Hazardous Materials and Emergency Response
What this domain tests
The Hazardous Materials and Emergency Response domain tests placarding, shipping papers, parking and smoking rules, and initial response to a spill, leak, or fire. A general knowledge candidate needs the basics; the HM endorsement adds depth.
Core rules
- Hazardous materials are grouped into hazard classes; placards communicate the primary risk to emergency responders.
- Table 1 materials require placards regardless of quantity; Table 2 materials generally require placards at 1,001 pounds aggregate gross weight or more.
- Carry shipping papers within reach, and know the emergency response information and the emergency response telephone number.
- Do not smoke or carry smoking materials near a placarded vehicle; park away from people, bridges, tunnels, and fire sources.
- If a leak or fire occurs, stop safely, keep people away, call 911, and use the shipping papers and Emergency Response Guidebook to inform responders.
Worked example
A vehicle carries 1,200 pounds of a Table 2 flammable liquid. Because the aggregate gross weight is at least 1,001 pounds, the vehicle must be placarded. If it carried only 800 pounds, placarding would generally not be required for that Table 2 material. The reasoning: the 1,001-pound threshold aggregates Table 2 hazardous materials; Table 1 materials are placarded at any amount.
Traps
Placarding every small package; storing shipping papers out of reach; smoking near an empty but placarded tank; and trying to clean up a spill without protective equipment or responder guidance.