In the news: The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration is seeking input from industry stakeholders regarding the hazardous materials regulatory system.
In an advance notice of proposed rulemaking published to the Federal Register on July 5, the agency has requested comments related to “46 distinct topics under consideration” that could potentially help to “modernize” the hazmat regulatory system.
Three key programs under consideration for modernization include:
- Placarding of vehicles transporting “residue IBCs”.
- The frequency of perioding packaging tests to maintain UN certification.
- The possible reuse of sample packaging in more than one of the qualification tests.
For each of the major topics, DOT provides a detailed set of questions seeking information on how the revisions should apply and what costs would be incurred or avoided, all while maintaining or improving the current level of safety.
The deadline to file comments is Oct. 3, and can be done online using the docket number PHMSA–2019–0031. The agency says that “any comments, data, and information received will be used to evaluate and potentially draft proposed amendments.”
Go Deeper: You can read the full ANPRM here.