According to 49 CFR, IATA, and IMDG a hazardous material or dangerous goods is defined as a substance or material that has been determined to be capable of posing an unreasonable risk to health, safety, property, and security when transported in commerce. And most people may not realize it, however the world runs on hazardous materials, and their safe transportation via ground, air, and/or ocean is critically important. Therefore hazmat employees that handle different stages of the hazardous material shipping process must have appropriate hazmat training to mitigate the risk of accidents.
Why Hazmat Training Matters?
By definition, the handling and transportation of hazardous materials presents a threat to human safety, health, environment, and property. Accidental spills of flammable, corrosive, or toxic chemicals, the release of poisonous gases, exposure to radioactive materials, fiery crashes involving explosives and other volatile substances, and other disasters can cause extensive devastation.
Therefore there are stringent federal and international laws related to ground, air, or ocean transport of hazardous materials that must be complied with. These regulations include mandatory hazmat training for all the employees involved in their handling and shipping.
Common examples of hazmat that are a part of our everyday life include:
- Hospital supplies such as oxygen
- Freon for air conditioners
- Airbags in vehicles
- Hand sanitizers
- Propane for BBQ
- Gasoline
- Muriatic acid
- Turpentine
- Acetone
- Perfumes
- And construction materials such as paints, rust removers, acetylene, and adhesives.
Hazmat Training: Common Hazardous Materials Involved in Accidents
A number of common hazardous materials touch our lives in different ways, and their safe transportation requires appropriate hazmat training for those involved in the shipping process.
Carbon Dioxide
This odorless, colorless gas in refrigerated form is used for frozen foods as part of their transportation to the marketplace. However CO2 vapor exposure can cause asphyxiation or dizziness, while direct skin contact with it can result in severe burns.
Chlorine
Firstly this is a volatile and reactive material, which can be highly dangerous especially in high-temperature environments. However it is a crucial element used in the production of a number of consumer and industrial goods. Chlorine chemistry helps keep drinking water and swimming pools safe. And it is used to manufacture household disinfectants, used healthcare, energy, and the environment.
Argon
This refrigerated liquid material is typically used in welding as well as in the manufacture of fluorescent lighting. Argon must be transported in upright cylinders. Its accidental inhalation can cause serious harm. Hazmat training for those involved in its transportation is vital.
Sulfuric Acid
Commonly called “battery acid,” this chemical is extensively used in the production of lead-acid batteries, phosphate fertilizers, fiber production, paints and dyes, and metal processes. Exposure to this extremely corrosive material can cause severe health damage or death.
Gasoline
Gasoline is not only highly flammable, but it also has the potential to evaporate easily and can be explosive in the air. Therefore storage and shipping of this hazardous material should be done in approved packaging, and it must be kept away from ignition sources.
Hazmat Training is Crucial For Safety And Compliance
Hazmat University offers comprehensive and accurate online hazmat training courses that are designed to mitigate risk and meet regulatory compliance requirements. These courses will help hazmat employees to handle and transport hazardous materials in accordance with federal law and international regulations.
Be Confident ○ Be Competent ○ Be Compliant.
To place your order for a suitable hazmat training course, call us at (844) 329-5618 or visit us online today.
