Fuel for Thought

Household to HazMat

Hauling hazardous materials (HazMat) loads can be daunting for someone who has never done it. Most of my career in trucking, I hauled household goods, moving families from one home to another. HazMat is not an issue with this segment of the trucking industry. Household goods carriers just do not haul it. When I decided to go into expediting, I knew that HazMat would be a possibility, so I set out to learn everything I could about it.

 When I went to orientation, there were a few new drivers there who said they were scared to haul HazMat loads. If hauling HazMat scares you, consider learning more about it. The more you know, the less overwhelming it is. Never take it for granted, give HazMat loads the respect and attention they deserve, not only for your own safety, but also for the people around you. This includes the motoring public that you share the road with as well as those who you park near when you have to stop for breaks. Obviously, some loads are much more dangerous than others. Know your limitations. Also, know your carrier's policies and limitations. 

 Recently, while hauling a HazMat load to Washington, I was stopped for inspection at a weigh station in Oregon. The officers went through everything, logs, paperwork, truck and even the load. It is a very nice feeling to get a clean inspection at a weigh station with a HazMat load. They even commented on the amount of straps and E-Trac load bars used to secure the load. They will never tell you that you used too much, but they can cite you for not having the load properly secured.

 Each successful HazMat load you safely haul will give you more confidence , but don’t let that confidence allow you to be less diligent in your duties.

See you down the road.

Greg

 All adventures, especially into new territory, are scary.

- Sally Ride