Haz Mat for dummies?

Have my hazmat but never really used it. My company has a few loads from one of their customers that is hazmat. Anyway before I commit to doing them I need to brush up on any equipment I specifically need to have with me.

I am familiar with the MSDS stuff and record keeping things I need to do, just wanting to make sure I am not overlooking anything. Is there a website anyone knows of that spells out the regs and requirements in plain English. Thanks

 

Full chemical suit (pants and coat), full face shield, hard hat, chemical gloves, flame retardant overalls.
That's our equipment.

What all are you needing to know about?

 

If you have your Hazmat you get the awesome job of hauling around Ebola patients

 

One time a trucker in St. Louis was holding in his hand his haz mat placards, he gave some lame excuse why he didn't put them on the trailer when he started the trip miles ago.

I actually handle luggage at the airport (CLE) YES the one on the news today,
sometimes you get candy, sweat, ect... stuck to handle,
sometimes blood if it's old peeps, or a broken handle,
that broad certainly had luggage that could be contagious...

if that ain't haz mat,

 

I hope it is with a reefer. [emoji40]

 

When I pull a HM load, things I pay attention to, and in no particular order:

Load is blocked and braced,
Padlock on the door,
Have an extra placard,
Use clear tape, not duct, to additionally secure placards (just learned that one)
Pay attention to your routing and look for No HM signs.
Keep bills and ERG book or MSDS sheet within arm's reach whilst driving
And in door pocket when out of the truck,
Flag a tire check every time you stop. It might be a good idea to check them too.
Do the speed limit and drive in a manner that does not attract attention to yourself.
Stop at RRX crossings
If you find you are leaking a HM product, stop! And contain the spill as opposed to leaving a trail.

 

Thanks for the replies. Bills and placards I pretty well know about. Mainly looking for the little things that get overlooked and gives the DOT man something to write you up on. Good stuff Matt and Ebola Guy.

 

Is this a bulk load? All the same material? How much weight?

Can't really give a lot of info. without knowing more. Some stuff doesn't jive with other stuff and you have to handle some stuff differently than other stuff. It can be very confusing or really simple, just depends. Sorry to be so vague but, if you can be a little more specific than I can help. If you don't feel comfortable than get to reading the handbook which you should have.

 

Maybe all hospital staff should be required to get their hazmat endorsements. If anything else just so they can get the cools suits this guys talking about lol. Its not like its a big deal or anything it only makes your eyes bleed and kills 70% of the time. And we are the most heavily regulated industry, ridiculous.