PHSMA Revises Hazmat Definitions

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) regulate the safety and security regulations for the transportation of hazardous materials in interstate, intrastate, and foreign commerce. The Hazardous Materials Safety and Security Reauthorization Act of 2005 amended Federal hazmat law by revising certain terminology, definitions, and requirements. A final rule issued January 9, 2007, revises the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR; 49 CFR parts 171-180) and the hazardous materials program and rulemaking procedures in 49 CFR parts 105, 106 and 107. Revisions to the provisions of the HMR effect; definitions of “hazmat employee” and “hazmat employer;” revision of shipping paper retention requirements; security plan exception for farmers; applicability of postal laws and regulations, and replacement of the phrase “Exemption” with “Special Permit.” Those subject to hazmat regulations, go to https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/regulations-fr/rulemaking/05-23754 to review the final rule.