The Hazardous Material Process or Processing Regulation, 527 CMR 33.00, came into effect on February 3, 2012, and was developed to improve communication between facilities that handle hazardous materials and local fire departments. This regulation applies to “a process which involves or produces a Hazardous Material which occurs in a vessel.” Hazardous material is defined as a chemical or substance that is a physical hazard or health hazard as defined and classified in 527 CMR 33.00. There are five categories established in the regulation, which are dependent on vessel size and hazard. All facilities are expected to evaluate the categorization of all hazardous material processes and implement appropriate control measures. In addition, regulated facilities must file permit applications and report to local fire departments in accordance with the schedule and requirements outlined in 527 CMR 33.00. All facilities requiring permits must file by January 1, 2014, with some application deadlines earlier.