It’s quite easy to fall out of compliance with hazmat shipping regulations. Always pay close attention to detail.
When it comes to shipping hazardous materials such as lithium batteries, it’s all too easy to make mistakes. And while it’s easy to simply say that mistakes can and will happen in the course of any process, it’s absolutely imperative to avoid them at all costs in the field of hazmat shipping. A set of regulatory standards are in place to ensure compliance from companies and keep workers and the general public safe. Companies can fall out of compliance for a number of different reasons, but there are three in particular that are worth noting and keeping an eye on when you set about auditing your own team.
1. Failing to Understand Regulatory Differences
It is often said that the hazmat shipping field is extraordinarily complex and this is primarily because of the different sets of regulations you need to keep in mind. The kind of hazardous material you are shipping will clearly impact your approach to shipping it, but many companies fall out of compliance because they do not consider the method of transportation that the cargo will be taking. The same material may have different shipping standards when it is transported by air than it does when transported by land. Even more confusing, these standards may also differ on land, depending on whether it is traveling on a tractor trailer or on a train. Make sure your team understands exactly which regulations will affect your particular shipments.
2. Assuming Common Substances Are Not Hazardous
It can be quite easy to assume that certain common items and substances are not hazardous when they actually are. For example, ask a number of random people on the street whether they thought their smartphone is hazardous – chances are you’d walk away thinking that they aren’t. But smartphones contain lithium batteries, which are classified as dangerous goods by the DOT and regulated as such. Smart and effective training programs are a great way to avoid falling into this compliance trap.
3. Overestimating the Competency of Hazmat Employees
Training is a necessary step in the development of a competent hazmat employee, but it is by no means sufficient. Employers have a duty to determine competency before assigning duties to the new employee. This process could take longer than you might believe owing to the complexity of hazmat shipping rules and regulations. But it is a crucial step if you want your company to avoid potential compliance issues.
Get In Touch With Airpack Today For Your Hazmat Shipping Needs
We have been pioneers in our industry for over 30 years and can assist you with your hazmat shipping needs. We are able to meet any and all of your consulting and training needs, and our trained professional staff is here to help you with your questions about hazmat shipping and regulations.
Feel free to contact us today or email us at info@airpack.com. Our fax number is 410-768-6603. You can also find and follow us on social media and be sure to subscribe to our blog to receive additional important postings concerning hazmat shipping, lithium battery packing, and other services Airpack provides. We look forward to hearing from you soon.