Hazmat Emergency Response Information: ERG and CHEMTREC Guide for Shippers

Emergency Response Information for Hazmat Shipments

Every dangerous goods shipment must be accompanied by emergency response information accessible to transportation workers and first responders. This information enables appropriate initial response to hazmat incidents, protecting lives and the environment during the critical first minutes before specialized hazmat teams arrive.

DOT Emergency Response Information Requirements

49 CFR 172.602 requires emergency response information to be immediately accessible during transport. This information must include the basic description of the hazardous material, immediate health hazards, fire and explosion risks, immediate precautions in case of accident, initial firefighting methods, initial spill handling procedures, and preliminary first aid measures. The information must be on shipping papers or in a separate document immediately accessible to the driver.

Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG)

The DOT Emergency Response Guidebook provides standardized initial response guidance organized by UN number. Guide pages specify isolation distances, protective actions, firefighting techniques, and first aid procedures for each hazard category. Truck drivers must carry current ERG copies and know how to access the appropriate guide page for their cargo. Updated editions are published every four years.

CHEMTREC Emergency Services

The Chemical Transportation Emergency Center (CHEMTREC) at 1-800-424-9300 provides 24/7 emergency response guidance for hazmat incidents. Shippers of dangerous goods can register with CHEMTREC to provide product-specific emergency response information accessible by emergency responders calling the CHEMTREC number. Freight brokers should verify CHEMTREC registration for shippers of complex chemical products.

IATA and IMDG Emergency Provisions

IATA DGR requires emergency response information in the form of Emergency Response Drill pages for airline ground handlers and flight crews. The IMDG Code requires the EmS (Emergency Schedules) Guide and Medical First Aid Guide (MFAG) to be carried aboard vessels. These maritime resources provide ship-specific emergency procedures for dangerous goods incidents at sea.

Carrier and Facility Emergency Plans

Warehouse facilities storing dangerous goods must maintain site-specific emergency response plans addressing each hazard class in inventory. Drayage operators must carry emergency response information for all hazmat loads. Facility and carrier plans should integrate with local emergency response agencies through coordination meetings and shared information systems.

Go Freight’s Emergency Preparedness

Go Freight maintains comprehensive emergency response readiness from South Florida. Our operations include CHEMTREC registration, current ERG access, trained emergency response coordinators, and integrated communication protocols for hazmat incident management.