DOT Hazmat - Placarding

The DOT requires marking, labeling, and placarding of hazardous materials being transported in commerce to, from, or within the U.S. The term “placarding” refers to the placement of large durable versions of hazard labels on transport vehicles, bulk packages, freight containers, unit load devices, and rail cars. The purpose of marking, labeling, and placarding is to communicate the potential dangers of hazardous materials. Placards are especially important to emergency responders, who use this information to initiate protective actions after an incident or accidental release.

• Define the terms “hazardous material,” “packaging,” “package,” “bulk” packaging, and “non-bulk” packaging, as defined in the Hazardous Material Regulations (HMR) • Identify the hazmat packaging employees who must comply with the HMR • Identify markings, labels, and placards on hazardous material shipments • Describe placards that are prohibited, including the exceptions that are allowed • Describe general placarding requirements for hazardous material shipments to, from, and within the U.S., including how to use the placarding tables in the HMR, and placarding provisions and exceptions