The Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) require all hazmat employers to train their hazmat employees. This training ensures that every hazmat employee is familiar with the HMR, can recognize and identify hazardous materials, understands the specific HMR requirements for their tasks, and is aware of emergency response, self-protection, and accident prevention procedures. (49 CFR Subpart H, 172.700 through 172.704)

Before performing any job function covered by the HMR, hazmat employees must be trained, tested, and certified. Until they complete their training, they can only perform hazmat functions under the direct supervision of a fully trained and certified hazmat employee. Training must also be completed within 90 days.

Additionally, hazmat employees must receive recurrent training at least once every three years and be tested after each training session. Training can be provided by the hazmat employer or other public or private sources. Regardless of who provides the training, the hazmat employer is responsible for ensuring that the training is effective, appropriate, and successful in equipping employees with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their job functions safely.