s is quite evident from the name, hazardous materials are dangerous stuffs that can be harmful for human beings as well as for the environment at large. But there are various classifications of these hazardous goods and it is very important to have a fair knowledge of the same as it helps in better handling of these materials. Hazard classification is mainly based on the extent of damage that is possible due to the dangerous goods. While some hazardous materials are less harmful, there are some, which pose great threat for human lives, property and the nature at large. Any person who deals with hazardous materials should have proper knowledge of hazard classification. Infact hazard classification is one of the primary things that are taught in the training classes organized by the various international organizations like IMO, DOT and IATA. These international organizations are responsible for the safety and security of transporting hazardous materials via waterways, roadways and airways respectively.

Hazard classification has become all the more important in the present days as the use of hazardous materials is increasing considerably. You will be surprised to know that there are innumerable things that we use daily, which are dangerous goods in some way or the other. The composition of these goods shows that there is use of hazardous materials in it. But it is not harmful in normal situations. The products are tested and hazard classification is done before it is sold in the market. While transporting these goods via roadways, DOT (Department of Transportation), ensures that all the rules and guidelines of transporting the dangerous goods are followed properly. According to the rules of DOT, IMO and IATA, any carrier that carries dangerous goods, should be accompanied by professionals, who are duly trained in handling hazardous materials. This reduces the risk of a big disaster as the experts can handle the situation and prevent it from becoming something large.

As per DOT, hazard classification can be based on various things. Usually, hazard classification include goods that are explosives, corrosives, radioactive materials, liquid and solid flammables, combustible substances, obnoxious gases, toxic materials, oxidizers and many more. The extent of damage that can be caused by each of these substances is different and that is what forms the base of hazard classification. As per the rules of hazard classification by DOT and other international organizations safeguarding use of hazardous materials, specific numbers and colors are given to different hazardous materials. This helps in identifying the extent of damage that can be caused by the goods. Hazmat professionals and consultants are given adequate training on hazard classification and taught about these symbols, colors and numbers in the training course as it become easier for them to gauge the disaster that can be caused by the material.

Knowledge of hazard classification is mandatory while transporting hazardous materials from one place to another. This is the reason that DOT has trained professionals in the vehicles that carry these goods to ensure safety and security while transportation.