What’s Required in a DOT Hazmat Security Plan?

The Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) require some shippers and carriers to develop and implement a plan to address security risks related to hazardous materials transportation, often referred to as a security plan. These requirements exist to protect shipments of hazmat materials from malicious misuse, sabotage, and diversion by terrorists or others who wish to do harm.

This overview provides key details about hazmat security plans, including what a DOT hazmat security plan is and the components the US DOT requires for your security plan.

More: Hazmat Security Plans: Who Must Have One?

What Is a DOT Hazmat Security Plan?

A DOT hazmat security plan is a written plan developed and implemented by an employer who offers or transports certain types/quantities of hazardous materials to address security risks related to the transportation of hazardous materials in commerce.

[49 CFR Part 172 Subpart I]

What Must Be Included in a Hazardous Material Plan?

At a minimum, a security plan must include the following elements:

1. Personnel security. Measures to confirm information provided by job applicants hired for positions that involve access to and handling of the hazardous materials covered by the security plan. Such confirmation system must be consistent with applicable Federal and State laws and requirements concerning employment practices and individual privacy.
2. Unauthorized access. Measures to address the assessed risk that unauthorized persons may gain access to the hazardous materials covered by the security plan or conveyances being prepared for transporting the hazardous materials covered by the security plan.
3. En-route security. Measures to address the assessed security risks of shipments of hazardous materials covered by the security plan en route from origin to destination, including shipments stored incidental to movement.

The security plan must also include:

1. Identification by job title of the senior management official responsible for overall development and implementation of the security plan;
2. Security duties for each position or department responsible for implementing the plan, or a portion of the plan, and the process of notifying employees when specific elements of the security plan must be implemented; and
3. A plan for training hazmat employees in accordance with 49 CFR 172.704 (a)(4) and (a)(5).

DOT Hazmat Training: In Person or Online

Join Lion for engaging, lively in-person training and develop the expertise you need to classify and name hazardous materials, package hazmat, mark and label packages, fill out shipping papers, and comply with DOT security plan and security training requirements for hazmat employees.

Hazmat Ground Shipper Certification (DOT) Workshop

Can't attend the workshop for hazmat training? Join a live webinar or learn online at your own pace.

Tags: 49 CFR, hazardous materials regulations, hazmat, security plan