Hazardous Materials and Tanker Cargo Documentation
Tanker work and hazardous materials overlap constantly, and the exam tests the paperwork and placard chain that must be correct before the wheels turn.
The shipping paper
It must show the proper shipping name, hazard class or division, UN/NA identification number, packing group, total quantity, and the number and type of packages. It also carries an emergency response telephone number and the shipper's certification. While driving, the paper must be within reach and visible in the cab, not buried in a pocket or the sleeper.
Emergency response information
The shipper must provide emergency response information; the Emergency Response Guidebook is the standard reference for initial isolation and protective action. Know how to look up a material by its four-digit identification number.
Placards
- A cargo tank carrying hazardous material in bulk must be placarded for any quantity - the 1,001-pound aggregate rule applies to non-bulk packages, not to tanks.
- Placards must agree with the shipping paper; if they do not match, do not move until corrected.
- Place placards on front, rear, and both sides for the required class.
Endorsements
The tanker endorsement (N) covers the tank; the hazardous materials endorsement (H) is separately required for placarded loads and involves a TSA security threat assessment. Driving a placarded load without H is a disqualifying violation.
Worked example
A tanker is loaded with 2,500 gallons of gasoline. Placarding is required because it is a bulk package, not because the weight passes 1,001 pounds. The shipping paper must read Gasoline, 3, UN1203, PG II, with total quantity, and the FLAMMABLE placard must match on all four sides.
Traps that cost marks
- Applying the 1,001-pound rule to a cargo tank.
- Assuming a phone number satisfies the rule when no one answers it.