96-3555. Revision of Miscellaneous Hazardous Materials Regulations; Regulatory Review  

  • [Federal Register Volume 61, Number 34 (Tuesday, February 20, 1996)]
    [Proposed Rules]
    [Pages 6478-6486]
    From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
    [FR Doc No: 96-3555]
    
    
    
    
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    Part V
    
    
    
    
    
    Department of Transportation
    
    
    
    
    
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    Research and Special Programs Administration
    
    
    
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    49 CFR Part 171, et al.
    
    
    
    Revision of Miscellaneous Hazardous Regulations; Regulatory Review; 
    Proposed Rule
    
    Federal Register / Vol. 61, No. 34 / Tuesday, February 20, 1996 / 
    Proposed Rules 
    
    [[Page 6478]]
    
    
    DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
    
    Research and Special Programs Administration
    
    49 CFR Parts 171, 172, 173, 176, 177, and 178
    
    [Docket HM-222B; Notice No. 96-3]
    RIN 2137-AC76
    
    
    Revision of Miscellaneous Hazardous Materials Regulations; 
    Regulatory Review
    
    AGENCY: Research and Special Programs Administration (RSPA), DOT.
    
    ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
    
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    SUMMARY: RSPA proposes to revise the Hazardous Materials Regulations 
    (HMR) based on its review of the HMR and on written and oral comments 
    received from the public concerning regulatory reform. The intended 
    effect of this rulemaking is to reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens 
    on industry and make the regulations shorter and easier to use without 
    compromising public safety. In particular, RSPA is proposing reductions 
    in requirements pertaining to training frequency, incident reporting, 
    and emergency response telephone numbers. This action is in response to 
    President Clinton's March 4, 1995 memorandum to heads of departments 
    and agencies calling for a review of all agency regulations and 
    directing front line regulators to ``get out of Washington'' and create 
    grassroots partnerships with the regulated community.
    
    DATES: Comments must be received on or before April 19, 1996.
    
    ADDRESSES: Please address written comments to the Dockets Unit (DHM-
    30), Research and Special Programs Administration, U.S. Department of 
    Transportation, Washington, DC 20590-0001. Comments may also be faxed 
    to (202) 366-3753. Comments should identify the docket (Docket No. HM-
    222B). The Dockets Unit is located in Room 8421 of the Nassif Building, 
    400 Seventh Street SW., Washington, DC 20590-0001. Office hours are 
    8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding public 
    holidays.
    
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John A. Gale or Jennifer Antonielli, 
    (202) 366-8553; Office of Hazardous Materials Standards, RSPA, 
    Department of Transportation, Washington, DC 20590-0001.
    
    SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
    
    I. Background
    
        On March 4, 1995, President Clinton issued a memorandum to heads of 
    departments and agencies calling for a review of all agency regulations 
    and elimination or revision of those regulations that are outdated or 
    in need of reform. In response to the President's directive, RSPA 
    performed an extensive review of the Hazardous Materials Regulations 
    (HMR; 49 CFR Parts 171-180), and associated procedural rules (49 CFR 
    Parts 106 and 107).
        The President also directed that front line regulators ``* * * get 
    out of Washington and create grassroots partnerships'' with people 
    affected by agency regulations. On April 4, 1995, RSPA published in the 
    Federal Register (60 FR 17049) a notice announcing seven public 
    meetings and requesting comments on its hazardous materials safety 
    program. RSPA requested comments on ways to improve the HMR and the 
    kind and quality of services its customers want. RSPA received over 50 
    written comments in response to the notice. On July 28, 1995, RSPA 
    published a second notice (60 FR 38888) announcing five more public 
    meetings to be held from September to January 1996. On October 13, 
    1995, (60 FR 53321) RSPA issued an NPRM under Docket HM-222A that 
    proposed to remove those sections of the regulations that have been 
    identified in RSPA's regulatory review, in comments, and in the public 
    meetings held to date as being unnecessary, duplicative, or outdated.
        In this NPRM, RSPA proposes to amend various sections of the HMR 
    based on agency initiative and on written and oral comments received 
    from the public on regulatory reform. This rulemaking is one of several 
    rulemakings that RSPA will initiate in response to its regulatory 
    review, public meetings, and comments.
    
    II. Proposed Changes
    
    Part 171
    
        Section 171.16. Several commenters requested modification of the 
    incident reporting requirements in Part 171. One commenter requested 
    that exceptions from the incident reporting requirements in Sec. 171.16 
    be provided for limited quantities. RSPA concurs that continued 
    reporting of certain incidents involving limited quantities would be of 
    minimal value when weighed against the burden on the carriers required 
    to prepare incident reports. Therefore, except for materials 
    transported by aircraft, RSPA proposes certain exceptions from the 
    incident reporting requirements in Sec. 171.16 for limited quantities 
    of Packing Group II and III materials.
    
    Part 172
    
        Section 172.101. Based on a commenter's request, RSPA proposes to 
    amend the Sec. 172.101 Table for the entries ``Cartridges for weapons, 
    blank, or Cartridges, small arms, blank, UN 0014''; ``Cartridges for 
    weapons, inert projectile, or Cartridges, small arms, UN0012''; 
    ``Cartridges, power device, UN0323''; and ``Cartridges, small arms'', 
    in Column (7), by removing the reference ``112''. Also for these 
    entries, in Column (8A) of the Sec. 172.101 Table, the word ``None'' or 
    ``230'', as appropriate, would be removed and replaced with ``63''. The 
    provisions to reclass an explosive as an ORM-D material, currently 
    contained in Special Provision 112 and in Sec. 173.230(b), would be 
    relocated to Sec. 173.63(b) to minimize confusion. See also preamble 
    discussion on proposed amendments to Sec. 173.230.
        One commenter requested that RSPA amend Column (7) of the 
    Sec. 172.101 Table for the entry ``Ethanol or Ethyl alcohol or Ethanol 
    solutions or Ethyl alcohol solutions'' by adding Special Provision 
    ``24'' to allow ethanol the same packing group criteria as alcoholic 
    beverages. Special Provision 24 recently was adopted in the HMR for the 
    shipping name ``Alcoholic beverages'' to provide alternative packing 
    group criteria to that of Sec. 173.121. The special provision specifies 
    that alcoholic beverages with more than 70 percent alcohol by volume 
    are assigned Packing Group II and alcoholic beverages containing more 
    than 24 percent but not more than 70 percent alcohol are assigned 
    Packing Group III. The commenter requested that the special provision 
    also be assigned to ethanol because Packing Group II or III distilled 
    spirits can be and are shipped under either ``Alcoholic beverages'' or 
    ``Ethanol or Ethyl alcohol or Ethanol solutions or Ethyl alcohol 
    solutions.'' RSPA agrees with the commenter and proposes to add Special 
    Provision ``24'' in Column (7) of the Sec. 172.101 Table for the entry 
    ``Ethanol or Ethyl alcohol or Ethanol solutions or Ethyl alcohol 
    solutions.''
        Section 172.102. In paragraph (c)(1), RSPA proposes to remove 
    Special Provision 112 because its provisions would be relocated to 
    Sec. 173.63(b). See also preamble discussion on proposed changes to 
    Secs. 172.101 and 173.230.
        Section 172.201. For clarity, RSPA proposes to amend 
    Sec. 172.201(d) by adding a cross-reference to Sec. 172.604(c) 
    
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    for exceptions from the requirement to maintain an emergency response 
    telephone number.
        Section 172.203. RSPA proposes to revise the requirements for 
    identifying hazardous substances on shipping papers and package 
    markings. Currently under the HMR, all constituents in a mixture or 
    solution that meet the definition of ``hazardous substance'' in 
    Sec. 171.8 must be identified on shipping papers and package markings. 
    RSPA proposes, consistent with the technical name requirements in 
    Sec. 172.203(k), to require for hazardous materials that contain two or 
    more hazardous substances that at least two hazardous substances be 
    identified on shipping papers and package markings.
        In addition, RSPA proposes to amend paragraph (e)(2) and remove 
    paragraph (e)(3) to eliminate the requirement to enter on shipping 
    papers ``RESIDUE: Last Contained * * *'' for packages containing only 
    the residue of a hazardous substance. This proposal is intended to 
    reduce regulatory burdens on industry.
        Section 172.316. One commenter requested that RSPA allow consumer 
    commodities that are prepared in accordance with the International 
    Civil Aviation Organization Technical Instructions for the Safe 
    Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air (ICAO Technical Instructions) to be 
    transported by motor vehicle. RSPA concurs and proposes to modify 
    Sec. 172.316 to allow the CLASS 9 label in lieu of the ORM-D marking on 
    packages of consumer commodities.
        Section 172.324. Consistent with proposed amendments to 
    Sec. 172.203(c), RSPA proposes to amend Sec. 172.324(a) to ease the 
    burden of identifying each hazardous substance on package markings. 
    RSPA would require for packages that contain a mixture or solution 
    comprising two or more hazardous substances, that at least two 
    hazardous substances be marked on the package in association with the 
    proper shipping name.
        Section 172.402. One commenter requested an exception from the 
    requirement for subsidiary hazard labeling for certain packages of 
    Class 7 (radioactive) materials that also meet the definition of 
    another hazard class, except Class 9. Generally, the commenter seeks 
    parity with a labeling exception in Sec. 173.4 for small quantities of 
    hazardous materials. These Class 7 materials conform to all 
    requirements in Sec. 173.4, except for their specific activity level, 
    which exceeds permissible limits for a limited quantity radioactive 
    material. Because the non-radioactive hazards of these materials pose a 
    minimal risk in transportation, the commenter suggests that 
    Sec. 172.402(d) be revised to except them from the requirement to label 
    for the subsidiary hazard. Based upon successful experience under 
    exemption DOT-E 10660, which currently authorizes transportation of 
    certain packages, and consistent with the commenter's request, RSPA 
    proposes to revise paragraph (d) by adding an exception from the 
    subsidiary hazard labeling requirement for packages of Class 7 
    materials that otherwise conform to Sec. 173.4.
        Section 172.500. RSPA proposes to redesignate paragraphs (b)(4) and 
    (b)(5) as paragraphs (b)(5) and (b)(6) and add a new paragraph (b)(4) 
    to clarify that small quantities of Division 4.3 materials prepared in 
    accordance with Sec. 173.13 are excepted from the placarding 
    requirements of Subpart F of Part 172.
        Section 172.600. In accordance with Sec. 172.600(d), a material 
    that is classed as ORM-D, except when offered or intended for 
    transportation by air, is excepted from the emergency response 
    information and telephone number requirements of Subpart G of Part 172. 
    The Conference on Safe Transportation of Hazardous Articles (COSTHA) 
    petitioned (P-1094) RSPA to except all ORM-D materials, including those 
    transported by air, from emergency response information requirements 
    because of the small quantities involved and minimal hazards associated 
    with ORM-D materials. COSTHA further stated that because an ORM-D 
    material is not assigned an identification number, no specific 
    emergency instructions are provided. Therefore, it contends that 
    documented emergency response information and the 24-hour response 
    telephone number are unnecessary. COSTHA also reported that many 
    consumer commodities are allowed to be carried as checked and carry-on 
    baggage without application of the emergency response communication 
    standards. Thus, it argues that the aggregate quantity of consumer 
    commodities that are carried by passengers may be considerably larger 
    than that carried as cargo to which the emergency response information 
    is required. RSPA agrees with the petitioner that the requirements to 
    provide emergency response information and maintain a 24-hour telephone 
    number are unduly burdensome for shippers of ORM-D air materials and, 
    thus, proposes an exception in Sec. 172.600(d) for these materials.
        Section 172.604. Based on its own initiative and petitions for 
    rulemaking, and because the costs to implement these requirements 
    outweigh the benefits, RSPA proposes to except the following materials 
    from emergency response telephone number requirements: (1) liquid 
    petroleum distillate fuels (e.g., gasoline, propane, and diesel fuel); 
    (2) limited quantities of hazardous materials; and (3) materials 
    described under the shipping names ``Engines, internal combustion''; 
    ``Battery powered equipment''; ``Battery powered vehicle''; 
    ``Wheelchair, electric''; ``Carbon dioxide, solid''; ``Dry ice''; 
    ``Fish meal, stabilized''; ``Fish scrap, stabilized''; ``Castor bean''; 
    ``Castor meal''; ``Castor flake''; ``Castor pomace''; ``Mercury 
    contained in manufactured articles''; and ``Refrigerating machine''.
        Since emergency responders routinely handle incidents involving 
    liquid petroleum distillate fuels, it is questionable that the 24-hour 
    emergency response telephone number could provide emergency responders 
    with any additional information of value beyond that which is required 
    to be carried in the vehicle. Therefore, RSPA proposes to except liquid 
    petroleum distillate fuels from the emergency response telephone number 
    requirements in Sec. 172.604.
        RSPA believes that the costs outweigh the benefits associated with 
    maintaining the 24-hour emergency response telephone number 
    requirements for shipments of limited quantities and the materials 
    described under the shipping names listed above, e.g., Engines, 
    internal combustion, etc. Therefore, RSPA proposes to except those 
    materials from the emergency response telephone number requirements of 
    Sec. 172.604.
        In addition, based on its own initiative, RSPA proposes to clarify 
    that more than one emergency response telephone number with different 
    hours of operation may be used to satisfy the requirements of 
    Sec. 172.604 if the following conditions are met: (1) the hours of 
    operation of each number are clearly identified in association with the 
    respective telephone number; (2) each respective telephone number is 
    monitored during the time indicated while the hazardous material is in 
    transportation; and (3) the requirements of Sec. 172.604 (a)(2), 
    (a)(3), and (b) are met. This proposed amendment is intended to codify 
    RSPA's current position on this matter.
        Section 172.704. RSPA stated in the notice of public meetings under 
    Docket HM-222 (60 FR 17049) that it would consider extending the 
    requirement for recurrent training from every two years to every three 
    or four years. RSPA 
    
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    received several written and oral comments in support of decreasing the 
    frequency specified to train hazmat employees in accordance with 
    Subpart H of Part 172. Many commenters claimed that the current 
    requirement to train every two years is costly, difficult to 
    administer, and inconsistent with other training programs required 
    under other Federal, State and local regulations. Specifically, 
    commenters from the marine cargo handling industry requested that RSPA 
    increase the training interval to every four years for certain 
    longshoremen who only handle sealed containers of hazardous materials 
    and are not responsible for handling incidents involving the hazardous 
    materials. Other commenters stated that the recurrent training 
    requirement should be aligned to coincide with the Commercial Driver's 
    License renewal requirement which is generally every four years. One 
    commenter suggested that the interval for hazmat training coincide with 
    the Federal Railroad Administration requirement in 49 CFR 240.217(c)(1) 
    to certify engineers every three years. Some commenters requested that 
    RSPA require hazmat training every five years. In this NPRM, RSPA 
    proposes to decrease the frequency of all required hazmat training from 
    two years to three years. This frequency is consistent with other 
    training programs such as the training required under the 
    Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations issued by the Government 
    of Canada. Except as provided in Sec. 172.704(c), hazmat employees must 
    be trained whenever their hazmat functions change or the requirements 
    are revised, regardless of the minimally required training frequency 
    (see Sec. 172.702). For example, if a requirement for information on a 
    shipping paper changes as a result of a final rule, a hazmat employee 
    is required to be trained in the revised requirement as soon as the new 
    requirement becomes effective.
        RSPA also received comments from the marine cargo handling industry 
    concerning the applicability of the training requirements to 
    ``casuals'' who are longshoreman who are hired for short periods, 
    sometimes one day at a time. In accordance with Sec. 172.704(c), hazmat 
    employees must be trained within 90 days after employment. During this 
    90-day period, employees may perform hazmat functions only under the 
    direct supervision of a properly trained and knowledgeable hazmat 
    employee. This provision applies to a ``casual'' employed for less than 
    90 consecutive days by the same employer. In addition to removing 
    obsolete effective dates, RSPA is proposing to revise Sec. 172.704(c) 
    to clarify its position concerning the ``direct'' supervision of a 
    hazmat employee who has not received initial training. RSPA's position 
    is that the person who is providing direct supervision must be able to 
    instruct the employee on how to properly perform the hazmat function, 
    must observe performance of the hazmat function, and must be able to 
    take immediate corrective actions for any function not properly 
    performed. Therefore, RSPA is proposing to add the word ``direct'' 
    preceding the word ``supervision'' in Sec. 172.704(c)(1) and, in 
    Sec. 172.702(b), RSPA is adding a reference to the exceptions for 
    initial training found in Sec. 172.704(c)(1).
    
    Part 173
    
        Section 173.4. Currently, the HMR do not permit Class 2, Divisions 
    4.2 and 4.3 materials and hazardous materials identified in paragraph 
    (a)(11) to be shipped under the small quantity provisions, although 
    some of these materials are eligible for similar exceptions under the 
    ICAO Technical Instructions or an approval issued by the Associate 
    Administrator for Hazardous Materials Safety. For example, UN2031 
    (Nitric acid) is specifically listed in paragraph (a)(11) and may not 
    be shipped in accordance with the small quantity provisions. However, 
    small quantities of nitric acid are authorized under a number of 
    approvals to be shipped in this manner and no safety problems have been 
    encountered. In this notice, RSPA proposes to revise the small quantity 
    provisions by amending the introductory text in paragraph (a) to 
    authorize Divisions 4.2 and 4.3, Packing Groups II and III, materials 
    to be shipped in accordance with these provisions. This notice proposes 
    to remove paragraph (a)(11) and add a new paragraph (c) to allow small 
    quantities of certain categories of hazardous materials that are not 
    authorized under this exception to be shipped in accordance with this 
    section if specifically approved by the Associate Administrator for 
    Hazardous Materials Safety. RSPA also proposes to revise the marking 
    required to be displayed on packages of small quantities of hazardous 
    materials in paragraph (a)(10) by shortening the length of the required 
    statement. The proposed changes to Sec. 173.4 are intended to ease 
    burdens on industry and facilitate international transportation of 
    hazardous materials in small quantities.
        Section 173.13. RSPA proposes to add a new section Sec. 173.13 that 
    would incorporate, for highway and rail transport only, the provisions 
    of DOT exemptions E-7891 and E-9168 into the HMR. These exemptions, and 
    others commonly referred to as the ``poison pack exemptions,'' allow 
    small quantities of hazardous materials to be transported without their 
    primary or subsidiary labels. In addition, Division 4.3 materials which 
    meet the requirements of Sec. 173.13 would be excepted from the 
    placarding requirements of the HMR and Division 6.1 materials packaged 
    in the specified manner would be allowed to be transported with 
    foodstuffs.
        Section 173.21. RSPA proposes to incorporate into Sec. 173.21 the 
    provisions of a competent authority approval for temperature-controlled 
    shipments. This would eliminate the requirement that all shipments 
    requiring temperature control must be approved by the Associate 
    Administrator for Hazardous Materials Safety.
        Section 173.32a. RSPA proposes to remove a requirement for an 
    approval agency to submit an approval certificate to the Associate 
    Administrator for Hazardous Materials Safety. This proposed amendment 
    would provide relief from paperwork reporting burdens.
        Section 173.155. RSPA proposes to amend Sec. 173.155 by increasing 
    the quantity of Class 9 liquid materials permitted in an inner 
    packaging from 4.0 L (1 gallon) to 5.0 L (1.3 gallons). This proposal 
    is consistent with the United Nations Recommendations on the Transport 
    of Dangerous Goods (UN Recommendations) and is intended to provide 
    relief and facilitate transportation of these materials in 
    international commerce. RSPA may consider revising other limited 
    quantities or providing additional limited quantity exceptions for 
    other hazardous materials, (e.g., Division 4.3 materials), consistent 
    with the UN Recommendations, in a future rulemaking action.
        Section 173.171. Currently, Secs. 173.171 and 177.838(g) prescribe 
    requirements for smokeless powder for small arms. However, 
    Sec. 177.838(g) provides additional relief by permitting inside 
    packages of smokeless powder to be overpacked in UN 4G boxes, provided 
    the net weight of smokeless powder in any one box does not exceed 7.26 
    kg (16 pounds). This provision is not contained in Sec. 173.171. 
    Section 177.838(g) should be limited to provisions that apply 
    specifically to motor carriers and should not contain packaging 
    exceptions generally available to all shippers. Therefore, RSPA 
    proposes to remove the 
    
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    Sec. 177.838(g) provisions pertaining to classification and packaging 
    and revise Sec. 173.171 by adding the provision concerning smokeless 
    powder in overpacks.
        In addition, one commenter requested that RSPA allow smokeless 
    powder that has been reclassed as a Division 4.1 material to be 
    transported by vessel and cargo aircraft. The commenter also requested 
    that smokeless powder be allowed to be reclassed as ORM-D. RSPA agrees 
    that the exception to reclass smokeless powder to Division 4.1 should 
    be extended to transportation by vessel and cargo aircraft. However, an 
    ORM-D exception for smokeless powder may not provide an adequate level 
    of safety because shipping papers would not be required for 
    transportation by highway, rail or vessel and there would be no 
    restriction on the amount of material that is permitted in air cargo 
    compartments. RSPA believes that the hazards posed by smokeless powder, 
    a Packing Group I hazardous material, necessitate hazard communication 
    requirements (e.g., shipping papers, labels, and placards). Therefore, 
    RSPA proposes to allow smokeless powder that has been reclassed as a 
    Division 4.1 material to be transported by vessel and cargo aircraft, 
    but is not adopting the commenter's proposal to allow smokeless powder 
    to be reclassed as an ORM-D material.
        Section 173.220. RSPA received a petition for rulemaking (P-1204) 
    requesting an amendment to the HMR to except self-propelled vehicles 
    transported by vessel from the emergency response telephone number 
    requirements. The petitioner urged RSPA to provide this exception 
    because self-propelled vehicles do not pose an unreasonable risk to the 
    environment or the safety of personnel handling these items. RSPA 
    recognizes that the emergency response information required under 
    Sec. 172.602 provides emergency responders with the necessary 
    information to handle an incident involving a self-propelled vehicle. 
    It is questionable whether a shipper could provide emergency responders 
    with any additional information of value. Therefore, RSPA proposes to 
    amend paragraph (g)(2) in Sec. 173.220 to except shipments of self-
    propelled vehicles and mechanized equipment containing internal 
    combustion engines, or wet batteries transported by vessel or aircraft, 
    from the emergency response telephone number requirements of 
    Sec. 172.604.
        Section 173.230. Based on a commenter's request, RSPA proposes to 
    clarify provisions that permit the reclassification of certain Division 
    1.4S materials as ORM-D materials by removing Special Provision 112 in 
    Sec. 172.102(c)(1), relocating the provisions in Sec. 173.230(b) to 
    Sec. 173.63, and removing Sec. 173.230. See also preamble discussion on 
    proposed amendments to Secs. 172.101 and 172.102.
    
    Part 176
    
        Section 176.104. RSPA received a petition (P-1183), from the 
    Department of Defense (DOD), requesting removal of a requirement to use 
    a landing mat when depositing palletized packages of Division 1.1 and 
    1.2 (explosives) materials on deck. The petitioner states that landing 
    mats are cumbersome because they impede the operation of mechanized 
    equipment used to load and unload palletized materials. In addition, 
    the petitioner added that the landing mat serves no real purpose 
    because the pallet bottom serves as the shock absorber. RSPA agrees 
    with the petitioner and proposes to revise Sec. 176.104(i) to provide 
    relief for palletized loads of Division 1.1 and 1.2 materials.
    
    Part 177
    
        Section 177.801. Based on its own initiative, RSPA proposes to 
    revise this paragraph to include references to forbidden materials that 
    were previously in Sec. 177.821(c).
        Section 177.818. RSPA proposes to remove this section because its 
    provisions are covered under the emergency response and training 
    provisions of the HMR.
        Section 177.821. RSPA proposes to remove this section because it 
    duplicates other HMR provisions.
        Section 177.822. RSPA proposes to remove this section because 
    paragraph (a) is duplicative of other provisions for explosives and 
    paragraph (b), including a reference to Specification MC200, is 
    unnecessary. Also, in Sec. 178.315, RSPA proposes to remove 
    Specification MC200 from the HMR. See preamble discussion of 
    Sec. 178.315 of this proposed rule.
        Sections 177.824 and 177.834. RSPA proposes to remove Secs. 177.824 
    and 177.834(b) and (j) because they duplicate other HMR provisions. In 
    addition, in Sec. 177.834, a new paragraph (j) would be added to 
    consolidate provisions in Secs. 177.837(d), 177.839(d), and 177.841(d) 
    that require manholes and valves on cargo tanks to be closed prior to 
    transportation.
        Section 177.835. RSPA proposes to remove paragraphs (k), (l), and 
    (m) because parts 172 and 173 limit the concentration of liquid 
    nitroglycerin and diethylene glycol dinitrate that may be offered or 
    accepted for transportation. Therefore, these paragraphs are 
    unnecessary.
        Section 177.838. The HMR prescribe specific packaging requirements 
    and exceptions for smokeless powder for small arms in Sec. 173.171. In 
    this NPRM, RSPA proposes to amend paragraph (g) by removing procedures 
    for reclassifying Division 1.4S materials because they are redundant 
    with Sec. 173.171.
        Section 177.839. RSPA proposes to revise paragraph (a) by limiting 
    the applicability of this paragraph to nitric acid in concentrations of 
    50 percent or greater. In addition, in paragraph (a), the restriction 
    on stacking containers of nitric acid higher than two tiers and 
    paragraph (b) would be removed because they are outdated and 
    unnecessary.
        Section 177.841. One commenter requested that RSPA amend 
    Sec. 177.841 to be consistent with provisions of Sec. 175.630. The 
    commenter stated that the HMR currently authorize the transport of 
    foodstuffs and poisons in the same aircraft, provided the materials are 
    loaded into separate unit load devices that are not adjacent to each 
    other, or into closed unit load devices. The commenter asserted that if 
    this practice is authorized in air transportation, it should be 
    authorized in highway transportation. RSPA agrees with the commenter 
    that foodstuffs which are loaded in a closed unit load device should be 
    allowed to be transported in the same motor vehicle with poisons that 
    are loaded in a separate closed unit load device. However, pending 
    further review of the impact on safety, RSPA is not proposing to allow 
    foodstuffs and poisons to be in the same motor vehicle when they are 
    loaded into separate open unit load devices. In addition, RSPA proposes 
    to remove the provision allowing use of the container identified as 
    package ``4000'' in the National Motor Freight Classification 100-1, 
    for the transport of foodstuffs and poisons on the same motor vehicle. 
    RSPA believes that this container has not been used for some time and, 
    therefore, reference to it is unnecessary.
        Section 177.848. RSPA proposes to amend paragraph (e)(5) by 
    revising the definition of footnote ``A'' to the segregation and 
    separation table to clarify that ammonium nitrate, Division 5.1, 
    UN1942, may be loaded in the same transport vehicle with Divisions 1.1 
    and 1.5 materials.
    
    Part 178
    
        Section 178.315. RSPA proposes to remove Specification MC200 
    requirements from the HMR because 
    
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    RSPA believes that this container is no longer utilized in hazardous 
    materials service. RSPA invites comments on whether the MC200 
    containers still exist.
    
    III. Regulatory Analyses and Notices
    
    Executive Order 12866 and DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
    
        This proposed rule is not considered a significant regulatory 
    action under section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866 and was not reviewed 
    by the Office of Management and Budget. The rule is not considered 
    significant under the regulatory policies and procedures of the 
    Department of Transportation (44 FR 11034). The economic impact of this 
    rule is minimal to the extent that the preparation of a regulatory 
    evaluation is not warranted.
    
    Executive Order 12612
    
        This proposed rule has been analyzed in accordance with the 
    principles and criteria contained in Executive Order 12612 
    (``Federalism''). The Federal hazardous materials transportation law 
    (49 U.S.C. 5101-5127) contains an express preemption provision that 
    preempts State, local, and Indian tribe requirements on certain covered 
    subjects. Covered subjects are:
    
        (i) the designation, description, and classification of 
    hazardous material;
        (ii) the packing, repacking, handling, labeling, marking, and 
    placarding of hazardous material;
        (iii) the preparation, execution, and use of shipping documents 
    pertaining to hazardous material and requirements respecting the 
    number, content, and placement of such documents;
        (iv) the written notification, recording, and reporting of the 
    unintentional release in transportation of hazardous material; or
        (v) the design, manufacturing, fabrication, marking, 
    maintenance, reconditioning, repairing, or testing of a package or 
    container which is represented, marked, certified, or sold as 
    qualified for use in the transportation of hazardous material.
    
        Title 49 U.S.C. 5125(b)(2) provides that if DOT issues a regulation 
    concerning any of the covered subjects after November 16, 1990, DOT 
    must determine and publish in the Federal Register the effective date 
    of Federal preemption. That effective date may not be earlier than the 
    90th day following the date of issuance of the final rule and not later 
    than two years after the date of issuance. This proposed rule would 
    clarify and provide relief from certain regulations governing the 
    transportation of hazardous materials. RSPA solicits comments on 
    whether the proposed rule would have any effect on State, local or 
    Indian tribe requirements and, if so, the most appropriate effective 
    date of Federal preemption. Because RSPA lacks discretion in this area, 
    preparation of a federalism assessment is not warranted.
    
    Regulatory Flexibility Act
    
        I certify that this proposed rule will not have a significant 
    economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. This 
    proposed rule does not impose any new requirements on persons subject 
    to the HMR.
    
    Paperwork Reduction Act
    
        This proposed rule does not propose any new information collection 
    requirements.
    
    Regulation Identifier Number (RIN)
    
        A regulation identifier number (RIN) is assigned to each regulatory 
    action listed in the Unified Agenda of Federal Regulations. The 
    Regulatory Information Service Center publishes the Unified Agenda in 
    April and October of each year. The RIN number contained in the heading 
    of this document can be used to cross-reference this action with the 
    Unified Agenda.
    
    List of Subjects
    
    49 CFR Part 171
    
        Exports, Hazardous materials transportation, Hazardous waste, 
    Imports, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
    
    49 CFR Part 172
    
        Hazardous materials transportation, Hazardous waste, Labeling, 
    Marking, Packaging and containers, Reporting and recordkeeping 
    requirements.
    
    49 CFR Part 173
    
        Hazardous materials transportation, Packaging and containers, 
    Radioactive materials, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, 
    Uranium.
    
    49 CFR Part 176
    
        Hazardous materials transportation, Maritime carriers, Radioactive 
    materials, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
    
    49 CFR Part 177
    
        Hazardous materials transportation, Motor carriers, Radioactive 
    materials, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
    
    49 CFR Part 178
    
        Hazardous materials transportation, Packaging and containers, 
    Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
    
        In consideration of the foregoing, 49 CFR parts 171, 172, 173, 176, 
    177, and 178 would be amended as follows:
    
    PART 171--GENERAL INFORMATION, REGULATIONS, AND DEFINITIONS
    
        1. The authority citation for part 171 would continue to read as 
    follows:
    
        Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5101-5127; 49 CFR 1.53.
    
        2. In Sec. 171.16, paragraph (c) would be revised, paragraph (d)(2) 
    would be amended by removing the word ``nor'' at the end of the 
    paragraph, paragraph (d)(3) would be redesignated as paragraph (d)(4), 
    and a new paragraph (d)(3) would be added to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 171.16  Detailed hazardous materials incident reports.
    
    * * * * *
        (c) Except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section, the 
    requirements of paragraph (a) of this section do not apply to incidents 
    involving the unintentional release of a hazardous material--
        (1) Transported under one of the following proper shipping names:
        (i) Consumer commodity.
        (ii) Battery, electric storage, wet, filled with acid or alkali.
        (iii) Paint and paint related material when shipped in packagings 
    of five gallons or less.
        (2) Prepared and transported as a limited quantity shipment in 
    accordance with this subchapter.
        (d) * * *
        (3) Except for consumer commodities, materials in Packing Group I; 
    or
    * * * * *
    
    PART 172--HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TABLE, SPECIAL PROVISIONS, HAZARDOUS 
    MATERIALS COMMUNICATION, EMERGENCY RESPONSE INFORMATION, AND 
    TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
    
        3. The authority citation for part 172 would continue to read as 
    follows:
    
        Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5101-5127; 49 CFR 1.53.
    
    
    Sec. 172.101  [Amended]
    
        4. In the Sec. 172.101 Hazardous Materials Table, the following 
    changes would be made:
        a. For the entries ``Cartridges for weapons, blank, or Cartridges, 
    small arms, blank, UN 0014''; ``Cartridges for weapons, inert 
    projectile, or Cartridges, small arms, UN0012''; ``Cartridges, power 
    device, UN0323''; and ``Cartridges, small arms'', in Column (7), 
    special provision ``112'' would be removed.
        b. For the entries ``Cartridges for weapons, blank, ord Cartridges, 
    small arms, blank, UN 0014''; ``Cartridges for 
    
    [[Page 6483]]
    weapons, inert projectile, or Cartridges, small arms, UN0012''; and 
    ``Cartridges, power device, UN0323'', in Column (8A), the wording 
    ``None'' would be revised to read ``63''.
        c. For the entry ``Cartridges, small arms'', in Column (8A), the 
    wording ``230'' would be revised to read ``63''.
        d. For the entry ``Ethanol or Ethyl alcohol or Ethanol solutions or 
    Ethyl alcohol solutions'', in Column (7), the wording ``24,'' would be 
    added immediately preceding ``T1'', in Packing Group II, and the 
    wording ``24,'' would be added immediately preceding ``B1'' in Packing 
    Group III.
        e. For the entry ``Smokeless powder for small arms (100 pounds or 
    less), NA3178'', in Column (9B), the wording ``Forbidden'' would be 
    revised to read ``7.3 kg''.
    
    
    Sec. 172.102  [Amended]
    
        5. In Sec. 172.102, in paragraph (c)(1), special provision ``112'' 
    would be removed.
        6. In Sec. 172.201, paragraph (d) would be revised to read as 
    follows:
    
    
    Sec. 172.201  General entries.
    
    * * * * *
        (d) Emergency response telephone number. Except as provided in 
    Sec. 172.604(c), a shipping paper must contain an emergency response 
    telephone number, as prescribed in subpart G of this part.
        7. In Sec. 172.203, paragraph (c)(1) would be revised to read as 
    follows:
    
    
    Sec. 172.203  Additional description requirements.
    
    * * * * *
        (c) Hazardous substances. (1) Except for Class 7 (radioactive) 
    materials described in accordance with paragraph (d) of this section, 
    if the proper shipping name for a material that is a hazardous 
    substance does not identify the hazardous substance by name, the name 
    of the hazardous substance shall be entered in parentheses in 
    association with the basic description. If the material contains two or 
    more hazardous substances, at least two hazardous substances must be 
    identified. For a hazardous waste, the waste code, if appropriate, may 
    be used to identify the hazardous substance.
    * * * * *
    
    
    Sec. 172.203  [Amended]
    
        8. In addition, in Sec. 172.203, the following changes would be 
    made:
        a. In paragraph (e)(2), the phrase ``and paragraph (e)(3) of this 
    section'' would be removed.
        b. Paragraph (e)(3) would be removed.
        9. In Sec. 172.316, the first sentence of paragraph (a) would be 
    revised to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 172.316  Packagings containing materials classed as ORM-D.
    
        (a) Each non-bulk packaging containing a material classed as ORM-D 
    must be marked on at least one side or end with the ORM-D designation, 
    immediately following or below the proper shipping name of the material 
    or labeled with the CLASS 9 label (see Sec. 172.446). * * *
    * * * * *
    
    
    Sec. 172.316  [Amended]
    
        10. In addition, in Sec. 172.316, in paragraph (c), the wording 
    ``marking ORM-D'' would be removed and replaced with ``marking ORM-D or 
    labeling with the CLASS 9 label''.
        11. In Sec. 172.324, paragraph (a) would be revised to read as 
    follows:
    
    
    Sec. 172.324  Hazardous substances in non-bulk packagings.
    
    * * * * *
        (a) Except for packages of radioactive material labeled in 
    accordance with Sec. 172.403, if the proper shipping name for a 
    material that is a hazardous substance does not identify the hazardous 
    substance by name, the name of the hazardous substance must be marked 
    on the package, in parentheses, in association with the proper shipping 
    name. If the material contains two or more hazardous substances, at 
    least two hazardous substances must be identified. For a hazardous 
    waste, the waste code, if appropriate, may be used to identify the 
    hazardous substance.
    * * * * *
        12. In Sec. 172.402, paragraph (d) would be revised to read as 
    follows:
    
    
    Sec. 172.402  Additional labeling requirements.
    
    * * * * *
        (d) Class 7 (Radioactive) Materials. Except as otherwise provided 
    in this paragraph, each package containing a Class 7 material that also 
    meets the definition of one or more additional hazard classes must be 
    labeled as a Class 7 material as required by Sec. 172.403 of this 
    subpart and for each additional hazard. A subsidiary hazard label is 
    not required on a package containing a Class 7 material that conforms 
    to criteria specified in Sec. 173.4 of this subchapter, except 
    Sec. 173.4(a)(1)(iv) of this subchapter.
    * * * * *
        13. In Sec. 172.500, paragraphs (b)(4) and (b)(5) would be 
    redesignated as paragraphs (b)(5) and (b)(6), respectively, and a new 
    paragraph (b)(4) would be added to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 172.500  Applicability of placarding requirements.
    
    * * * * *
        (b) * * *
        (4) Small quantities of Division 4.3 materials prepared in 
    accordance with Sec. 173.13 of this subchapter;
    * * * * *
        14. In Sec. 172.600, paragraph (d) would be revised to read as 
    follows:
    
    
    Sec. 172.600  Applicability and general requirements.
    
    * * * * *
        (d) Exceptions. The requirements of this subpart do not apply to 
    hazardous material which is excepted from the shipping paper 
    requirements of this subchapter or a material properly classified as an 
    ORM-D.
        15. In Sec. 172.604, new paragraphs (c) and (d) would be added to 
    read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 172.604  Emergency response telephone number.
    
    * * * * *
        (c) A person may list more than one emergency response telephone 
    number with different hours of operation provided that--
        (1) The hours of operation of each number are clearly identified in 
    association with the respective telephone number;
        (2) Each respective telephone number is monitored during the time 
    indicated while the hazardous material is in transportation; and
        (3) The requirements in paragraphs (a)(2), (a)(3), and (b) of this 
    section are met.
        (d) The requirements of this section do not apply to--
        (1) Hazardous materials that are offered for transportation under 
    the provisions applicable to limited quantities;
        (2) Liquid petroleum distillate fuels; and
        (3) Materials properly described under the shipping names 
    ``Engines, internal combustion'', ``Battery powered equipment'', 
    ``Battery powered vehicle'', ``Wheelchair, electric'', ``Carbon 
    dioxide, solid'', ``Dry ice'', ``Fish meal, stabilized'', ``Fish scrap, 
    stabilized'', ``Castor bean'', ``Castor meal'', ``Castor flake'', 
    ``Castor pomace'', ``Mercury contained in manufactured articles'', 
    ``Refrigerating machine''.
    
    
    Sec. 172.702  [Amended]
    
        16. In Sec. 172.702(b), the phrase ``A hazmat employee'' is removed 
    and replaced with the phrase, ``Except as 
    
    [[Page 6484]]
    provided in Sec. 172.704(c)(1), a hazmat employee''.
        16a. In Sec. 172.704, paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) would be revised 
    to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 172.704  Training requirements.
    
    * * * * *
        (c) * * * (1) Initial training. A new hazmat employee, or a hazmat 
    employee who changes job functions may perform those functions prior to 
    the completion of training provided--
        (i) The employee performs those functions under the direct 
    supervision of a properly trained and knowledgeable hazmat employee; 
    and
        (ii) The training is completed within 90 days after employment or a 
    change in job function.
        (2) Recurrent training. A hazmat employee shall receive the 
    training required by this subpart at least once every three years.
    * * * * *
    
    PART 173--SHIPPERS--GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR SHIPMENTS AND 
    PACKAGINGS
    
        17. The authority citation for part 173 would continue to read as 
    follows:
    
        Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5101-5127; 49 CFR part 1.53.
    
        18. In Sec. 173.4, the section heading would be revised, paragraph 
    (a)(11) would be removed, paragraph (a) introductory text, paragraphs 
    (a)(9) and (a)(10) would be revised, and a new paragraph (c) would be 
    added to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 173.4  Small quantity exceptions.
    
        (a) Small quantities of Class 3, Division 4.1, Division 4.2 (PG II 
    and III), Division 4.3 (PG II and III), Division 5.1, Division 5.2, 
    Division 6.1, Class 7, Class 8, and Class 9 materials that also meet 
    the definition of one or more of these hazard classes, are not subject 
    to any other requirements of this subchapter when--
    * * * * *
        (9) The package is not opened or otherwise altered until it is no 
    longer in commerce; and
        (10) The shipper certifies conformance with this section by marking 
    the outside of the package with the statement:
    
        This package conforms to 49 CFR 173.4.
    * * * * *
        (c) Packages which contain Class 2, Division 4.2 (PG I), Division 
    4.3 (PG I) conforming to paragraphs (a)(1) through (a)(10) of this 
    section may be shipped if specifically approved by the Associate 
    Administrator for Hazardous Materials Safety.
        19. Section 173.13 would be added to subpart A to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 173.13  Exceptions for Class 3, Divisions 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 5.1, 6.1, 
    and Class 8 and 9 materials.
    
        (a) A Class 3, 8 or 9, or Division 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 5.1, or 6.1 
    material is excepted from the labeling requirements of this subchapter 
    if prepared for transportation in accordance with the requirements of 
    this section. In addition, materials in Division 4.3 are excepted from 
    the placarding requirements of this subchapter when prepared in 
    accordance with the requirements of this section. A material that meets 
    the definition of a material poisonous by inhalation may not be offered 
    for transportation or transported under provisions of this section.
        (b) A hazardous material conforming to requirements of this section 
    may be transported by motor vehicle or rail car only.
        (c) A hazardous material permitted by paragraph (a) of this section 
    must be packaged as follows:
        (1) For liquids:
        (i) The hazardous material must be placed in a tightly closed 
    glass, plastic or metal inner packaging with a maximum capacity not 
    exceeding 1.2 liters. Sufficient outage must be provided such that the 
    inner packaging will not become liquid full at 55 deg. C (130 deg. F). 
    The net quantity (measured at 20 deg. C (68 deg. F)) of liquid in any 
    inner packaging may not exceed one liter.
        (ii) The inner packaging must be placed in a hermetically-sealed 
    barrier bag which is impervious to the lading, and then wrapped in a 
    non-reactive absorbent material in sufficient quantity to completely 
    absorb the contents of the inner packaging, and placed in a snugly 
    fitting, rigid can.
        (iii) The rigid can must be securely closed. For liquids that are 
    in Division 4.2 or 4.3, the rigid can must be hermetically sealed.
        (iv) The rigid can must then be placed inside a securely closed, 
    outer packaging conforming to Sec. 173.201.
        (v) Not more than four cans are permitted in an outer packaging.
        (2) For solids:
        (i) The hazardous material must be placed in a tightly closed 
    glass, plastic or metal inner packaging. The net quantity of material 
    in any inner packaging may not exceed 2.85 kg (6.25 pounds).
        (ii) The inner packaging must be placed in a hermetically-sealed 
    barrier bag which is impervious to the lading.
        (iii) The barrier bag and its contents must be placed inside an 
    outer packaging conforming to Sec. 173.201.
        (iv) Not more than four bags are permitted in an outer packaging.
        20. In Sec. 173.21, paragraph (f)(3) would be revised to read as 
    follows:
    
    
    Sec. 173.21  Forbidden materials and packages.
    
    * * * * *
        (f) * * *
        (3) Refrigeration may be used as a means of stabilization only when 
    approved by the Associate Administrator for Hazardous Materials Safety. 
    For status of approvals previously issued by the Bureau of Explosives, 
    see Sec. 171.19 of this subchapter. Methods of stabilization approved 
    by the Associate Administrator for Hazardous Materials Safety are as 
    follows:
        (i) For highway transportation:
        (A) A material meeting the criteria of paragraph (f) of this 
    section may be transported only in a transport vehicle, freight 
    container, or motor vehicle equipped with a mechanical refrigeration 
    unit, or loaded with a consumable refrigerant, capable of maintaining 
    the inside temperature of the transport vehicle, freight container, or 
    motor vehicle at or below the control temperature required for the 
    material during transportation.
        (B) Each package containing a material meeting the criteria of 
    paragraph (f) of this section must be loaded and maintained at or below 
    the control temperature required for the material. The temperature of 
    the material shall be measured and entered on a written record at the 
    time the packaging is filled.
        (C) The vehicle operator shall monitor the inside temperature of 
    the transport vehicle, freight container, or motor vehicle and enter 
    that temperature on a written record at the time the package is loaded 
    and thereafter at intervals not exceeding two hours. Alternatively, a 
    transport vehicle, freight container, or motor vehicle may be equipped 
    with a visible or audible warning device that activates when the inside 
    temperature of the transport vehicle, freight container, or motor 
    vehicle exceeds the control temperature required for the material. The 
    warning device must be readily visible or audible, as appropriate, from 
    the vehicle operator's seat in the vehicle.
        (D) The carrier must advise the vehicle operator of the emergency 
    temperature for the material, and provide the vehicle operator with 
    written procedures that must be followed to assure maintenance of the 
    control temperature inside the transport vehicle, freight container, or 
    motor vehicle. The written procedures must 
    
    [[Page 6485]]
    include instructions for the vehicle operator on actions to take if the 
    inside temperature exceeds the control temperature and approaches or 
    reaches the emergency temperature for the material. In addition, the 
    written temperature-control procedures must identify enroute points 
    where the consumable refrigerant may be procured, or where repairs to, 
    or replacement of, the mechanical refrigeration unit may be 
    accomplished.
        (E) The vehicle operator shall maintain the written temperature-
    control procedures, and the written record of temperature measurements 
    specified in paragraph (f)(3)(i)(C) of this section, if applicable, in 
    the same manner as specified in Sec. 177.817 of this subchapter for 
    shipping papers.
        (F) If the control temperature is maintained by use of a consumable 
    refrigerant (e.g., dry ice or liquid nitrogen), the quantity of 
    consumable refrigerant must be sufficient to maintain the control 
    temperature for twice the average transit time under normal conditions 
    of transportation.
        (G) A material that has a control temperature of 40  deg.C (104 
    deg.F) or higher may be transported by common carrier. A material that 
    has a control temperature below 40  deg.C (104  deg.F) must be 
    transported by a private or contract carrier.
        (ii) For transportation by vessel, shipments are authorized in 
    accordance with the control-temperature requirements of Section 21 of 
    the General Introduction of the International Maritime Dangerous Goods 
    Code (IMDG Code).
    * * * * *
        21. In Sec. 173.32a, paragraph (c) would be revised to read as 
    follows:
    
    
    Sec. 173.32a  Approval of Specification IM portable tanks.
    
    * * * * *
        (c) Disposition of approval certificates. A copy of each approval 
    certificate must be retained by the approval agency and by the owner of 
    each IM portable tank.
    * * * * *
    
    
    Sec. 173.155  [Amended]
    
        22. In Sec. 173.155, in paragraph (b)(1), the wording ``4.0 L (1 
    gallon)'' would be revised to read ``5.0 L (1.3 gallons)''.
        23. In Sec. 173.171, the introductory text and paragraph (b) would 
    be revised and a new paragraph (d) would be added to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 173.171  Smokeless powder for small arms.
    
        Smokeless powder for small arms which has been classed in Division 
    1.3 may be reclassed in Division 4.1, for transportation by motor 
    vehicle, rail car, vessel, or cargo-only aircraft, subject to the 
    following conditions:
    * * * * *
        (b) The total quantity of smokeless powder must not exceed 45.4 kg 
    (100 pounds) net mass in:
        (1) One rail car, motor vehicle, or cargo-only aircraft; or
        (2) One freight container on a vessel, not to exceed four freight 
    containers per vessel.
    * * * * *
        (d) Inside packages that have been examined and approved by the 
    Associate Administrator for Hazardous Materials Safety may be packaged 
    in UN 4G fiberboard boxes meeting the Packing Group I performance 
    level, provided all inside containers are packed to prevent movement 
    and the net weight of smokeless powder in any one box does not exceed 
    7.3 kg (16 pounds).
        24. In Sec. 173.220, paragraph (g)(2) would be revised to read as 
    follows:
    
    
    Sec. 173.220  Internal combustion engines, self-propelled vehicles, and 
    mechanical equipment containing internal combustion engines or wet 
    batteries.
    
    * * * * *
        (g) * * *
        (2) Are not subject to the requirements of subparts D, E, and F 
    (marking, labeling, and placarding, respectively) of part 172 or 
    Sec. 172.604 (emergency response telephone number) of this subchapter 
    for transportation by vessel or aircraft.
    
    
    Sec. 173.63  [Amended]
    
    
    Sec. 173.230  [Removed]
    
        25. Paragraph (b) of Sec. 173.230 would be redesignated as 
    paragraph (b) of Sec. 173.63 and Sec. 173.230 would be removed.
    
    PART 176--CARRIAGE BY VESSEL
    
        26. The authority citation for part 176 would continue to read as 
    follows:
    
        Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5101-5127; 49 CFR 1.53.
    
        27. In Sec. 176.104, the first sentence of paragraph (i) would be 
    revised to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 176.104  Loading and unloading Class 1 (explosive) materials.
    
    * * * * *
        (i) A landing mat must be used when a draft of nonpalletized 
    Division 1.1 or 1.2 (Class A and B explosive materials) is deposited on 
    deck. * * *
    * * * * *
    
    PART 177--CARRIAGE BY PUBLIC HIGHWAY
    
        28. The authority citation for part 177 would continue to read as 
    follows:
    
        Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5101-5127; 49 CFR 1.53.
    
    
    Secs. 177.818, 177.821, 177.822, and 177.824  [Removed]
    
        29. Sections 177.818, 177.821, 177.822, and 177.824 would be 
    removed.
        30. Section 177.801 would be revised to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 177.801  Unacceptable hazardous materials shipments.
    
        No person may accept for transportation or transport by motor 
    vehicle a forbidden material or hazardous material that is not prepared 
    in accordance with the requirements of this subchapter.
        31. In Sec. 177.834, paragraph (b) would be removed and reserved, 
    and paragraph (j) would be revised to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 177.834  General requirements.
    
    * * * * *
        (j) Manholes and valves closed. A person may not drive a cargo tank 
    and a motor carrier may not permit a person to drive a cargo tank motor 
    vehicle containing a hazardous material regardless of quantity unless:
        (1) All manhole closures are closed and secured; and
        (2) All valves and other closures in liquid discharge systems are 
    closed and free of leaks.
    * * * * *
    
    
    Sec. 177.835  [Amended]
    
        32. In Sec. 177.835, paragraphs (k), (l), and (m) would be removed.
    
    
    Sec. 177.837  [Amended]
    
        33. In Sec. 177.837, paragraph (d) would be removed.
        34. In Sec. 177.838, paragraph (g) would be revised to read as 
    follows:
    
    
    Sec. 177.838  Class 4 (flammable solid) materials, Class 5 (oxidizing) 
    materials, and Division 4.2 (pyroforic liquid) materials.
    
    * * * * *
        (g) A motor vehicle may only contain 45.4 kg (100 pounds) or less 
    net mass of material described as ``Smokeless powder for small arms, 
    Division 4.1''.
    * * * * *
        35. Section 177.839 would be revised to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 177.839  Class 8 (corrosive) materials.
    
    (See also Sec. 177.834 (a) through (j).)
    
        (a) Nitric acid. No packaging of nitric acid of 50 percent or 
    greater concentration may not be loaded above 
    
    [[Page 6486]]
    any packaging containing any other kind of material.
        (b) Storage batteries. All storage batteries containing any 
    electrolyte must be so loaded, if loaded with other lading, that all 
    such batteries will be protected against other lading falling onto or 
    against them; and adequate means must be provided in all cases for the 
    protection and insulation of battery terminals against short circuits.
        36. In Sec. 177.841, paragraph (d) would be removed and reserved 
    and paragraph (e)(1) would be revised to read as follows.
    
    
    Sec. 177.841  Division 6.1 (poisonous) and Division 2.3 (poisonous gas) 
    materials.
    
    * * * * *
        (e) * * *
        (1) Bearing a POISON label in the same motor vehicle with material 
    that is marked as or known to be foodstuffs, feed or any edible 
    material intended for consumption by humans or animals unless:
        (i) The poisonous material is packaged in accordance with this 
    subchapter and is overpacked in a metal drum as specified in 
    Sec. 173.25(c) of this subchapter; or
        (ii) The poisonous material is packaged in accordance with this 
    subchapter and loaded into a closed unit load device and the 
    foodstuffs, feed, or other edible material are loaded into another 
    closed unit load device;
    * * * * *
    
    
    Sec. 177.848  [Amended]
    
        37-38. In Sec. 177.848, paragraph (e)(5), would be amended by 
    removing the phrase ``ammonium nitrate fertilizer'' and replace it with 
    the phrase ``ammonium nitrate (UN 1942) and ammonium nitrate 
    fertilizer''.
    
    PART 178--SPECIFICATIONS FOR PACKAGINGS
    
        39. The authority citation for part 178 would continue to read as 
    follows:
    
        Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5101-5127; 49 CFR 1.53.
    
    
    Secs. 178.315, 178.315-1, 178.315-2, 178.315-3, 178.315-4, 178.315-
    5  [Removed]
    
        40. Sections 178.315, 178.315-1, 178.315-2, 178.315-3, 178.315-4, 
    and 178.315-5 would be removed.
    
        Issued in Washington, DC on February 12, 1996, under authority 
    delegated in 49 CFR Part 106.
    Alan I. Roberts,
    Associate Administrator for Hazardous Materials Safety.
    [FR Doc. 96-3555 Filed 2-16-96; 8:45 am]
    BILLING CODE 4910-60-P
    
    

Document Information

Published:
02/20/1996
Department:
Research and Special Programs Administration
Entry Type:
Proposed Rule
Action:
Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
Document Number:
96-3555
Dates:
Comments must be received on or before April 19, 1996.
Pages:
6478-6486 (9 pages)
Docket Numbers:
Docket HM-222B, Notice No. 96-3
RINs:
2137-AC76: Revision of Miscellaneous Hazardous Materials Regulations: Regulatory Review
RIN Links:
https://www.federalregister.gov/regulations/2137-AC76/revision-of-miscellaneous-hazardous-materials-regulations-regulatory-review
PDF File:
96-3555.pdf
CFR: (46)
49 CFR 173.4(a)(1)(iv)
49 CFR 173.63(b)
49 CFR 172.702(b)
49 CFR 172.203(c)
49 CFR 172.102(c)(1)
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