Due to the potential harm they can cause, hazardous materials are often transported with the utmost care. In order to protect the environment and people living in it, these substances can be shipped only by certified professionals (transporters) in specific packaging that minimizes any leakages or spills.
What are hazardous materials?
Hazardous materials such as explosives and poisonous gases may have a negative impact on communities if not handled properly. This is why transporting them take a professional touch.
Hazmat vs. Non-Hazmat
If a substance has the potential of harming people, animals or the environment, it is known as hazardous material. This group of substances is commonly referred to as hazmat.
Most companies that deal with hazardous materials employ trained professionals to transport them in order to avoid any harm or damage. Also, every country has its own regulations regarding their transportation and storage.
Some substances are classified as both hazmat and non-hazmat depending on their chemical makeup or the amount of risk associated with transporting them: for example, sodium pentothal and iron oxide are considered hazmat when transported in powder form but not when transported in pill form.
Fuels
Fuels can be flammable or combustible and are often used in vehicles. Gasoline, diesel and kerosene are common fuels that are transported from one place to another.
Such substances are not very hazardous, but they can cause fires if ignited – which is why they need to be transported in specific containers. Some of them can also spill or leak when improperly handled, so they must be packed to avoid any damage. If a fuel accidentally spills on the ground, it can cause an explosion; thus it has to be kept away from any source of heat and its surrounding area must be well ventilated.
Motor oil is also classified as a fuel and must be transported as such. It can spill, so it must be packed in a certain way.
Hazardous waste
Some substances are considered hazardous waste and as such, transporte de materiales peligrosos must be in special containers. They are classified as hazardous through their chemical composition and the amount of risk associated with them. For example: mercury is classified as a hazardous material because of its high toxicity and its potential of causing an environmental disaster when mishandled.
For these reason, hazardous materials are transported by professionals that have undergone training in handling them safely and correctly. They also monitor their storage conditions to avoid any damage to the environment or people living in it.