DOT Initiates Effort to Simplify Hazmat Carrier Regulations

DOT Initiates Effort to Simplify Hazmat Carrier Regulations

The Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has proposed changes to the hazardous materials transport regulations.

Following this, the Biden administration is all set in its initiative to ease compliance and save an estimated $100 million for carriers. The amendments will impact trucking, rail, and shipping companies.

“The proposal we’re announcing today streamlines requirements while maintaining safety measures, helping to reduce costs for businesses and consumers and make it easier for drivers to do their job,” stated Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

DOT emphasized the importance of public feedback, ensuring regulation updates are adjusted accordingly.

Taking into view the changing business practices and packaging standards, certain considerations have been addressed:

  • Inspection of cargo tanks using video and fiber-optic technology in both agricultural and non-agricultural settings.
  • Review time reduction for rail tank car design improvements.
  • Addressing National Transportation Safety Board recommendations for enhanced rail tank car standards.
  • Proper labeling and communication for tanker trucks carrying gasoline or other hazardous materials.

The proposition was further forwarded to the Federal Register along with other initiatives announced on National Manufacturing Day (October 4th) by the Biden-Harris Administration.

PHMSA also suggested revising bonding and grounding requirements for the 40+ proposed initiatives, highlighting the proper handling of combustible materials, including flammable liquids by eliminating static electricity.

Established on November 20, 2004, the PHMSA or Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration is a US based transportation agency that streamlines the movement of hazardous materials and resources.

It was created with the sole objective to safeguard the general public by facilitating safe and secure transportation of hazardous materials by all transportation modes, including the nation’s pipeline transportation system. The PHMSA regulates nearly 1 million daily shipments of hazardous materials by land, sea, and air.

With the goal to support safe operations and provide cost-effective solutions in supply chains across America and the globe, the transportation sector can expect a significant shift once the proposal is set into motion.

Lading Logistics is committed to helping companies promote a safer, more efficient regulatory environment by ensuring compliance and safety.

By leveraging their expertise and resources, Lading Logistics aims to provide efficient and reliable international shipping and logistics solutions for their clients.