Any substance or material that is considered to have the capability to cause an unreasonable risk to human health or safety or the environment when transported in commerce, used incorrectly, or if not properly stored or contained is considered a hazardous material.

Hazardous materials are vital to the nation’s economy, as we all depend on these materials to heat our homes, provide fuel for our transportation system, and deliver chemicals to enhance food production and drugs to diagnose and treat illnesses. Over 3.1 billion tons of hazardous materials are shipped annually, equaling 28 percent of all ton miles of annual freight.

America depends on pipelines to safely move and receive vast quantities of critical energy supplies. In PHMSA regulatory terms a pipeline includes all parts of a physical facility through which gas, hazardous liquid or carbon dioxide moves in transportation. The make up of a pipeline includes but is not limited to: line pipe, valves and other appurtenances that are attached to the pipe; pumping and/or compressor units and associated fabricated units; metering, regulating, and delivery stations; holders and fabricated assemblies; and breakout tanks.

Over 97 percent of the nation’s transportation energy needs are met by petroleum products, and 64 percent of these products are moved through America’s pipeline network.