The manual helps responders to identify the specific or generic classification of the hazardous material that might be involved in an incident. It is published every four years by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, to meet updated regulations and new products and technology, and incorporate relevant feedback from emergency responders. The latest edition is due to be released in the first quarter of 2016. It includes 10 added, revised or expanded sections, covering approximately 3,500 materials, and features 62 guides for describing what to do when different categories of hazardous materials are released. According to Labelmaster, the guide is especially well suited for truck drivers, railroad and maritime personnel, freight facility and warehouse workers, pipeline employees, first responders, pilots and airfreight handlers, and police and firefighters.
