Important Reminder Regarding Shipment of Dangerous Goods

Please find below an important message from the UK Environmental Management Department: 

I need to remind you of a matter that is vitally important in meeting the intent and spirit of certain regulatory obligations, and in ensuring the safe transportation of dangerous goods (1) packaging originating from the University. The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has established regulations for the transport of dangerous goods by rail, air, vessel (ships), and motor carrier (ground).  Very significant financial penalties may result from any violations of DOT regulations.

Please be advised that: 

• Any faculty, staff, or student associated with the University who is involved in shipping dangerous goods is subject to DOT regulations.  These regulations include mandatory training requirements which consist of both an initial and bi-annual (every two-years) refresher certification component.
• Compliance with the above training requirements is required to maintain the legal ability to ship dangerous goods.
• Supervisors should ensure that all affected personnel are instructed on the need for training, and should ensure that no dangerous goods are shipped if the individual does not have current training.  Consider posting reminder notices in appropriate locations in the work place.
• Departments not typically involved in shipping dangerous goods may have an occasional need to do so.  If currently trained personnel are not present, contact 257-7375 or mblac0@uky.edu for information regarding the next scheduled training or for assistance with a particular shipment.
• The University, through the Environmental Health and Safety Division (EH&S), offers free training consisting of a class-room version of the initial training and an on-line service for the refresher certification.  Please note that the refresher certification shall only be completed by individuals who have previously successfully completed the initial classroom version. 

DOT inspectors are routinely on campus conducting routine inspections and it is imperative that the University uphold the highest standards of regulatory compliance in this matter.  Noncompliance with DOT regulations can result in a civil penalty of up to $75,000. 

If you have any questions concerning your regulatory obligations pertaining to the shipment of dangerous goods, and/or you are aware of personnel in your area shipping dangerous goods that do not have current training, please contact EH&S at 257-3129 for assistance.  

Furthermore, if a federal inspector does initiate an inspection of your area and/or affected records, you must contact one of the EH&S representatives below for assistance and guidance during the inspection.

       EH&S - Environmental Management Department

       Robert Kjelland (Director) - 257-3285; robert.kjelland@uky.edu

       Mike Blackard (Dangerous Goods Shipping Trainer) - 257-7375

       Ronald Taylor (Compliance Manager) - 257-3129; ron.taylor@uky.edu

       Website (Training Information) - http://ehs.uky.edu/env/shipping.php 

 (1) Dangerous goods includes but is not necessarily limited to aerosol sprays, airbags, butane, car batteries, dry ice, fireworks, gasoline, jet fuel, lighters, lithium batteries, matches, nitrogen-refrigerated liquid, paint, chemicals such as solvents, oxidizers, reactives and corrosives and poisons, and more.  Furthermore, infectious substances affecting humans and infectious substances affecting animals are considered dangerous goods.  If in doubt regarding whether a material to be shipped is considered dangerous goods, contact one of the EH&S representatives for assistance.