The DOT has announced proposed changes to hazardous materials (hazmat) transport regulations designed to simplify compliance, enhance safety, and reduce carrier costs. The updates, introduced by the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), aim to save businesses an estimated $100 million annually while maintaining stringent safety standards.
Key Highlights of the Proposed Changes:
Simplified Hazard Communication:
Streamlined requirements for fuels like gasoline transported in tanker trucks.
Enhanced Rail Tank Car Standards:
Faster review timelines for tank car design improvements. Implementation of National Transportation Safety Board recommendations for safer rail tank car designs.
Innovative Inspection Technologies:
Approval of video and fiber-optic technologies for inspecting and calibrating cargo tanks across industries.
Updated Bonding and Grounding Requirements:
Expansion of static electricity prevention measures to include combustible liquids and flammable liquids reclassified as combustible. This revision addresses safety concerns highlighted by four major incidents between 2015 and 2019, resulting in over $10 million in damages.
What they’re saying: Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg emphasized that the proposal balances safety with cost reduction, making it easier for drivers and carriers to perform their jobs efficiently. The changes reflect evolving business practices and will improve packaging and operational standards across trucking, rail, and vessel companies.
What’s next: The proposal is open to public feedback before final implementation, allowing industry stakeholders to review the updates.
What This Means for the Industry: These updates have the potential to reduce operational costs while addressing key safety risks by streamlining processes and introducing modern technologies. Organizations involved in hazmat transportation should review the proposed changes and consider submitting feedback to ensure their concerns and needs are addressed.