The Harmony Challenge with Hazmat Transport and GHS
Written By: Atanu Das on Monday, November 17, 2025
The Harmony Challenge episode featuring Gene Sanders dives deep into why so many challenges persist in aligning transport and SDS hazard definitions—and what safety professionals can do about it.
Complexity in Hazard Classifications
Hazard communication is rarely straightforward. Gene Sanders, with his decades of experience, illustrates the real-world disconnect between regulatory structures: OSHA focuses on GHS classifications relevant to SDSs, while DOT, ICAO, IATA, IMDG, and other bodies have their own frameworks for transportation purposes. The result? The exact same chemical can be classified differently for OSHA and DOT—even before crossing international borders.
International and National Regulatory Differences
Sanders explains that regulatory agencies like OSHA and DOT don’t just enforce different rules; they apply different philosophies in risk management. Internationally, layers are added by ICAO, IMDG, ADR, and TDG, further complicating how hazardous materials and dangerous goods are defined and moved.
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OSHA: Emphasizes worker protection and right-to-know
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DOT: Focuses on preventing incidents during transport
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ICAO/IATA: Centered on air safety, often more stringent
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IMDG: Geared toward marine transport
Each system brings unique requirements for packaging, labeling, and documentation.
The Role of Training and Section 14
A key takeaway from the episode: proper transport classification training is critical for those completing Section 14 of SDSs. Sanders highlights extensive gray areas where subjective and objective criteria diverge. This means even seasoned professionals can stumble—unless they stay current, embrace ongoing retraining, and understand the nuances of each regulation.
Gene encourages ongoing education for anyone in the chain, especially when handling returns, waste, or unusual shipments crossing regulatory boundaries.
Gray Areas and Practical Advice
What can professionals do to thrive amid this lack of harmony? Sanders offers these tips:
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Invest in specialized, mode-specific training—what’s legal on the road may not be in the air.
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Understand packaging and mode impacts on classification; one “classification” is rarely enough.
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Maintain a culture of compliance by treating Section 14 not as a paperwork chore but as a potential risk management check point.
About Gene Sanders
Gene Sanders’ expertise comes from over 25 years across chemical, pharmaceutical, and waste environments—plus a pioneering record as a Certified Dangerous Goods Trainer in five regulatory sets. His insight stems not just from teaching, but from working both as a shipper and a carrier, ensuring practical advice rather than just theoretical compliance.