CDL Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME)Bulk Tanks and Other ContainersEasy

A driver is transporting a bulk shipment of a hazardous material that is a liquid with a flash point of 65°F (18.3°C). Which DOT hazard class applies to this material?

  1. AClass 9 Miscellaneous Hazardous Material
  2. BClass 3 Flammable Liquid
  3. CClass 2 Flammable Gas
  4. DClass 4 Flammable Solid
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B. Class 3 Flammable Liquid

A flammable liquid, according to DOT regulations (49 CFR 173.120), is a liquid having a flash point of not more than 140°F (60°C). Since 65°F is less than 140°F, it is a Class 3 Flammable Liquid.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. Class 9 is for materials that don't fit into other classes, and a flammable liquid has a specific class.
  • C. Flammable gases are not liquids and have different flash point criteria.
  • D. Flammable solids are not liquids and have different classification criteria.

Flammable Liquid Definition

A flammable liquid is a liquid having a flash point of not more than 140°F (60°C), as defined by DOT hazardous materials regulations (49 CFR 173.120).

  • Flash point <= 140°F (60°C).
  • Includes some liquid mixtures with flammable components.
  • Ignites easily at ambient temperatures.

Memory trick: If it's a liquid and flashes below sixty Celsius (140 F), it's a 'Class 3' fiery liquid.

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