Module 1: Regulations - International Association of Fire Fighters

Student Text IAFF Training for Hazardous Materials: Technician©
U. S. Department of
Transportation (DOT)
Hazard Identification System
The U. S. DOT’s Hazardous Materials Transportation
Administration regulates over 1,400 hazardous materials.
The DOT requires labels on small containers and placards
on tanks and trailers. These placards and labels indicate the
nature of the hazard.
Classification used for placards and labels is based on an
International Classification System. Materials are described
using hazard class numbers that are found in the
bottom corner of a DOT placard or label. The DOT numbering
system has no relationship to the NFPA or HMIS
numbering systems!
To facilitate handling a hazardous material incident, placards
may show a 4-digit identification number. This number
comes from the Hazardous Materials Table in the DOT
regulations, 49 CFR 172.101. This ID number can be
found on shipping papers, the hazardous waste manifest,
and hazardous waste markers. Once the 4-digit number is
obtained, the North American Emergency Response Guidebook
can be consulted. This book outlines recommended
methods and precautions for responding to a release of each
hazardous materials with a 4-digit ID number.
Material Safety Data Sheets
Chemical manufacturers and importers are required to
obtain or develop Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs)
and supply them to the employer.
The employer is required to have MSDSs available for all
hazardous chemicals used in the work place and must make
them available to all employees during all work shifts.
Module 1: Regulations 1-91