HAZMAT — What’s the difference?
Hazmat vs. materials of trade!
Construction companies use small quantities of spray paints, lubricants, and gasoline that are classified as hazardous materials. When those materials are transported on a company car, they are called materials of trade (MOTs). Below we identify what the difference is between a hazardous material and MOT.
What’s a material of trade?
A MOT is a hazmat that is carried on a motor vehicle for:
- Protecting health and safety of the vehicle operator or passenger (insect repellent, self-contained breathing apparatus);
- Supporting the operation or maintenance of the vehicle (spare battery, engine fluid); or
- Direct support of a principal business other than transport (lawn care, plumbing, welding, farm operations, etc.).
Are there materials that don’t qualify as MOTs?
Yes, a few materials don’t qualify including self-reactive materials, and materials that are poisonous by inhalation never qualify as MOTs.
What different rules apply to MOTs that don’t apply to hazmat?
MOTs do not need to meet some hazmat shipping requirements, including shipping papers, placarding, emergency response information, and training for hazmat employees. However, MOTs must still meet other requirements.
Key to remember: If you operate a motor vehicle with MOTs, make sure you understand what they are, the quantity, and the proper packaging and marking for those materials.