CDL Hazardous Materials Practice Test

What must drivers carry while transporting Class A or B explosives?

1. A fire extinguisher

2. A written route plan

3. An emergency response guide

4. A safety data sheet

The correct answer is: A written route plan

When transporting Class A or B explosives, carrying a written route plan is essential for several reasons. Such a plan helps ensure the safe and efficient transportation of hazardous materials by outlining the optimal route for the journey, considering factors like avoiding densely populated areas, sensitive sites, or potential routes with higher risks. The route plan aids in the preparedness for any potential emergencies by clearly defining the path that will be taken, which is crucial for both the driver and emergency response teams in the event of an accident. In the context of transporting hazardous materials, while fire extinguishers, emergency response guides, and safety data sheets are important safety considerations in various situations, they do not directly address the specific requirement for a planned route. The written route plan plays a critical role in compliance with federal regulations and is mandated for drivers handling these types of explosives to prevent accidents and ensure public safety during transportation.