Proposed rule could save up to $100 million

Impact

The goal of PHMSA’s proposed changes is to update requirements that will help improve safety, reduce costs, and make transportation easier on drivers.

If PHMSA’s proposed rule is accepted, it could:

• Provide nearly $100 million in annual savings for both consumers and businesses,
• Improve supply chains by simplifying regulations that impact drivers, and
• Enhance safety standards across multiple modes of transportation.

Some highlights include simplifying hazard communication requirements for certain fuels, reducing review times for tank car design improvements on rail cars, and updating certain standards for agricultural equipment.

PHMSA’s proposed amendments

PHMSA proposes to amend the provisions of highway, rail, and vessel hazardous materials. Some of the key changes include updates to:

• Highway cargo tank specifications and requalification requirements,
• Rail tank car and service equipment design approval requirements,
• Rail tank car use requirements as recommended by the Rail Safety Advisory Committee, and
• Marking requirements for cargo tanks that contain multiple petroleum distillate fuels.

Submit your comments

PHMSA is seeking public comment on these proposed changes to determine the needs, benefits, and costs; the amount of public interest; and any potential impacts on safety.

Comments may be sent via online portal, fax, mail, or hand delivery within 90 days after the proposed rule is published in the Federal Register. Submitters should include the agency name and Docket Number PHMSA-2018- 0080 (HM-265) at the beginning of their comment.