Mistakes can happen when employees are not properly trained to identify, package, and communicate the hazard of the materials shipped. Frequently missed in some training programs are employees that only rarely ship hazmats, such as salesmen that ship samples, engineers who are solving customer problems, nurses that package infectious waste, or utility personnel that are filling in for shipping and receiving staff. Table 1 materials transported non-bulk or bulk must always be placarded, in any amount. Table 2 non-bulk containers are required to be placarded when the aggregate weight is at least 1001 pounds. Placarded loads require a driver with a commercial driver's license.
Some shippers assume there are no requirements for small shipments of hazardous materials.
To qualify for this partial relief, the shipper must secure all inner containers, ensure the package can withstand a six-foot drop, and provide securement and cushioning. Some shippers assume that combustible liquids are exempt from all DOT requirements. When the flash point of a material is above 100 degrees F, it may be reclassified in the U.S. as combustible if it does not meet any other DOT hazard class. This relief is not granted for bulk, air, or international shipments. Some shippers assume that limited quantities are exempt from all DOT requirements.