HAZMAT CDL Practice Test

If you must briefly leave your placarded vehicle parked on a public roadway, what must the watcher know?

1. They must have a driver's license

2. They must know what to do in an emergency

3. They must be a trained hazardous material handler

4. They must be at least 18 years old

The correct answer is: They must know what to do in an emergency

The key requirement for a watcher left with a placarded hazardous materials vehicle is that they must know what to do in an emergency. This knowledge is crucial because the nature of hazardous materials can pose significant risks to public safety, and emergencies can arise quickly. A watcher who understands how to respond properly—whether that involves notifying authorities, initiating containment measures, or helping ensure public safety—can play a vital role in effectively managing any incidents that occur while the driver is away. Having a driver’s license, being a trained hazardous material handler, or being at least 18 years old, while potentially beneficial qualifications, do not directly address the immediate concerns of managing a situation involving hazardous materials. The effective handling of emergencies takes precedence, as the priority is to ensure safety in case of an accident or spill. Therefore, the essential criteria for the watcher is their preparedness to act in an emergency situation.