DOT Hazmat: Segregation ‑ Rail

Hazmat training must cover several essential areas to ensure safety and regulatory compliance. This includes General Awareness or familiarization training, Function-specific training, Safety training, and Security awareness training. In-depth security training is required if a security plan is in place. Employees who operate motor vehicles must also complete Driver training. Hazmat employers must train, test, and certify each employee within 90 days of hire. Recurrent training is required at least once every three years. Rail carriers subject to the HMR may not transport hazardous materials unless all involved hazmat employees have completed the required training and testing. Until training is completed, employees may perform hazmat tasks only under direct supervision. Depending on the employee’s role, additional training may be necessary. This can include emergency response, further DOT hazardous materials training, or instruction in the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Employers must provide site-specific training focused on the company’s procedures, hazard prevention practices, proper use of equipment, health and safety policies, and emergency protocols. All site-specific training should be properly documented.