DOT Amends Hazmat Rules to Maintain Consistency with International Regulations
DOT said that the amendments include changes to proper shipping names; hazard classes; packing groups; special provisions; packaging authorizations; air transport quantity limitations; and vessel stowage requirements.
The U.S. Department of Transportation's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration posted a final rule on Jan. 19 that amends the U.S. Hazardous Material Regulations (HMR) to maintain consistency with international regulations and standards.
DOT said that the amendments include changes to proper shipping names; hazard classes; packing groups; special provisions; packaging authorizations; air transport quantity limitations; and vessel stowage requirements, and the changes harmonize the HMR with recent changes in the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code, the International Civil Aviation Organization's Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air, and the United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods—Model Regulations.
Some of the amendments resulted from coordination with Canada under the U.S.-Canada Regulatory Cooperation Council.
The final rule became effective Jan. 19, 2017, and mandatory compliance set to begin on Jan. 1, 2018, unless otherwise specified. For more information on DOT's efforts to improve hazardous materials safety and awareness or to access the HMR, visit www.phmsa.dot.gov.