Haz-mat Training For Consumer Quantity Packaging?

According to CFR 49, 171.8, hazardous materials training is required for a person who is employed by a hazardous materials employer and who, in the course of employment, directly affects hazardous materials transportation safety. Recent questions have been submitted to DOT regarding the training requirements for private citizens shipping hazardous materials (ie: items returned to a manufacturer by consumers) and professionals (ie: doctors, veterinarians and pharmacists) shipping hazardous materials. DOT has stated that for the private citizen, no formal training is required but they must comply with all the applicable haz-mat requirements when offering such for transportation in commerce. Professionals DO require the formal haz-mat training. non-compliance with the training requirement can result in penalty violations.