Chemistry of hazardous materials Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2

Chemistry of hazardous materials - Essay Example The sooner the explosive is named, the quicker a response team can put together a plan of action. Explosives are classified by DOT (2012): Explosives must have a driver that is physically and mentally fit to understand all local, state, and federal laws regulating explosive transport. The Department of Labor (2012) explains that no smoking or weapons can be carried on their transport. Metal should be covered so no spark occurs. These transports should not be left alone. Like other hazardous materials, explosive transports shall be clearly marked as such. Finally, the Department of Labor (2012) requires a working fire extinguisher that drivers are trained to use in the transports. Explosives are different from other hazardous materials due to the mass destruction caused. For example, an explosion can destroy a road, railway, or ship and everything in the vicinity. A toxic gas leak can lead to evacuations, but can be cleaned up with little or no life loss. The property damage is less as well. Once something explodes it cannot be taken back. It damages, kills, and can potentially lead to other explosions. These are a few reasons explosions are different from other hazardous