How many hazard classes are defined by the DOT?

The Department of Transportation (DOT) defines nine distinct hazard classes for the transportation of hazardous materials. Each class is designed to categorize materials based on the specific type of danger they pose during transportation, ensuring that appropriate precautions and measures are taken to manage any risks associated with those materials.

These nine hazard classes are:

1. Explosives

2. Gases (compressed, liquefied, or dissolved under pressure)

3. Flammable liquids

4. Flammable solids

5. Oxidizers and organic peroxides

6. Toxic materials and infectious substances

7. Radioactive materials

8. Corrosive substances

9. Miscellaneous hazardous materials

Understanding these classes helps professionals identify the nature of the hazards presented and implement safety protocols during transport, storage, and handling of these materials. This classification system is crucial for ensuring public safety and environmental protection.