What must be done to manholes and valves before moving when loading hazmat?

When loading hazardous materials (hazmat), it is essential to ensure that manholes and valves are closed. Closing these access points is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it helps prevent leaks and spills of hazardous substances, reducing the risk of contamination and ensuring safety during transportation. Keeping manholes and valves closed minimizes the potential for fumes or vapors to escape, which can be dangerous to both drivers and the environment.

Additionally, if manholes and valves are not securely closed, it could lead to regulatory violations and compromise the safety measures required under hazardous materials transport regulations. Proper sealing helps maintain the integrity of the load and provides a safeguard against accidents that could result from exposure to hazardous materials.

While inspecting these access points before loading is important, simply closing them is a mandatory requirement to ensure safe transport.