceed the RQ amount, but is listed in the HM Table, the material remains regulated as an HM, but not as a hazardous substance Second, there are some materials that are listed solely in either the HM Table or Hazardous Substance Appendix. If the material is listed in the HM Table alone, it will only be regulated as an HM. If the material is listed only in the Appendix, it will become regulated as a hazardous substance when the R requirements have been met. Until it meets the RQ amount, the material will not be regulated for transportation as either a hazardous substance or HM.

Q. What is the particular danger in trying to extinguish a fire that involves a flammable liquid using a stream of water?

A. Flammable liquids float on top of water. Using a stream of water will spread the burning liquid and fire.

Q. What type of safety equipment should be used in loading and unloading acids?

A. For acids or other caustic or corrosive chemicals, a face shield, rubber gauntlets, complete rubberized suit, and rubber boots and hat should be worn. For weak acids such as carbolic, phosphoric and acetic, goggles and gloves are generally considered adequate Specific procedures are set forth in the Safety Data Sheet warning labels

Q. What is the purpose of "fusible links"?

A. Fusible links or elements are heat-activated devices installed in the cable lines, or tubing (in the case of hydraulically or air- controlled internal valves) of tank trailers. They are designed to melt at a temperature no greater than 121° C (250° F) in case of fire and, when melted, trigger the internal valves to close automatically.

Q. If fire ignites near the point where flammable liquids are being unloaded from a cargo tank, what should the professional driver do?

A. If fire ignites near a cargo tank's unloading point, the professional driver should cut off the flow of product and remove the source of fuel by use of a shut-off mechanism or remote control device.

Q. What are the first steps in administering first aid to anyone who may have been overcome by gas?

A. If it appears someone has been overcome by gas, the first aid provider should take steps to first prevent him/herself from inhaling the gas; then ventilate the area (open doors and windows); remove everyone from the area of gas exposure; and, seek emergency medical assistance.

Q. What should professional drivers do if they learn that their unit is leaking liquid HM?

A. If liquid HM are leaking, the professional driver should try to stop in a safe place, off the road, as soon as possible and make every effort to keep the leakage from reaching sewers. If the leak is such that it cannot be stopped, the driver should dig a ditch and attempt to dike the liquid, if possible and safe to do so.

Q. If there is spillage on the ground around the tank truck after loading or unloading it, what must be done before the vehicle is driven away?

A. If there is overflow or spillage on the ground around the tank truck, and that overflow/spillage involves a hazardous material, the driver must check the emergency instructions for guidance. The driver should try to contain the spill, if possible, and only if properly trained in emergency response under all applicable HMR and OSHA requirements. He/she must notify the company of the product and quantity spilled, as a U.S. DOT incident report must be completed. He/she should also notify the user of the property and the local authorities, and be sure that all such notifications are made pursuant to law.

Q. What checks should the driver of a cargo tank vehicle make before starting to unload?

A. In addition to all normal checks before unloading, the driver should be certain that the unloading line on the tank truck vehicle is connected to the proper fill-pipe of the particular storage tank to be filled. The driver should also be sure that the storage tank has sufficient capacity to accept the quantity of cargo to be unloaded.

Q. What is the penalty for disregarding grade crossing safety rules?

A. In addition to any other penalties under traffic laws, the driver will be disqualified from operating a CMV for 60 days for a first conviction.

Q. Is there a requirement for an identification number or other special identification on a vehicle transporting an elevated temperature material?

A. In many cases, the UN identification number 3257 will be displayed when a vehicle is transporting an elevated temperature material. If the number is displayed on the square-on-point marking, the word "HOT" may also appear in the upper portion of the marking. If the vehicle is transporting "molten aluminum" or " molten sulfur," those words must be displayed on the vehicle as applicable.

Q. What requirements govern the location of HM shipping papers during transport?

A. It is a basic requirement that HM shipping papers must be readily available for inspection by the authorities in case of an emergency. The following requirements also apply: 1. HM shipping papers must be within the driver's reach when restrained by a safety belt, or they must be in a pouch attached to the driver's door. 2. When the driver is away from the vehicle, the HM shipping papers must be in a pouch on the driver's door, or on the driver's seat. 3. HM shipping papers must be kept separate from all other papers, or they must be: (a) on top of all other papers being carried; or, (b) distinctively tabbed to facilitate locating them readily. [See 49 CFR $ 177,817; 49 CFR $ 172.200 et seq.]

Q. What information on shipping documents must a driver check before transporting a load of hazardous materials in a tank vehicle?

A. It is a violation of the regulations for a carrier to accept hazmat that is not properly described on the shipping papers. Since the driver is the carrier's "agent" at the loading site, the driver must check information (on shipping documents) such as: U.N. identification number, proper commodity description, hazard classifications - flammable liquid, corrosive, etc., - packing group, and total quantity by weight or volume and the number and type of packages/drums.

Q. What is the danger associated with nitrogen blankets?

A. Nitrogen displaces oxygen; therefore, brief exposure to a concentrated atmosphere of nitrogen can render someone unconscious almost instantly. Nitrogen cannot be seen or smelled. It can only be detected by testing.

Q. What special information on the shipping paper will help the driver identify HM shipments?

A. Shipping papers must designate HM in one of three ways: 1. The HM may be listed first, before any non-HM; 2. The HM may be entered in a color that contrasts with non-HM entries; or, 3. The HM may be designated by an "x" located in a column captioned "HM". In addition, the following information is required by the U.S. DOT to be on the shipping paper in this order to help identify HM loads: 1. The identification number prescribed for the HM including the prefix UN or NA (North America), as specified 2. The proper shipping name of the commodity as specified in the Table of Hazardous Materials 3. The numerical class of the HM such as (3) for "Flammable Liquid," (8) for "Corrosive Material," and (S.1) for "Oxidizer," etc. 4. The packing group of the HM, shown in Roman numerals, such as PGI, PGII, and PGII S. The shipper's certification indicating that the shipment is in compliance with the Hazardous Materials Regulations

Q. How can a fire at the open manhole of a cargo tank be extinguished?

A. Simply closing the manhole cover will often extinguish the fire at the manhole opening of a cargo tank

Q. What metric measurements will be most important to drivers in assuring compliance with the Hazardous Materials Regulations?

A. Some measurements affect placarding requirements or define hazard classes such as those listed below showing the metric units and the U.S. equivalent: 1. 454 kilograms (1,001 pounds) - the weight below which placarding is not required for Table 2 hazardous materials 2. 60.5° C (141° F) - the flashpoint that marks the upper limit for flammable liquids under the regulations 3. 60.5° C (141° F) and 93° C (200° F) - the flashpoints, above and below which a liquid is classified as a combustible liquid under the regulation 4. 37.8° C (100° F) and 60.5° C (141° F) - the flashpoints, above and below which a flammable liquid, such as diesel fuel and fuel oil, may be reclassified as a combustible liquid for domestic transportation only 5. 450 liters (119 gallons) - the volume above which a packaging is deemed to be a bulk packaging for liquids 6. 400 kg (882 pounds) - the weight capacity above which a packaging is deemed to be a bulk packaging for solids 7. 454 kg (1,001 pounds) - the weight capacity above which a packaging is deemed to be a bulk packaging for gases 8. 4,000 kg (8,820 pounds) - the weight of one commodity in non-bulk packaging for which identification numbers are to be displayed on a transport vehicle

Q. Why should the driver of a cargo tank vehicle keep the brakes applied during a normal traffic stop?

A. Stopping the vehicle causes the liquid cargo to move back and forth in the tank. If the driver releases the brakes, the movement of the liquid may be sufficient to cause the vehicle to roll back and forth and strike a vehicle behind or in front of the truck

Q. Why is it particularly important to avoid any sudden steering maneuvers when driving a cargo tank vehicle?

A. Sudden turning movements cause "liquid surge." As the contents of the cargo tank move from side to side, they can develop sufficient force to cause the vehicle to overturn.

Q. Other than flashpoint, how does temperature apply to the classification of HM?

A. Temperature may result in a material transported in a bulk packaging being classed as an "elevated temperature material" when that material is: 1. A liquid transported at a temperature at or above 100° C (212° F) 2. A liquid with a flashpoint at or above 37.8° C (100° F) that is intentionally heated and transported at or above its flashpoint 3. A solid transported at or above 240° C(464°F)

Q. Are there any regulations governing smoking by drivers while driving?

A. The FMCSRs prohibit smoking within 25 feet of a vehicle transporting explosives, flammable materials (liquids, solids, gases). or oxidizers. In addition, the driver of an empty tank vehicle is prohibited from smoking if the vehicle is placarded for the transportation of flammable liquids or flammable gases

Q. Is there any way for a driver to know how to handle a specific HM in case of fire?

A. The FMCSRs require that any vehicle transporting HM must have emergency instructions on board for all HM in the cargo, These instructions must cover what to do in case of fire. In any event, the driver should follow company policy with respect to a hazardous material emergency and should take no action that endangers his/her personal safety.

Q. Under what circumstances might a driver have more than one emergency telephone number when transporting HM?

A. The HM Regulations provide that an emergency telephone number must be provided for each HM in a shipment or load, unless contacting one number provides information about all of the HM in a load. Several numbers might be provided for sources of assistance for several different HM. Each number must be shown in association with the proper shipping name of the HM for which it is the source of information.

Q. Is there a way to obtain emergency information over the phone without knowing the Chemtrec telephone number?

A. The HM Regulations require that an emergency telephone number be on the shipping paper and must be identifiable as the emergency telephone number. The number must be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, The number shown may be that of the shipper or of an outside agency which is able to provide the required emergency information. See Section 172.604 of the HM Regulations for HM that are exempt from the emergency response telephone number requirement.

Q. What is required with respect to "bonding" tank trucks?

A. The Hazardous Materials Regulations require that an electrical bond wire be used during the filling/loading of a tank truck because the bond wire effectively grounds the vehicle during filling to prevent the build-up of static charges. A "drag chain" is not classified as an effective grounding device for this purpose.

Q. When must a Specification Cargo Tank be used?

A. The Hazardous Materials Regulations require that carriers must use Specification Cargo Tanks on most interstate or intrastate shipments of HM. Combustible liquids and Class 9 materials are allowed to be transported in non-specification tanks in domestic transportation.

Q. What special checks of a tank vehicle transporting HM must be made as a part of the driver's pre-trip inspection?

A. The driver must be sure that all valves and unloading lines are securely closed and that manholes are closed to prevent the loss of cargo. The driver should also check for any signs of leakage elsewhere on the vehicle.

Q. Of what value is the Specification Plate to the driver?

A. The driver must check the Specification Plate to make certain that the tank is the type authorized to hold that specific HM to be loaded. If an incompatible material is loaded into a cargo tank, a hazardous situation may result.

Q. What are the hazard classes designated by the HMRs?

A. To ensure that U.S. HM Regulations are consistent with the HM regulations applicable to international transportation, PHMSA has phased-in the use of these Class and Division numbers: Name Class Numbered Class/Div Explosives 1.1 1.1 Explosives 1.2 1.2 Explosives 1.3 1.3 Explosives 1.4 1.4 Explosives 1.5 1.5 Explosives 1.6 1.6 Flammable Gas 2.1 Non-flammable Gas 2.2 Poison Gas 2.3 Flammable Liquid 3.0 Flammable Solid 4.1 Spontaneously Combustible 4.2 Dangerous When Wet 4.3 Oxidizer 5.1 Organic Peroxide 5.2 Poisonous Material 6.1 Etiologic Agents/Infectious Substances 6.2 Radioactive Material 7 Corrosive Material 8 Miscellaneous HM 9 Limited Quantity or ORM-D (Consumer Commodity) ORM-D

Q. What are the "Do's and Don'ts" that will help prevent gas poisoning?

A. To help prevent gas poisoning, one should: 1. Not knowingly breathe gas, even for a short time 2. Protect oneself with a mask 3. Know that a handkerchief is not a gas mask 4. Not turn a motor vehicle engine on in a closed garage 5. Know the location of the gas meter; and not obstruct or use it as a shelf 6. Never ignore apparent odor; ventilate and get advice from the gas company 7. Not let liquid boil over and extinguish all or part of a gas flame 8. Use flashlight and soap suds to locate gas leaks 9. Not use rigid metal tubing to connect gas heaters, etc.: use only high grade flexible tubing and inspect frequently 10. Not leave a gas flame burning in a room where anyone is sleeping 11. Use only properly installed equipment of a type approved by the American Gas Association Testing Laboratories

Q. What is the first aid treatment for chemical burns of the eye?

A. To treat chemical burns of the eye, one should: 1. For acid burns. Wash face, eyelid and eye continuously with cool running water for 15 minutes; cover eye with dry dressing; do not rub eye; and, get medical aid immediately 2. For alkali burns, flush face, eyelid and eye continuously and thoroughly with cool running water for 30 minutes; remove loose particles with sterile gauze; do not irrigate with soda solution; cover with dry compress; and, get medical aid immediately 3. If only one eye is affected, flush that eye outward from the victim's nose to minimize the risk of getting the chemical into the uninjured eye

Q. What is the first aid treatment for chemical burns of the body?

A. To treat chemical burns, one should wash away the chemical completely with large quantities of running water for no less than 15 minutes. If the first aid directions for treating the specific type of chemical burn are available on a label, they should be followed. After removing the chemical, the responder should give first aid just as for any similar burn.

Q. What penalty can be levied for not reporting a spill into waterways?

A. Under Federal law, the maximum penalty is $75,000 per day. Additionally, states and municipalities may levy separate fines.

Q. What classes of HM require placarding for any quantity on a vehicle?

A. Under the current regulations, placarding is required for any quantity of: 1. Division 1.1,1.2 and 1.3 Explosives 2. Division 2.3 Poison Gases 3. Division 4.3 Flammable Solids, Dangerous When Wet 4. Division 5.2 Organic Peroxide Type B, liquid or solid, temperature controlled 5. Division 6.1 Poison - Inhalation Hazards 6. Radioactive Materials displaying the Radioactive Yellow III label

Q. What are the principal precautions that must be taken around a loading rack?

A. When around a loading rack, a driver should make sure that: 1. His/her vehicle's engine is off 2. His/her vehicle is secured against movement 3. There is no smoking or open flames or lights 4. Electronic devices, such as cell phones, CB radios, and navigation systems are turned off.

Q. What special care must be taken by the driver when handling HM?

A. When handling HM, the driver should: 1. Make certain there is no smoking while loading/unloading HM 2. Do not drop, jar or bump packages or containers 3. Protect the HM from moisture 4. Protect the HM from extreme heat 5. Avoid damage to containers of HM when using bailing hooks, other tools and forklifts 6. Heed warning signs such as: "This End Down" or "This Side Up" and the orientation Arrows (^^) 7. Take special care to ensure that the HM will be secured against movement, will not tip over, and/or will not be damaged by falling freight during transit 8. Always try to load the HM so that the labels are visible to anyone entering cargo space so that anyone handling such freight after the driver will be able to recognize the nature of the cargo

Q. Is there any place where information can be obtained on dealing with an emergency involving HM or fuel spills?

A. Yes, the American Chemistry Council has created the Chemical Transportation Emergency Center known as Chemtrec to obtain information on dealing with an emergency involving HM or fuel spills. Chemtree's website is WWW.Chemtrec.com. Several private contractors specialize in providing HM incident compliance assistance. For example, The Spill Center may be reached at (978) 568-1922 or WWw.spillcenter.com.

Q. Are there federal regulations governing cylinders and other containers in which hazardous materials are transported?

A. Yes. In addition to performance testing requirements for most non-bulk packaging and intermediate bulk containers, the HM Regulations provide detailed specifications for the construction of cylinders and bulk containers, such as cargo tanks, as well as loading requirements to ensure cylinders are not damaged during transport.

Q. Are there any special package markings required to identify shipments of a hazardous substance?

A. Yes. The HM Regulations require that on non-bulk packages only, the letters "RQ" appear on the package of hazardous substance shipments in association with the proper shipping name.

Q. Are there any special shipping paper notations required to identify a hazardous substance?

A. Yes. The HM Regulations require that the letters "RQ" appear on the shipping paper either before or after the basic description of the material substance. When there is a column on the shipping paper captioned "HM", the "RQ" designation can appear in that column in place of the required "X". Examples: 1. RQ, UN2076 Cresols, 6.1, Il 2. UN3077. Environmentally Hazardous substance, solid, n.o.s., 9, IlI (adipic acid), RQ

Q. Do the Hazardous Materials Regulations require motor carriers and drivers to have information available in case of an emergency involving HM?

A. Yes. The HM Regulations require the availability of emergency response information on vehicles transporting HM and at every facility at which the HM are received, stored or handled during transportation. Note: these requirements do not apply to HM that are exempt from the shipping paper requirements (ORM-D. limited quantities). [See 49 CFR $ 172.600].

Q. What are the requirements for multiple labeling and placarding?

The most recent, significant changes to the HM Regulations are outlined as follows: 1. Regarding multiple labeling: a. Materials which require multiple labels are identified in section 172.101 (HM Table), and Column 6 (Labels Required) lists labeling requirements for the material identified in Column 2 (Proper Shipping Names) 2. Regarding multiple placarding: a. Materials subject to the "Poison Inhalation Hazard" shipping paper description should be placarded: Poison Inhalation Hazard or Poison Gas, plus placards required in Section 172.504 (any amount) b. Fissile or low specific activity uranium hexafuoride should be placarded: Radioactive plus Corrosive (if 454 kg or more) or Radioactive (if less than 454kg) c. Materials which have a subsidiary hazard of being dangerous when wet should be placarded: Dangerous When Wet plus placards required in Section 172.504 (any amount).