What does 49 CFR 177.834 (c) state about smoking during the loading or unloading of hazardous materials?

The regulation 49 CFR 177.834 (c) explicitly prohibits smoking during the loading or unloading of hazardous materials. This restriction is in place because smoking poses a significant safety risk when handling materials that are potentially flammable or have the capacity to cause explosions or other hazards. The goal of this regulation is to ensure the safety of workers, emergency responders, and the public by minimizing the risk of ignition or chemical reactions that could result from an open flame or spark produced by smoking.

Each of the other options suggests scenarios where smoking might be allowed, but none align with the stringent safety measures outlined in the regulation. In situations involving hazardous materials, maintaining a completely smoke-free environment is crucial to mitigate risks associated with these dangerous substances.