Which federal agency is responsible for regulating hazardous materials transportation?

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is the federal agency tasked with regulating the transportation of hazardous materials. This responsibility includes establishing safety regulations for the proper identification, packaging, and movement of hazardous substances across various transportation modes, including rail, highway, air, and water. PHMSA’s primary goal is to ensure that hazardous materials are transported safely to protect public health, property, and the environment.

The agency plays a vital role in developing regulations and standards that transportation companies must follow when dealing with hazardous materials. This encompasses a wide range of activities, including enforcement of safety compliance, conducting inspections, and providing guidance on best practices.

In the context of hazardous materials transportation, the other agencies mentioned have different scopes of responsibility. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focuses on environmental protection and regulation of hazardous waste, while the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is concerned with workplace safety and health standards. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) primarily oversees the use and transport of nuclear materials rather than hazardous materials in general. These distinctions clarify why the PHMSA is the correct answer in this scenario.