Hazmat Driver Training Requirements
Why would someone want to work around poison, corrosive chemicals, radioactive materials and other items that could hurt or kill them?
There are two big reasons, starting with the fact that the world needs skilled drivers of trucks and tankers containing hazardous cargo. There are plenty of CDL driver jobs, but high demand for skilled hazmat truck driving jobs.
Sometimes, manufacturers need chemicals for raw materials. The petroleum industry needs gas and oil products. Mining and fabricating companies need chemicals as well. Hazardous materials may be determined to be waste products and must be taken somewhere for proper disposal or storage.
Whatever the case, trained hazmat drivers or teams of drivers are needed.
The second reason for the popularity of this line of work is that it pays well. Hazmat truck driving jobs are some of the highest-paying jobs in the industry. They require a higher degree of training and driving experience with a focus on safety, but the financial rewards could be motivating, including many jobs that pay $100,000 annually or more.
Entry-Level Training
Hazmat driving training requirements are fairly detailed, since companies want to make sure those behind the wheel of a tanker or tractor-trailer have adequate training and time between the wheels.
The training process starts with a regular driver’s license, followed by Entry-Level Driving Training. Taking a EDLT course provides the information for those hoping to obtain their first Class A or Class B Commercial Drivers License, upgrade an existing license, get a school bus endorsement (S) or a hazardous material endorsement (H.)
Hazardous Material Driver/Employee Training
People can complete EDLT training and receive certification by taking a skills test. Though it’s possible to learn the material on one’s own, a more recommended path is to take a training course that covers the required information as well as opportunities for testing.
Many people go on to receive their N endorsement, which focuses on hauling a tanker. An X endorsement can include the tanker and hazardous endorsement.
The training can include information about managing the different hazardous materials, including understanding required signage. Students will also learn about different rules for different roadways.
Each state may have their own rules and guidelines for hazardous materials, as well as some federal regulations.
In some instances, people can work hauling non-hazardous materials while training for hazardous endorsement.
Reasonable Suspicion Supervisor Training
Although all CDL driver jobs prohibit getting behind the wheel when impaired by drugs or alcohol, it’s even more important that someone stays clean when hauling hazardous cargo due to the greater risks to property, people, and the environment if an accident occurs.
In addition to individual accountability for drivers, supervisors need to make sure drivers are not under the influence of drugs or alcohol before they head out. Taking a Department of Transportation course as part of hazmat driver training requirements can provide what to look for and what actions to take if a driver appears to be impaired.
Implied DOT Classes
Training programs are vital, and some programs go beyond basic DOT requirements to make sure trained drivers have plenty of practice and experience. Recertification is also required at least every three years or if job requirements change.
Hazmat Driver Jobs
Drivers with hazardous material training can receive plenty of work as well as opportunities to make plenty of money. To learn more about trucking jobs, visit tristatehazmat.com or call (855) 432-3199.