What agency is responsible for regulating the transportation of hazardous materials?

The Department of Transportation (DOT) is the correct answer because it is the primary federal agency responsible for the regulation and oversight of the transportation of hazardous materials in the United States. DOT establishes the rules and regulations that govern how hazardous materials should be safely transported by various modes, including road, rail, air, and water. These regulations are detailed in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, which outlines specific requirements for packaging, labeling, and handling hazardous materials to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.

In contrast, the other agencies mentioned have different areas of focus. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) primarily deals with environmental protection and regulation concerning pollution and hazardous waste but does not directly regulate the transportation of hazardous materials. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is focused on domestic security and federal law enforcement, not transportation regulations. Lastly, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is concerned with workplace safety and health standards but does not regulate the transportation of hazardous materials. Therefore, the DOT’s role in regulating the transportation of hazardous materials makes it the appropriate agency for this responsibility.