On November 14, 2004, the Research and Special Programs Administration announced that companies or individuals required to do so may file their hazardous materials incident reports electronically. Issued under docket number RSPA-2004-18975, this ruling allows for the electronic filing of hazardous materials that occur after January 1, 2005. All events prior to that date must still be filed using DOT form 5800.1.

    For those pursuing this option there will be two methods available. The first option will allow the filer to fill out the form online. The second option will allow the filer to submit the file in an electronic format. That format will be available at the DOT web site. By using the XML schema they have provided the filer will be assured that the file they have sent meets the DOT’s requirements.

    To learn more about this new procedure and to view the forms and instructions visit the DOT web site at http://hazmat.dot.gov .