Shipping dangerous goods by ground is a complex process that requires strict adherence to federal regulations by the hazmat employee. The transportation of these materials involves unique risks that can pose significant threats to public safety and the environment. The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) has established an extensive range of regulations under Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR) to govern the classification, packaging, handling, and transportation of hazardous materials by ground.
The Hazardous Materials Safety Administration plays a crucial role in overseeing these regulations, ensuring that shippers and carriers comply with safety standards set forth under the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act and related regulations.
This blog marks the beginning of our comprehensive series on the guidelines for shipping dangerous goods, aimed at providing you with detailed insights and practical advice. In this inaugural post, we will focus on the guidelines for shipping dangerous goods by ground. Make sure you check out the upcoming parts of this series, where we will review the guidelines for shipping hazardous materials by air and vessel, hazmat shipping in limited quantities, and more.
This 49 CFR Shipping step by step compliance process is full of valuable information to correctly prepare hazardous materials shipments for ground transport. Use as a reference on the job. The following is a step-by-step process for preparing fully regulated shipments. Use this process, along with the content of your 49 CFR training and the 49 CFR Hazardous Materials Regulations, to ensure that all of the applicable requirements for classification, identification, packing, marking, labeling, and documentation are met. Whether you’re considering 49 CFR Shipping by Ground Online Hazmat Training for the first time, or simply need to brush up your skills- use this list as a starting point.
Please note: This guidance is NOT meant to replace the regulations. Be sure to check regulatory references to determine if they affect your shipment.
The 12 Key Steps in 49 CFR Hazardous Materials Regulations Shipping by Ground Online Hazmat Training
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Determine if the substance is CLASSIFIED as a hazardous material in transportation. Most shippers will use section 14 on the material’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS). If the material is a hazardous material, the UN/ID Number, and proper shipping name most likely will be found there. The description must accurately reflect the hazardous materials contained within the shipment. It may also be provided by the manufacturer’s shipping department.
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If the information is not listed on an SDS or in the shipping system, the hazard class/division must be determined by comparing the physical and chemical characteristics of the materials with the classification criteria found in 49 CFR 173 Subpart D.
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If the information on the physical and chemical characteristics of the material is not available, testing must be performed to determine the hazard class(es).
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Section 14 may also provide information about whether the material is a HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE. Check 49 CFR 172.101 Appendix A to see if the material or its components are listed. The need to identify and classify hazardous substances properly is crucial. If the material is being shipped at a quantity equal or above the listed RQ, the material is a hazardous substance and must be identified as such on the package and hazmat shipping paper . If the material is classified as hazardous waste, there are specific prescribed requirements for preparing a hazardous waste manifest.
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Check the Hazardous Materials Table 49 CFR 172.101 for the UN/ID NUMBER AND PROPER SHIPPING NAME. If there is a “G” in column 1, the technical name must supplemented and be shown in parenthesis with the proper shipping name. (49 CFR 172.101(b)(4))
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Some print versions of the 49 CFR provide a Numerical “Cross-Reference” table to use if only the UN/ID number for the material is provided. Locations for this table vary so be sure to check with the publisher of your book for its location.
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- Note the PRIMARY AND SUBSIDIARY HAZARD CLASSES/DIVISIONS (Column 6) and PACKING GROUP (Column 5) of the material. If more than one packing group is listed, check the SDS to determine which packing group to apply.
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Determine if the material is permitted to be transported by GROUND in non-bulk packaging. Look at Column 8B. If the word “NONE“ appears in the column, the material must not be shipped.
- Read all SPECIAL PROVISIONS listed in Column 7. Special provisions are found in 49 CFR 172.102.
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If the material is not forbidden for transport in non-bulk packaging, go to the PACKING AUTHORIZATION listed in Column 8B. To find the authorization, the 3-digit number is preceded by “173.”. If “201” is listed in Column 8B, the packaging authorization can be found in “173.201″.
- Ensure the packaging complies with the general requirements for packaging in 173.24 and 173.24a and the specific provisions found in the packaging authorization.
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Prepare the PACKAGING following the packaging authorization and the manufacturer’s closure instructions.
- MARK AND LABEL the package as required. (49 CFR 172 Subparts D & E)
- If preparing an OVERPACK, make sure to:
- Check 49 CFR 177.848 for segregation requirements,
- Duplicate all labels and markings on the outside of the overpack,
- Mark the outside of the overpack with the OVERPACK marking, and
- Add the overpack identification mark if required.
- Complete the HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SHIPPING PAPER. (49 CFR 172, Subpart C) Shipping papers include regulatory and essential information for ensuring proper identification and classification of hazardous materials. The shipping description provides crucial information for handling, storage and emergency response.
- Provide appropriate EMERGENCY RESPONSE INFORMATION. (49 CFR 172, Subpart G)
Finally, offer PLACARDS to the trucking company as required by 49 CFR 172 Subpart F.
The Unique Challenges Associated with Hazardous Materials Shipping by Ground
Varied Environmental and Traffic Conditions
Unlike air or sea transport, ground transport involves navigating diverse environmental conditions including variable weather, traffic congestion, and road hazards. Moreover, roads can be affected by rain, snow, ice, or extreme heat, all of which can increase the risk of hazmat incidents.
Handling and Storage
Frequent stops and starts during road transport can increase the risk of material shifting, leaks, or spills. Loading and unloading operations at multiple stops can also present additional risks.
Security Concerns
Ground transport is more vulnerable to theft and tampering due to its accessibility and the need for rest stops. Ensuring the security of hazardous materials during these stops can be a challenge.
Emergency Response
In the event of an accident or spill, emergency response might have to be coordinated across potentially remote or densely populated areas, which can delay response times.
Importance of Lithium Batteries Training for Hazmat Employees Involved in Hazmat Shipping by Ground
Lithium cells and batteries are classified as Class 9 hazardous materials by the US Department of Transportation (DOT), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the international Air Transport Association (IATA), and the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
The energy stored in lithium batteries can, under certain conditions, cause them to overheat and catch fire, which can pose significant risks during ground transportation. Recognizing this danger, regulatory bodies have established stringent guidelines for the classification, packaging, marking and labeling, shipping papers, placarding, and shipping of lithium batteries.
While general hazardous materials training covers lithium battery regulations, the unique risks associated with these batteries and the fact that they are frequently shipped across the world necessitate specialized training. Proper lithium batteries training can make sure that the personnel handling lithium batteries are well-versed in the regulatory requirements, specific safety protocols, and best practices, which can significantly reduce the risk of accidents during transportation.
Choose Our Online Hazmat Training Courses for 49 CFR Hazardous Materials Training Requirements Shipping by Ground Training
The importance of training for hazmat employees to ensure compliance with regulations cannot be overstated. The hazardous materials training requirements mandated by the Department of Transportation outline necessary training for employees handling hazardous materials. Hazmat University offers the most updated and comprehensive range of online training courses for hazmat employees involved in the transportation of hazardous materials by ground. Our courses are designed to be fully compliant with 49 CFR regulations and cover all aspects of hazmat shipping by ground.
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Learn More with Hazmat University
In the world of Dangerous Goods Shipping, compliance is king. If you feel intimidated at first- don’t be! Our team of veteran Dangerous Goods Shipping professionals are here to guide you in our easy-to-access series of hazmat training courses. Consider 49 CFR Shipping by Ground Online Hazmat Training with us today, and get ready to be competent, be confident, and be compliant. Contact us today to get started.
Originally Posted: November 5, 2021 | Updated: August 5, 2024
