What do the Hazardous Materials Regulations under DOT intend to prevent?

The Hazardous Materials Regulations under the Department of Transportation (DOT) aim primarily to prevent accidents and minimize their impact when transporting hazardous materials. These regulations set strict guidelines for the identification, packaging, labeling, and handling of hazardous substances to ensure safety throughout the transportation process. By emphasizing safety protocols and proper handling methods, the regulations help reduce the likelihood of spills, leaks, and other incidents that could harm public health, the environment, and property. The ultimate goal is to create a systematic approach to managing hazardous materials in a way that protects both people and the surrounding ecosystem. Other considerations, such as equipment wear, fuel leakage, or employee injuries, while important, are secondary to the main objective of preventing accidents and their consequences.