What is the role of the Department of Transportation (DOT) in HAZMAT transportation?

The Department of Transportation (DOT) plays a critical role in establishing regulations for the safe transportation of hazardous materials. This includes creating guidelines that ensure safe handling, packaging, labeling, and documentation throughout the transportation process. These regulations are designed to minimize risks to the public, the environment, and those involved in the transport of hazardous materials.

The DOT's involvement ensures that there is a consistent standard that carriers, shippers, and handlers must follow. This includes compliance with the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) found in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, which details safety protocols and responsibilities. By establishing these regulations, the DOT aims to prevent accidents and incidents that could arise from improper transport of hazardous materials, thereby enhancing safety across the transportation network.