Function Specific Training: Placarding
For hazmat employers and employees responsible for identifying, placing, and replacing hazardous materials placards during transportation.
Course Overview
The DOT Hazmat Function Specific — Placarding course provides role-focused training on the correct identification, selection, placement, and replacement of hazardous materials placards used during transportation. It builds on the DOT Hazmat Transportation: General Awareness Training by focusing on the placarding responsibilities required under the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR).
Who should take this course?
- Shippers and carriers responsible for marking and placarding shipments
- Loading/unloading personnel and drivers who apply or inspect placards
- Warehouse staff involved in staging hazmat loads
- Supervisors ensuring placarding compliance
Learning Objectives
- Identify when and which placards are required for specific hazardous materials shipments.
- Correctly select appropriate placards based on hazard class and quantity thresholds.
- Demonstrate proper placement, visibility, and maintenance of placards on vehicles and packages.
- Recognize situations requiring placard replacement or additional marking.
- Understand documentation, recordkeeping, and employer responsibilities related to placarding.
Course Outline
- Placarding fundamentals & regulatory basis (HMR)
- Hazard classes, placard selection, and quantity thresholds
- Placement, visibility, and special cases (bulk vs. non-bulk)
- Removing/replacing damaged or missing placards
- Inspection checklists and employer procedures
- Practical scenarios and knowledge check
Prerequisites
Learners should have completed DOT Hazmat Transportation: General Awareness Training or possess equivalent knowledge to ensure they understand basic hazmat principles before taking this function-specific course.
Format & Duration
- Format
- SCORM-compliant eLearning (LMS delivery) with downloadable certificate
- Approx. Duration
- 45–60 minutes (self-paced)
- Assessment
- Scenario-based knowledge check (certificate issued upon passing)
Compliance Statement
This course is developed to align with DOT HMR placarding requirements when implemented and documented by the employer. Maintain training records and completion certificates to demonstrate compliance during inspections.
This DOT Hazmat Function Specific Training: Placarding equips you with the knowledge and skills to navigate the world of placarding hazardous materials for safe and compliant transport. Upon completion, you'll be able to:
- Gain a solid understanding of the purpose and applicability of the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR), ensuring your placarding practices comply with federal guidelines.
- Become proficient in the general placarding requirements outlined in the HMR, laying the foundation for accurate application.
- Grasp the requirements for affixing both primary and subsidiary hazard placards to shipments, clearly communicating the full range of potential risks.
- Understand the special placarding provisions that apply specifically to highway and rail transport of hazardous materials.
- Develop the ability to recognize placards used for different hazard classes and divisions, enabling you to accurately identify potential hazards.