A course in hazardous materials

Todays industries use materials unknown as recent as a decade or two ago: synthetic plastics and fibers, explosives, corrosive acids, pyrophoric liquids, combustible metals, toxic and radioactive materials, highly flammable petroleum fuels and many more. Much of this material is transported in both large and small quantities over water. Since the Coast Guard is tasked with regulating the transportation of these materials in ships, an understanding of the inherent dangers and proper handling of hazardous materials is of paramount importance to individuals charged with the enforcement of these regulations. The need to provide training for future officers of the Coast Guard in the area of Hazardous Material Transportation is being met at the Coast Guard Academy.