Which Federal agency issues standards and regulations regarding the transportation of hazardous materials?

• A. Environmental Protection Agency
• B. Occupational Safety and Health Administration
• C. Department of Defense
• D. Department of Transportation

Answer: (D)

Standards for transporting hazardous materials are set by the Department of Transportation. The department, through the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, issues the Hazardous Materials Regulations that govern packaging, labeling, shipping papers, placarding, and safety requirements for transporting hazmat by all modes—air, rail, road, and water. These rules are primarily found in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (Parts 171–180 and related sections).

Other agencies play related roles but not the central regulatory authority for hazmat transport. The Environmental Protection Agency focuses on environmental protection, OSHA handles workplace safety, and the Department of Defense deals with defense operations. The Department of Transportation coordinates with agencies like the FAA, FRA, USCG, and FMCSA to cover the different transportation modes.

So, the Department of Transportation is the correct choice.