How are "hazardous materials" classified?

Hazardous materials are classified primarily by the Department of Transportation (DOT). The DOT has established regulations and guidelines that define what constitutes hazardous materials, ensuring a uniform approach to handling, transporting, and storing these materials across states and jurisdictions. This classification includes various criteria based on the chemical and physical properties of the materials, as well as the potential risks they pose to health, safety, and the environment.

The DOT's system helps ensure that not only are these materials identified correctly, but also that appropriate precautions and procedures are in place for their transportation. For those involved in the transportation of hazardous materials, understanding these classifications is crucial for compliance with federal regulations and for ensuring public safety. Other organizations, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or state regulations, may be involved in environmental standards and additional safety measures, but the primary authority for classification in the context of transportation is the DOT.