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Overview

The Hazardous Transportation Act (HMTA) was published in 1975.  Its primary objective is to provide adequate protection against the risks to life and property inherent in the transportation of hazardous material in commerce by improving the regulatory and enforcement authority of the Secretary of Transportation.  A hazardous material, as defined by the Secretary of Transportation is, any “particular quantity or form” of a material that “may pose an unreasonable risk to health and safety or property.”

Key Provisions of the Hazardous Materials Transporation Act

Hazardous materials regulations are subdivided by function into four basic areas:

• Procedures and/or Policies: 49 CFR Parts 101, 106, and 107
• Material Designations: 49 CFR Part 172
• Packaging Requirements: 49 CFR Parts 173, 178, 179, and 180
• Operational Rules: 49 CFR Parts 171, 173, 174, 175, 176, and 177

For More Information

• 40 CFR 110, Discharge of Oil
• 40 CFR 116, Designation of Hazardous Substances
• Transporting Hazardous Materials - Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
• Department of Transportation's Office of Hazardous Materials Safety