Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) Safety Assessment Practice Test

Which department in the U.S. requires placards for hazardous materials on trucks?

1. Central Intelligence Agency

2. Department of Transportation

3. Department of Social Services

4. Department of Agriculture

The correct answer is: Department of Transportation

The Department of Transportation (DOT) is the correct answer because it is responsible for regulating and overseeing the safe transportation of hazardous materials in the United States. This includes implementing regulations that require vehicles carrying hazardous materials, such as trucks, to display placards. These placards serve to inform others about the nature of the materials being transported, alerting emergency responders and the general public to potential hazards, thus enhancing safety on the roadways. The DOT's Hazardous Materials Safety Administration establishes guidelines for labeling and placarding to ensure that all drivers and emergency personnel are aware of the specific risks associated with the transported goods. These regulations are critical for minimizing accidents and ensuring proper safety protocols during incidents involving hazardous materials. The other departments listed do not have roles that pertain to the regulation or oversight of hazardous materials transportation. For instance, the Central Intelligence Agency focuses on national security and intelligence; the Department of Social Services deals with social welfare programs; and the Department of Agriculture primarily focuses on farming, food, and rural development. None of these have a mandate related to hazardous materials in transit.