In this paper the author details the role of the Research and Special Programmes Administration with reference to the transport of hazardous materials in the USA. The Department of Transportation regulates the transport of hazardous materials under the authority of the Hazardous Materials Transportation Act (HMTA). Under amendments to HMTA (entitled the "Hazardous Materials Transportation Act of 1990" or HMTUSA) enacted in 1990, Research and Special Programmes Administration (RSPA) has been delegated major new responsibilities. The law mandates RSPA to undertake numerous rulemakings and studies concerning issues such as standardized training, enhanced emergency planning, the improvement of the current placarding system, and the need for a central reporting system for hazardous materials (dangerous goods) shipments. The law also requires participation in international activities affecting hazardous material transport in order to provide for uniformity between U.S. and international regulations. These responsibilities are in addition to pre-existing responsibilities for ensuring the safety of hazardous materials in transport through the promulgation and enforcement of regulations on packaging, hazard communication, classification of hazardous materials, and coordination of emergency response activities.
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