Inspection, Reporting, and Recordkeeping
Drivers must inspect their vehicles and paperwork before, during, and after trips. Pre-trip inspection includes checking for leaks, damaged packages, proper placards, and that shipping papers are present and correct. During the trip, re-check the load at stops. Reporting requirements: report any hazmat incident (spill, leak, fire, injury) to authorities; some incidents require a written report to DOT. Recordkeeping: shipping papers must be kept for a period (generally two years for hazmat shippers, and carriers retain copies), and drivers must retain inspection reports and logs. The candidate must know that placards must be removed when the vehicle no longer carries the material, and that shipping papers must be kept accessible. Traps: questions claim records can be discarded immediately (no), or that placards stay on after unloading (no-remove or cover them). Also know that DPS/TxDOT and FMCSA may inspect. Rule of thumb: if it's hazmat, keep the paper trail-two years is the common retention period. Worked example: After delivering a placarded load, the driver must remove or cover the placards before driving away empty; leaving them on misrepresents the load and violates the rules.