Drivers who haul hazardous materials soon will have to confront a new job requirement. Besides passing their CDL exam and hazmat endorsement, they will have to clear a background check designed to screen out security risks.

In the June issue of RoadStar, Washington Editor Oliver Patton takes a closer look at the hazmat rule, required by a law Congress passed in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks. “The details are troublesome,” he notes, “especially for drivers who have a criminal record. For example, what, precisely, constitutes a ‘security risk’? Who makes the decision, and what happens to a driver who is not cleared?”
Although the rule is still pending, Patton says, sources indicate that the Department of Transportation will be able to deny a hazmat endorsement for a variety of criminal convictions. On the list are crimes such as murder, assault with intent to murder, treason, kidnapping, extortion and armed robbery. Also, unlawful possession, sale, distribution or manufacture of a weapon or explosive, and distribution of or intent to distribute a controlled substance.
It is not clear at this point how many drivers might be affected. That will depend on which crimes are published in the final rule But clearly, some drivers will be challenged. As one trucking executive said, “They’re truck drivers, not choirboys.”
For the complete story, including a related story on security tips for truckers, see the June issue of RoadStar. Find out where to get RoadStar or how to subscribe at www.roadstaronline.com.