CHAPTER 2
IDENTIFICATION OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
SECTION I. PURPOSE AND APPLICABILITY
2.1 Purpose
This chapter addresses strategies for the identification of Hazardous Materials other than bulk
petroleum products that are received, stored, and handled by DoD installations. Guidance applicable
to bulk petroleum storage and handling is set forth in MIL-HDBK-201, Petroleum Operations.
2.2 Applicability
The provisions of this chapter are applicable to all personnel whose duties involve the identification
of materials with hazardous characteristics.
SECTION II. BACKGROUND
2.3 General
Many commodities used by DoD are hazardous or contain hazardous materials that have special
requirements for storage and handling. The dangers posed by these items can be serious and
personnel need to be aware of the domestic and international laws and regulations associated with
them. These laws and regulations place special emphasis on communicating the hazards associated
with these products because exposure can result in serious personal injury, permanent disabilities and
even death. Property and the environment may also be damaged or destroyed. It is imperative that all
workers recognize and understand the hazards associated with these commodities. No single
functional area is exempt from these risks to health, safety and property.
2.4 Identification
It is essential that hazardous materials are accurately identified to insure safe storage, handling and
disposal. Federal regulatory agencies require manufacturers and distributors to identify the physical,
health and environmental hazards of their commodities in several ways. Placards, labels, markings,
and MSDS are just some of the means used to convey this information. The methods and procedures
of identification and classification in this document are in a simplified outline. This does not relieve
individuals working with these materials from the responsibility of having full awareness and
understanding of the requirements for hazard communications. Also, hazardous material personnel
shall be responsible, unless otherwise specified, for full compliance with the mandatory provisions
referenced in this publication.
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