# Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel — Hazardous Materials Safety Interpretation **Citation:** 01-0058 **Type / status:** guidance / guidance **Agency:** Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration **Effective:** Not stated **Published:** 2001-04-05 01-0058 response to Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel concerning 172.701. ## Document text <<>> : of Transportation U.S.Department 400 Seventh Street, S.W. Special Programs Research and Washington, D.C. 20590 Administration ARR = 5 2001 Mr. Otis T. Eanes Bridge Tunnel Patroller Ref. No. 01-0058 Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel P.O. Box 6570 Portsmouth, Virginia 23703 Dear Mr. Eanes: Thank you for your February 8, 2001 letter to Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta. Your letter has been referred to this office for response. You ask about state and local routing requirements for the transportation of hazardous materials and specifically about restrictions on the transportation of certain hazardous materials through tunnels. The Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR; 49 CFR Parts 171-180) set forth requirements for persons who offer hazardous materials for transportation or transport hazardous materials in commerce. The HMR explain how to class and package a hazardous material and how the package must be marked and labeled. The HMR also tell how to complete the shipping papers and emergency response information that must accompany a hazardous material shipment. In addition, the HMR tell whether the vehicle in which a hazardous materials shipment is being transported must be placarded and the specific placards that must be used. Finally, the HMR. hazardous materials for shipment. explain training requirements for persons who transport hazardous materials or prepare Hazardous materials transported in commerce, including on state- or privately-owned bridges and tunnels, must conform to all applicable requirements of the HMR. In addition, regulations issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) at 49 CFR Part 397 provide general routing standards for states and Indian tribes that wish to establish highway routing designations for non-radioactive hazardous materials (NRHM). Generally, these regulations require a state or tribal government to make a public finding that NRHM routing designations enhance public safety in both the area subject to its jurisdiction and other areas that are directly affected by the routing designation. In establishing routing designations, a state or Indian tribe must consider a number of factors, including the population potentially exposed to an NRHM release; the characteristics of the highway; the types and quantities of NRHM expected to be transported on the designated route; emergency response capabilities; and exposure and other risk factors. So long as states and Indian tribes comply with these general standards, they have broad discretion to develop routing designations for NRHM. State officials are better positioned than is the federal government to assess local bridge or tunnel conditions, accident histories, emergency <<>> Page 2 response capabilities, alternative routes, and exposure and other risk factors in making such decisions. Similarly, we believe state authorities should be responsible for enforcing any bridge or tunnel restrictions and for training their employees to enforce the restrictions. You should discuss any concerns you may have about hazardous materials transported through the Monitor- Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel with your supervisor. I hope this information is helpful. If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact this office. Sincerely, Office of Hazardous Materials Standards <<>> Gorsky ACTION ederal vs 31,12.101 is assigned to To: state Kegs. Norman Y. Minutia 0 - 005S LIPA Secretary of Transportation, 510 United States Department of Transportation Charles D. Nottingham Commissioner of Transportation, Virginia Departation of Virginia From: Otis I. Eanes Bridge Tunnel Patroller Moniter Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel Date: 08, Feb. 2001 Subject: The Lack of State and/or Federal Rules and Regulations for the State Owned Hampton Roads Area Tunnels References: I. Commonwealth of Virginia Rules and Regulations Governing the Transportation of Hazardous through Bridge Tunnel Facilities. II. Virginia Departation of Transportation State Owned Urban 30-65-10 and 24 VAC 30-65-20 Tunnel Safety Regulation 24 VAC III. Message: D. D. Clark, Assistant Superintendent, June 16, 1999 (Campers and RV) IV. Message: Perry C. Cogburn, Emergency Operation Office, Oct. 13, 2000 (Propane Regulation) - Rules and Regulations Governing the transportation of Hazardous Materials through the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel April 24, 2000. VI. Rules and Regulations Comparison. VII. Fire Protection and Life Safety for Road Tunnels, Fire Protection, Winter 2000. <<>> As a life time resident of Virginia and a two a half year employee of Virginia Department Of Iransportation as a Bridge Tunnel Patroller at the Elizabeth River Tunnel (ERT) and Monitor Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel (MMMBT), and not a disgruntled employee, I feel compel to write this message. I am fifty nine years old and consider myself honored and privileged to work at the MMMBT, which may be the best bridge tunnel facility in the country. The MMMBT and ERT are two of four State Owned Tunnels in the Hampton Roads Area of Virginia that are a vital link in the Interstate 64 System. Prior to this employment, I was honorabled retired as a Federal Employee from the Naval Aviation Depot in Norfolk, Va. after thirty two years of continuous service. I find that the lack of basic instructions pertaining to the transportation of hazardous materials through these State Owned Tunnel Facilities very surprising. It appears that most information is either unknown, ignored or meetings in regards to the transportation of hazardous suppressed. There are no periodical training or shift materials through these State Owned Tunnels. All emphasis would be on the enforcement of the State and/or Federal are on customer service. One would think that the main focus Rules and Regulations pertaining to the transportation of hazardous materials through these State Owned Tunnels with strong emphasis on customer service transportation of hazardous materials through the State limited basic State and no Federal Rules and Regulations at these facilities governing the transportation of hazardous materials through these tunnels. My inquiries, into these matters, has been answered with verbal instructions. The verbal instructions appear to be very limited printed and various opinionated ideas. The printed instructions (Ref I) is very limited in scope, confusing and fails to indicate the maximum number of Non-Bulk containers per vehicle. A print of a State Owned Urban Tunnel Safety Regulation (Ref II) pertaining to vehicles using LP gas appeared at the MMMBT this pass Spring. This instruction states that all vehicles using LP Gas for cooking, heating or refrigeration <<>> must stop at the tunnel's inspection station so that the Tunnel Personnel can conduct a manual inspection to verify that the gas containers are turned off, securely attached and determined to be safe for travel. I have no idea where this regulation came from or where to look to research it. Prior to this regulation (Ref II) we were operating on a honor system pertaining to vehicles carrying IP gas (Ref III). This instruction states that when a driver operating a Camper or RV stops for inspection, take the driver's word that his LP Gas containers are turned off. To even more wonderment, a message from Perry C. Cogburn dated 10-13-2000 (Ref IV) stated that they were trying to implement a district wide Propane/RV Regulation. It would appear, that if the State Owned Urban Tunnel Safety vigorously implemented and enforced. Regulations, (Ref II) İs valid, it would need only to be I have obtained a copy of the rules and regulations governing the transportation of hazardous materials through the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel from their Internet Web Site (Ref V). It is very specific and references the U.S. Department of Transportation Rules and Regulation pertaining to the many hazardous materials that may or may not pass through that facility. I have not been able to locate the Hampton Roads Area (State Owned) Tunnel Rules and Regulation on the Internet. A comparison of the State Owned Tunnel Limited Regulation (Ref I) to the Chesapeake Bay Tunnel Specific Regulation (Ref V) governing the transportation of Non-Bulk hazardous materials through their facilities reveals a various degree of difference (Ref VI). Using FLAMMABLE 3 Non-Bulk liquids as a example, the State Owned Tunnel Limited Regulation (Ref I) is very generous with a maximum of 119 gallons per container and apparently no limitation as to the number of these rolatile FLAMMABLE 3 Non-Bulk liquid in a single tracto railer truck could pass through the State Owned Tunnels a: per this instruction. Regulation on FLAMMABLE 3 Non-Bulk liquid, following U.s. Department of Transportation Regulations, has a total not to chesapeake Bay Tunnel (Private Owned) and the Hampton Roads Area Tunnels (State Owned) do not have to operate by the same rules and regulation. A catastropnic Iire accident involving a truck carrying Owned Tunnels, that approached the magnitude of the tunnel che Ilberal Non-Bulk hazardous materials in any of the State <<>> fires that occurred in Europe in 1999 (Ref VII) would have a profound disastrous effect on commerce and travel in the Hampton Roads Area. Iwo of these European Tunnel Fires during the first half of 1999 led to 51 fatalities and at 0t 1999 Lea least 79 injuries, millons of dollars in damages and time. rendered the tunnels inoperative for an extended length of In light of these disastrous tunnel fires that occurred in Europe, the liberal hazardous material limits of the State Owned Tunnels should be revisited. A new set of rules and regulations governing the transportation of hazardous materials through the State Owned Tunnels should be initiated using the Chesapeake Bay Tunnel's Rules and Regulations format. A copy of all State and/or Federal Rules • and Regulations pertaining to the transportation of hazardous material through the State Owned Tunnels should be readily accessible on each of the Tunnel's Internet Web site and the Tunnel's Iraffic Control Room. A clear and decisive educational program should be initiated and aggressively implemented to inform the tunnel personnel and traveling public about these State and/or Federal Rules and tunnel personnel in Regulations. Periodic training and certification of the should be required. regards to these rules and regulations Dio T. Fans Otis T. Eanes Home: 12238 Old Suffolk Rd. Windsor, Va. 23487 (757) 242-6886 Work: Monitor Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel PO Box 6570 Portsmouth, (757) 247-2100 Va. 23703 CC: B. J. Wilkerson Facility Manager, Monitor Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel <<>> U.S.Department of Transportation 400 Seventh Street, SW Special Programs Research and Washington, D.C. , 20590 Administration ARR = 5 2001 Mr. Otis T. Eanes Bridge Tunnel Patroller Ref. No. 01-0058 Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel P.O. Box 6570 Portsmouth, Virginia 23703 • Dear Mr. Eanes: Thank you for your February 8, 2001 letter to Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta. Your letter has been referred to this office for response. You ask about state and local routing requirements for the transportation of hazardous materials and specifically about restrictions on the transportation of certain hazardous materials through tunnels. The Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR; 49 CFR Parts 171-180) set forth requirements for persons who offer hazardous materials for transportation or transport hazardous materials in commerce. The HMR explain how to class and package a hazardous material and how the package must be marked and labeled. The HMR also tell how to complete the shipping papers and emergency response information that must accompany a hazardous material shipment. In addition, the HMR tell whether the vehicle in which a hazardous materials shipment is being transported must be placarded and the specific placards that must be used. Finally, the FMR hazardous materials for shipment. explain training requirements for persons who transport hazardous materials or prepare Hazardous materials transported in commerce, including on state- or privately-owned bridges and tunnels, must conform to all applicable requirements of the HMR. In addition, regulations issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) at 49 CFR Part 397 provide general routing standards for states and Indian tribes that wish to establish highway routing designations for non-radioactive hazardous materials (NRHM). Generally, these regulations require a state or tribal government to make a public finding that NRHM routing designations enhance public safety in both the area subject to its jurisdiction and other areas that are directly affected by the routing designation. In establishing routing designations, a state or Indian tribe must consider a number of factors, including the population potentially exposed to an NRHM release; the characteristics of the highway; the types and quantities of NRHM expected to be transported on the designated route; emergency response capabilities; and exposure and other risk factors. So long as states and Indian tribes comply with these general standards, they have broad discretion to develop routing designations for NRHM. State officials are better positioned than is the federal government to assess local bridge or tunnel conditions, accident histories, emergency <<>> • Page 2 response capabilities, alternative routes, and exposure and other risk factors in making such decisions. Similarly, we believe state authorities should be responsible for enforcing any bridge or tunnel restrictions and for training their employees to enforce the restrictions. You should discuss any concerns you may have about hazardous materials transported through the Monitor- Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel with your supervisor. I hope this information is helpful. If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to contact this office. Sincerely, Office of Hazardous Materials Standards <<>> .. : Gorsky $ 172.707 ACTION To: Lederal Norman I. Minutia 0 - 0058 Us State Kegs. sissier to KIPA Secretary of Transportation, Transportation United States Department of 500 Charles D. Nottingham Commissioner of Transportation, Virginia Departation of Virginia From: otis I. Eanes Bridge Tunnel Patroller Moniter Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel Date: 08, Feb. 2001 Subject: The Lack of State and/or Federal Rules and Regulations for the State Owned Hampton Roads Area Tunnels References: I. Commonwealth of Virginia Rules and Regulations Governing the Bridge Tunnel Facilities. Transportation of Hazardous through II. Virginia Departation of Transportation State Owned Urban • Tunnel Safety Regulation 24 VAC 30-65-10 and 24 VAC 30-65-20 • III. Message: D. D. Clark, Assistant Superintendent, June 16, 1999 (Campers and RV) IV. Message: Perry C. Cogburn, Emergency Operation Office, Oct. 13, 2000 (Propane Regulation) -- V. Rules and Regulations Governing the • Transportation of Hazardous Materials through the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel April 24, 2000. • VI. Rules and Regulations Comparison. VII. Fire Protection and Life Safety for Road Tunnels, Fire Protection, Winter 2000. <<>> As a life time resident of Virginia and a two a hali year employee of Virginia Department 0f Transportation as a Bridge Tunnel Patroller at the Elizabeth River Tunnel (ERI) and Monitor Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel (MMMBI), and not a disgruntled employee, I feel compel to write this message. fifty nine years old and consider myself honored and privileged to work at the MMMBI, which may be the best bridge tunnel facility in the country. The MMMBT and ERT are two of four State Owned Tunnels in the Hampton Roads Area of Virginia that are a vital link in the Interstate 64 System. Prior to this employment, I was honorabled retired as a Va. after thirty two years of continuous service. Federal Employee from the Naval Aviation Depot in Norfolk, I find that the lack of basic instructions pertaining to the transportation of hazardous materials through these State Owned Tunnel Facilities very surprising. It appears that most information is either unknown, ignored or suppressed. There are no periodical training or shift meetings in regards to the transportation of hazardous materials through these State Owned Tunnels. All emphasis are on customer service. One would think that the main focus would be on the enforcement of the State and/or Federal. Rules and Regulations pertaining to the transportation of hazardous materials through these State Owned Tunnels with strong emphasis on customer service . In an attempt to gain information concerning the transportation of hazardous materials through the State Owned Tunnels, my efforts has been met with confusion, disappointment and frustration. There appears to be very limited basic State and no Federal Rules and Regulations at these facilities governing the transportation of hazardous materials through these tunnels. My inquiries, into these matters, has been answered with very limited printed and verbal instructions. The verbal instructions appear to be various opinionated ideas. The printed instructions (Ref I) is very limited in scope, confusing and fails to indicate the maximum number of Non-Bulk containers per vehicle. A print of a State Owned Urban Tunnel Safety Regulation (Ref II) pertaining to vehicles using IP gas appeared at the MMMBT this pass Spring. This instruction states that all vehicles using LP Gas for cooking, heating or refrigeration <<>> must stop at the tunnel's inspection station so that the Tunnel Personnel can conduct a manual inspection to verify that the gas containers are turned off, securely attached and determined to be safe for travel. I have no idea where this regulation came from or where to look to research it. Prior to this regulation (Ref II) we were operating on a honor system pertaining to vehicles carrying LP gas (Ref III). This instruction states that when a driver operating a Camper o1 RV stops for inspection, the Tunnel Patroller will take the driver's word that his LP Gas containers are turned off. To even more wonderment, a message from Perry C. Cogburn dated 10-13-2000 (Ref IV) stated that they were trying to implement a district wide Propane/RV Regulation. It would appear, that if the State Owned Urban Tunnel Safety Regulations vigorously implemented and enforced. (Re[. II) is valid, it would need only to be I have obtained a copy of the rules and regulations governing the transportation of hazardous materials through the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel from their Internet Web Site (Ref V). It is very specific and references the U.S. Department of Transportation Rules and Regulation pertaining to the many hazardous materials that may or may not pass through that facility. I have not been able to locate the Hampton Roads Area (State Owned) Tunnel Rules and Regulation on the Internet. A comparison of the State Owned Tunnel Limited Regulation (Ref I) to the Chesapeake Bay Tunnel Specific Regulation (Ref V) governing the transportation of Non-Bulk hazardous materials through their facilities reveals a various degree of difference (Ref VI). Using FLAMMABLE 3 Non-Bulk liquids as a example, the State Owned Tunnel Limited Regulation (Ref I) is very generous with a maximum of 119 gallons per container and apparently no limitation as to the number of these containers per vehicle. Thousands of gallons oi nighly volatile FLAMMABLE 3 Non-Bulk liquid in a single tractor trailer truck could pass through the State Owned Tunnels as per this instruction. The Chesapeake Bay Tunnel Specific Regulation on FLAMMABLE 3 Non-Bulk liquid, following U.S. Department of Transportation Regulations, has a total not to exceed 120 gallons in 6 gallon containers or less per Chesapeake Bay Tunnel (Private Owned) and the Hampton Roads vehicle. I have been told, by Management, that the Area Tunnels same rules and •(State Owned) do not have to operate by the regulation. A catastrophic fire accident involving a truck carrying the liberal Non-Bulk hazardous materials in any of the State Owned Tunnels, that approached the magnitude of the tunnel <<>> fires that occurred in Europe in 1999 (Ref VII) would have a profound disastrous effect on commerce and travel in the Hampton Roads Area. Iwo of these European Tunnel Fires during the first half of 1999 led to 51 fatalities and at least 79 injuries, millons of dollars in damages and time. rendered the tunnels inoperative for an extended length of In light of these disastrous tunnel fires that occurred in Europe, the liberal hazardous material limits of the State Owned Tunnels should be revisited. A new set of rules and regulations governing the transportation of hazardous materials through the State Owned Tunnels should be initiated using the Chesapeake Bay Tunnel's Rules and Regulations format. A copy of all State and/or Federal Rules and Regulations pertaining to the transportation of hazardous material through the State Owned Tunnels should be readily accessible on each of the Tunnel's Internet Web Site and the Tunnel's Traffic Control Room. A clear and decisive educational program should be initiated and aggressively implemented to inform the tunnel personnel and traveling public about these state and/or Federal Rules and Regulations. Periodic training and certification of the tunnel personnel in regards to these rules and regulations be required. • T. tours - Otis T. Eanes Home: 12238 Old Suffolk Rd. Windsor, Va. 23487 (757) 242-6886 work: Monitor Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel PO Box 6570 Portsmouth, (757) 247-2100 Va. 23703 Cc: B. J. , Wilkerson Facility Manager, Monitor Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel <<>> Ref I Page lapz COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA Rules and Regulations Governing the Transportation of Hazardous Materials * through Bridge-Tunnel Facilities § 1. Authority. This regulation is promulgated under the Administrative Process Act (APA) (Chapter 1.1:1, $ 9-6.14;1 et seq, of Tide 9) of the regulate its use." It applies to all bridge-tunnel facilities in the Commonwealth of Virginia, and establishes the rules.by which all interstate, intrastate, and public and private transporters of hazardous materials are governed while traveling through these facilities.. It becomes effective if approved by the Commonwealth Transportation Board, and if YDOT reccives no gubernatorial or legislative objection during the statutory review and post-publication periods required by the APA. § 2. List of bridge-tunnel facilities owned by the Commonwealth: The following table lists the six state. owned bridge-tunnel facilities in the Commonwealth. The Virginia Department of Transportation operates all six facilities listed. Name of Facility : Telephone Number Boute Big Walker Mountain Tunnel 703-228-5571 Inferstate 77 East River Mountain Tunnel 703-928-1994 Interstate 77 Elizabeth River Tunnel-Downtown 804-494-2424 Interstate 264 Elizabeth River Tunnel-Midtown 804-683-8123 Route 58 Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel 804-727-4832 Interstate 64. ! Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge-Tunnel 804-247-2123 Interstate 664 For purposes of this regulation, the facilities listed above are classified into two groups: fural and essentially distanced, from bodies of water; and urban and essentially proximate to bodies ofiwater. § 3. Restrictions on hazardous material transportation across rural and, distanced-from-water facilities, Tunnel. For these two tunnels, and these two only, no restrictions apply on the transport of hazardous materials, so long as transporters The two rural and distanced-from- water tunnel facilities, are: The Big Walker Mountain Tunnel and The East River Mountain and shippers are in compliance with the Code of Federal Regulations, 49, Parts 100 through 180; and any present, and future state reg: ulations which may become in force to implement the federal regulations. In addition, the Commonwealth Transportation Commissioner: may, at any time, impose emergency or temporary restrictions on the transport of hazardous materials through these facilities, sa long.- as sufficient advanced signage is positioned to allow for a reasonable detour. number: (804-786-6824). Copies of the regulation will be provided free of charge. For copies, please write to: Virginia Departmentof Questions on this section of the regulation should be directed to the VDOT Emergency Operations Center at the following, telephone: Transportation, ATTN: Emergency Operations Center, 1221 East Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219. § 4. Restrictions on hazardous material transportation across urban and water-proximate facilities. Hazardous materials are regulated in the four urban and water-proximate tunnels. (Elizabeth River (Midtown and Dowptown),.. Hampton Roads, and Monitor-Merrimac) based exclusively on the "hazard class". ofithe material being conyeyed: The following tables list those categories of materials grouped under the designations "Prohibited, "No Restrictions," or "Restricted," **PIcase contact the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel at (804) 331-2960 for information on their regulațion. <<>> ....... Rules and Regulations Governing the Transportation of Hazardous Materials through Bridge-Tunnel Facilities PROHIBITED: Materials defined in the following hazard classes are not allowed passage through the four urban tunnels. POISON DANGEROUS POISON Explosives 1.1 Explosives 1.2 Explosives 1.3 Poison Gas 2.3 Dangerous When Wet Poison (PG I, 4.3 inhalation hazard aly) RESTRICTED: Materials in the following hazard classes are allowed access to the four urban tunnels in "Non-bulk" (maximum capacity of 450 liters/119 gallons or less as a receptacle for liquids, a water capacity of 454 kilograms/1000 pounds or less as a receptacle for gases, and a maximum net mass of 400 kilograms/882 pounds or less and a maximum capacity of 450 liters/119 gallons or less as a receptacle for solids) quantities per coptainer.only. FLAMMABLE GAS FLAMMABLE COXINZER 3 CORROSIVE Flammable Gas 2.1 Flammable 3 Oxidizer 5.1 Organic Peroxide 5.2 Corrosive. ! 8 NO RESTRICTIONS: Materials in the following hazard classes are not restricted in the four urban tunnels. GuS COMSUSTIBLE - Explosives 3 1.4 Explosives 1.5 «Explosives 1.6 Non-Flammable| Gas Combustible 2.2 Liquid Flaminable 3 Solid 4.1 ANTANCO: Nook POISON RADLACTVE Spontaneously Combustible Poison 4.2 (PG I or II. Stow Away Etiologic Agent other than PG 1 rom Foodstuff (no Placard) Radioactive inhalation (PG III) hazard) 6.1 6.2 Class? (No Placard) ORM-D 6.1 : <<>> RefeReNCe It VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Pase log z STATE-OWNED URBAN TUNNEL SAFETY REGULATION 4LVAC 30-65-10. Applicability of regulation "This regulation applies to vehicles using liquefied petroleim (LP) gas (also known as propane gas) for cooking, heating, refrigeration that travel on the following facilities in the Hampton Roads (formerly Suffolk) Construction District: Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel (I-64) Monitor Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel (I-664) Elizabeth River Tunnel - Midtown (Rt. 58) Elizabeth River Tunnel - Downtown (I-264) • 24 VAC 30-65-20. Requirements for use of affected transportation facilities A. Vehicles using liquefied petroleum (LP) gas for cooking, heating, or refrigeration purposes are permitted to use the facilities designated in 24 VAC 30-65-10 provided that the following requirements are met: 1. House trailers, campers, or other recreational vehicles shall not have more than two LP • gas containers, having a maximum individual water capacity (WC) of (141) Ibs., or (17) gal. (approximately (60) Ibs. LP gas capacity). The designation "water capacity" is shown on the valve cover or identification plate, and may be listed in pounds or gallons. 2. LP gas containers must be constructed, installed, and maintained in accordance with 49 CFR Parts 100-180. 3. Vehicles designated in 24 VAC 30-65-20 (A) must stop at inspection stations designated by appropriate signs or markers. <<>> Ref It Page 2af Z h/personnelmust conduct a masal inspection ofathe Lygas, containers, to varify That they ane valved off securely, a fached, and determined to be safe fortrayel. i gas container valves mustremain cosed untiltherehicle has cleared the facility. If vehicles designated in 24 VAC 30-65-20 (A) fail to stop for inspection, all traffic shall be stopped at the entrance to the facility until an inspection is conducted, and facility operations determine that the vehicle is safe for travel 24 VAC 30-65-30. Listing of documents incorporated by reference. Information pertaining to the availability and cost of any of these publications should be directed to the division indicated, by writing to the Virginia Department of Transportation, 1401 East Broad Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219, or to the address indicated. 1. (24 VAC 30-61-10 et seq.) Rules and Regulations Governing the Transportation of Hazardous Materials Through Bridge-Tunnel Facilities (Maintenance Division) • es. • 1. <<>> Ref III. Page lof 1 ALL: • SHIFTS 1 Petway, Truman. From: Sent: Wednesday, June 16, 1999 11:20 AM Clark, D. D. To: Suffolk MMMBT Traffic Control Supervisors; Suffolk MMMBT Bridge Tunnel Patrol Supervisors; Suffolk MMMBT Traffic Controllers Subject: Cc: Heath, Harold R. Campers and RV's In an effort to provide good customer service and to eliminate questions that may arise about Campers and RV's and checking their gas bottles. When a Camper or RV stops for inspection and the BTP asks if the gas is off and the operator of the Camper or RV states that it is, "We will take his word for, it", give him a pamphlet and thank him. Direct any questions to Mr. Heath or myself. <<>> - ....mar-t. Ref II Page lofl J. E. "'im "Harrison Facility Manager HRBT Original Message- Cogburn, Perry C. Nelson, Harold; Heath, Harold R.; Krodel, Debbie Friday, October 13, 2000 4:44 PM Wilkerson, Bruce J.; Harrison, Jim E; Mathus, William A Propane regulation On our way to trying to implement a district wide propane/RV regulation we have run into a information that I do not think we currently possess. If I am wrong please do not hesitate to stumbling blocked named the Department of Planning and Budget. They have requested some stopped actually had to turn the propane off. Would you ask the attendants to start keeping track correct me. They wanted to know how many RV's used the facility and how many who have • of the number of RV's that had to turn off the valves. While you are doing that, I have to find out how many tunnels in the United States restrict or check RV's. If you have some questions on this, please let me know. 804-786-6824 Perry • • • <<>> -hesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel -- Hazardous materials 1 Page 1 of 10 Ref K Hazardour Material BRULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNINGØ THE TRANSPORTATION OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS THROUGH THE CHESAPEAKE BAY BRIDGE-TUNNEL @ PROHIBITED: Materials defined in the following hazard classes are not allowed passage across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel: PLOSIVE EXPLOSIVES 1.1, EXPLOSIVES 1.2, EXPLOSIVES 1.3, EXPLOSIVES POISON DANGEROUS WHEN GAS POISON 2 6 http://www.cbbt.com/hazmat.html 11/12/2000 <<>> *Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel -- Hazardous materials 1 Page 2 of 10 2.3, POISON GAS 4.3, DANGEROUS WHEN WET 6.1, INHALATION HAZARD ONLY ... .. FORBIDDEN MATERIALS •1' NO RESTRICTIONS: Materials defined in the following hazard classes are not restricted from crossing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel unless exceptions are noted: 1.4, EXPLOSIVES 1.5, EXPLOSIVES 1.6, EXPLOSIVES NON-FLAMMABLE COMBUSTIBLE GAS IARMFU TOWAW, FOODSTUFF FROM 6 http://www.cbbt.com/hazmat.html 11/12/2000 <<>> *Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel -- Hazardous materials 1 Page 3 of 10 MATERIALS: (PG 1 OR II, 6.1, POISONOUS 2.?; NON#LAMMABLE except for oxygen in tank COMPRESSED GAS, 3, COMBUSTIBLE LIQUD, OTHER THAN PG 1 except formaldehyde solutions INHALATION HAZARD, vehicles, which is prohibited which are restricted to 100 AND PG 111, STOW AWAY gallon containers or less POISONOUS MATERIALS, FROM FOODSTUFF) 6.1 except inhalation hazards, which are prohibited •1.. 6:2, INFECTIOUS SUBSTANCES REGULATED MATERIALS ORM-D, OTHER RESTRICTED: Materials in the following hazärd classes are allowed passage across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge -Tunnel with noted restrictions: FLAMMABLE FLAMMABLE CAS 3 2.1 FLAMMABLE GAS - not containers or less éxcépt for to exceed 120 gals in 6. gal two 60 pound cylinders LPG LPG, which is restricted to 3, FLAMMABLE LIQUID - 4.1, FLAMMABLE SOLID - capacity (approx. 141 pounds not to exceed 120 gals in 6 gal not to exceed 900 pounds per 'combination of cylinders less w.c. each), or any containers or less vehicle than 60 pounds LPG capacity with a total of 120 gals http://www.cbbt.com/hazmat.html 11/12/2000 <<>> hesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel -- Hazardous materials 1 Page 4 of 10 "... SPONTANEOUSLY COMRUSTIBLE OXIDIZER ORGANIC PEROXIDE 51 52 4:2, SPONTANEOUSLY MATERIALS - not to exceed COMBUSTIBLE 5.1, OXIDIZER - not to exceed 120 gals in 6 gal 5.2, ORGANIC PEROXIDES 900 pounds, per vehicle containers or less or 900 - not to exceed 120 gals in 6 pounds or less per vehicle gal containers or less or 900 pounds or less per vehicle RADIOACTIVE CORROSIVE 11 8 HAZARDOUS MATERIAL - 9, MISCELLANEOUS MATERIALS - not to exceed 7 RADIOACTIVE 8, CORROSIVE: MATERIALS - not to exceed not to exceed 250 gals in 60 300 curies or 500 pounds per 120 gals in 60 gal containers gal containers or less or 2000 vehicle and permission is or less or 900 pounds or less N.O.S., with flashpoint not pounds or less, except oils, obtained less than 93 deg C/ 200 deg F, which is not restricted • REFERENCE INDEX 1. Definitions . A: The following classes of hazardous materials are defined in the United States Department of Transportation Regulations, 49 CFR 173, which is incorporated by reference: Name of Class or Division Class Division 49 CFR Number Number Reference for (if any) Definitions (1) Forbidden materials None - - http://www.cbbt.com/hazmat.html 11/12/2000 <<>> mesapeake bay bridge-Tunnel -- Hazardous materials 1 • Page 5 of 10 (2) Explosives (with a. mass, explosion hazard) 1 1.l 173.50 (3); Explosives (with a projection hazard) 1 1.2 173.50 (4) Explosives (with predominantly a fire hazard). 1 1.3 173.50 (5) Explosives (with no significant blast hazard) 1 1.4 173.50 (6) Very insensitive explosives; blasting agents 1 1.5 173.50 (7) Extremely insensitive detonating substances 1 •i.. 1.6 173.50 (8) Flammable gas 2 201 173.115 (9) Nonflammable compressed gas 2 • 2.2 173.115 (10) Poisonous gas 2 2.3 173.115 (11) Flammầble and combustible liquid ... - ' 173.120 ....; (12) Flammable solid 4 4.1 173.124 (13) Spontaneously . combustible materials 4 • 4.2 173.124 1*=. (14) Dangerous when wet material 4 4.3 173.124 (15) Oxidizers 5 5.1 173.127 (16) Organic peroxides 5 5.2 173.128 (17) Poisonous materials 6 6.1 173.132 hittp://www.cbbt.com/hazmat.html 11/12/2000 <<>> Lage o of 10 (18) Infectious substances (Etiological agents): - 6 6.2 173.134 (19) Radioactive materials 7 • i. 173.403 (20): Corrosive materials 8 173.136 21) Miscellaneous: hazardous materials 9 :: 1.. 173.140 (22) Other regulated materials: ORM-D None *, 173.144 : • B: Terms Defined. ..... •. (1) "Container" means a package or receptacle used to contain hazardous materials for transportation, including. a box, bottle, can, drum, barrel, cylinder, carboy, or other shipping hazardous materials. package, other.than a tank vehicle, or bulk packaging, used for the transportation of (2) "Flash Point" means the minimum temperature at which a substance gives off Mammable vapors which in contact with spark or flame will ignite. (3) "'Gross weight" means the total weight of a container and its contents. (4) "Hazardous material means a substance or material, including a hazardous substance, which has been determined by the Secretary of Transportation for the United States Department of Transportation (U.S.D.O.T.) to be capable of posing an unreasonable designated. risk to health, safety and property when transported in commerce and which has been so *(5) "Hazardous substance" means a material, including its mixtures and solutions, that is listed in the Appendix to 49 CFR 172.101, which is incorporated by reference. This definition does not apply to petroleum products that are lubricants or fuels. (6) "N.O.S." means not otherwise specified. (7) "Net weight" means the weight of the contents of a container only. (8) "Shipping paper" means a manifest, memorandum receipt, bill of lading, shipping order, or other document describing material to be transported. (9) "Tank vehicle" means any vehicle with a cargo tank, portable tank, bulk pyramided cylinders, or, tube trailer used for the transportation of liquids or gases. 2. General thttp://www.cbbt.com/hazmat.html 11/12/2000 j <<>> A. The U.S. Department of Transportation Regulations, 49 CFR 171-177, 397, and any revisions, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission Regulations, 10. CFR 73, and any additional federal regulations affecting the transportation of hazardous materials by motor carriers on highways are incorporated by reference into these regulations. B. A vehicle loaded with any hazardous material or a tank vehicle which last contained a hazardous material may not be allowed on or in the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel District unless it conforms to these regulations and other regulations regarding the use of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel District. C. Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel District employees shall have the right to inspect the cargo or shipping. papers of any vehicle to ascertain if it complies with all State and federal regulations relating to the transportation of hazardous materials. The inspection may take place at any point where or after the vehicle enters on any District property or its approaches. If hazardous materials cannot be identified by class, or if listed only as N.O.S., or if shipping papers are not available to determine the type of cargo, the vehicle may be prohibited from entering or may be diverted off any District property. . *) D. For purposes of initiating an inspection under Section C of this regulation, a vehicle displaying the hazardous material identification number, 1203 on a "Flammable" placard is presumed to be transporting the hazardous material with the lowest flashpoint which legally can bé transported under that identification number. E. All standards and requirements imposed by the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel District which are incorporated by reference, shall be enforced. I. The Executive Director or the Director of Operations of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge- Tunnel District may waive portions of these Rules and Regulations in unusual circumstances provided safeguards are implemented to protect the facility and traveling public. 3. Alternative-Fuel Vehicles. • * :A. Alternative-fuel vehicles powered by liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), liquefied natural gas (LNG) or compressed natural gas (CNG) shall be permitted if the: (1) Vehicle has a: : (a) Dedicated alternative-fuel system installed by the manufacturer of the vehicle; or (b) Fuel system which has been properly converted to an alternative fuel system. (2) Vehicle alternative-fuel system conforms to applicable industry standards, including: (a) NFPA 52 - Standard for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Vehicular Fuel Systems, which is incorporated by reference; or (b) NFPA 58 - Standard for the Storage and Handling of Liquefied Petroleum Gases (LPG), which is incorporated by reference. http://www.cbbt.com/hazmat.html 11/12/2000 .... <<>> Page 8 ot 10 (3). Vehicle alternative-fuel system conforms to applicable federal regulations. "ir (4): Fuel capacity of the vehicle does not exceed 300 pounds water capacity. B. Alternative-fuel vehicles shall display all markings and symbols required by law or regúlation to identify the alternative-fuel system: 4. Tunnel Restrictions. vehicle, or in the fuel systems of vehicles and equipment being towed or carried.. A. This regulation does not apply to fuel contained in the fuel systeni of the transporting B. Flames used for heating vehicles or loads shall be extinguished before the vehicle enters the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel or its approaches. through the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, as indicated: C. The following classes of hazardous materials are prohibited from being transported (1) Forbidden materials are prohibited; (2) Class 1 explosives, division 1.1, 1.2, and 1.3 are prohibited; (3) Class 2, division 2.3 poisonóus gas, is prohibited; . (4) Class 4, division 4.3 dangerous when wet materials, are prohibited; (S) Class 6, division 6.1 poisonous materials, if inhalation hazard exists, are prohibited; D. Tank vehicles which are empty, or which have a residue, or vehicles transporting empty containers are prohibited from entering the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel if they previously transported a prohibited hazardous material, with the following exceptions: (1) Tank vehicles or containers that have been sufficiently cleaned of residue and purged of vapor to remove any potential hazard; (2) Tank vehicles or containers that have been reloaded with a material not classified as a hazardous material; (3) Tank vehicles or containers whose previous cargo was: (a) A Class 3 combustible liquid; (b) A Class 8 corrosive material; (c) A Class 5 oxidizer; (d) A Class 5 organic peroxide; or (4) Completely empty containers whose previous cargo was a Class 3 flammable liquid. http://www.cbbt.com/hazmat.html 11/12/2000 <<>> Chesapeake Bay Bridge-l unnel -- Hazaraous mattrills 1 140- sadE. Tank vehicles used to transport Class 3 flammable liquids, even if empty, are prohibited from entering the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. F! The following classes: of hażardous materials are permitted to cross the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, with or without restrictions, as indicated: (1) Class 1 explosives, division 1.4, 1.5, and 1.6 are permitted; - (2) Class.2;, division 2.1 flammable gas is permitted provided quantities do not exceed 120 gallons in 6 gallon containers or less, with exceptions for LPG, which is restricted to two 60 pound cylinders LPG capacity, approximately 141 pounds water capacity each, or any : combination of cylinders less than 60 pounds LiPG capacity, with a total of 120 pounds LPG capacity; (3) Class 2, division 2.2 nonflammable compressed gas, is permitted with the exception of oxygen, which is prohibited if in tank vehicles; (4) Class 3, Mammable liquid, having a flash point below 100° Fis permitted provided quantities do not exceed 120; gallons in 6 gallor containers or less per vehicle; (5) -Class 3, combustible liquid, having a flash point above 100° F, is permitted with the exception of formaldehyde solutions which are restricted to 100 gallon containers or less; (6) Class 4, division 4.1 flammable solid, is permitted provided quantities do not exceed 900 pounds per vehicle; (7) Class 4, division 4.2 spontaneously combustible materials, are permitted provided quantities do not exceed 900 pounds per vehicle; (8) Class 5, division 5.1 oxidizers, are permitted provided quantities do not exceed 120 gallons in 6 gallon containers or less or 900 pounds or less, per vehicle; (9) Class 5, division 5.2 organic peroxides, are permitted provided quantities do not exceed 120 gallons in 6 gallon containers or less or 900 pounds or less, per vehicle; (10) Class 6, division 6.1 poisonous materials not marked PG I (Inhalation Hazard), or PG I (Stow Away From Foodstuffs), are permitted; (11) Class 6, division 6.2 infectious substances, are permitted; (12) Class 7, radioactive materials, are permitted provided quantities do not exceed 300 curies and the gross weight does not exceed 500 pounds per vehicle and permission is obtained; (13) Class 8, corrosive materials, are permitted provided quantities do not exceed 120 gallons in 60 gallon containers or less or 900 pounds or less, per vehicle; (14) Class 9, miscellaneous hazardous materials, are permitted provided quantities do not http://www.cbbt.com/hazmat.html 11/12/2000 <<>> chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel -- Hazardous materials 1 Page 10 of 10 exceed 250 gallons: in 60 gallon containers or less or 2000 pounds per vehicle, with the exception: of oils, N.O.S., with a flashpoint not less than 93°C/200°F, which are not restricted; (15) Other regulated materials, ORM-D are permitted. 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Meeting Notice : Page last updated 8/31/2000 ... - : • http://www.cbbt.com/hazmat.html 11/12/2000 • <<>> page lof/ Ref IL Rules and Regulations Comparison (Limits for Non-Bulk) Chesapeake Bay Hazardous Bridge Tunnel Hampton Roads Materials Classes (RefV) Tunnels (Ref I) Flammable Gas 2.1 120 gallons max per Water capacity of 454 vehicle in 6 gallon kg or 1000 ibs per containers except container* LPG 120 gallons max in 60 pounds containers Flammable liquid 3 120 gallons max per 450 liters / 119 vehicle in 6 gallon gallons max per containers containers* Flammable Solid 4.1 900 lbs per vehicle None Spontaneously 4.2 900lbs per vehicle None combustible Oxidizer 5.1 120 gallons max per 450 liters/ 119 gallons vehicle in 6 gallon or 400 kg / 882 Ibs containers or 900 lbs max per containers* per vehicle Organic peroxide 5.2 120 gallons max per 450 liters/119 gallons vehicle in 6 gallon or 400 kg / 882 Ibs containers or 900 lbs max per containers* per vehicle Radioactive 7 300 curies or 500 lbs None per vehicle Corrosive 8 120 gallons max per 450 liters/119 gallons vehicle in 6 gallon or 400 kg/882 lbs containers or 900 lbs max per containers* per vehicle Miscellaneous 9 250 gallons max per None Hazardous vehicle in 60 gallon containers or 2000 lbs per vehicle * No limit on the number of containers per vehicle • <<>> Reference Bli This was the , ThAT best copy ObtAiN. Off Fire Protection and Life Surety for ROAD TUNNELS By Christian Dubay 'to major road tunnel fires durr i thee first half of 1000 have led to : understa of these mol tunnel fires was of a Etalitics and at least 79 injuries. Each princip Recentifi Tauren tunnet magnitucle that has not been experi- that tunnel fires car enced in decades. These fires have led. magnitudes where supi proacha tion and life safety for road tunnels. to a heightened interest in fire protec- cult, if not impossible: These dies have occupants. highlighted the need for tunnels tunnels 190 m (300 ft) - 240 m (80C or medium length road cumentals of fire protection and life Thus article will address the basic fun- designed to maximize the fire and life f0)), motorists cin be directed to egress safety while ensuring that then an incident occurs, proper planning and nel portal shile traffic controls to redli- asay from the fire to the nearest tun- safety design for rond tunnels. Many of tamed in NFPA 502, Standard for Roid the requirements and discussions, con- training have been in place. Such rect or stop vehicles and standpipes cue, coordinated ventilation efforts. items as communication, egress, res- within the tunnel. for fire department use are provided Tunnels. Bridges pard Other Limited throughout the article. As with any Access Highways,vare covered extinguishment and system religbility have now moved to the forefront of i (800 ft)) require many design con- Long road tunnels greater than 210 project or clesign. it is imperative to tions. design, engineering and tunnel opera- siderations to ensure the life safely of neers and to seck the required special- knour our limits as fire protection engi- requirements for road tunnels based NFPA 502 addresses fire protection the tunnel.' The Mont Bland and the motorists and the fire protection of ized technical expertise when address- Tauren road tumnels, with lengths of torrespond to traditional methods or ing hazards that do not necessarily upon the length of the road tunnel. 11600 m (38,057 ft and 6397 m chan 90m (300 fo). fire protection and With many short road tunnels [less (20.987 lt) respectively, clearly ilfustral- thinhing. Many of the traditional meth- ed the damatic effect long road tun- exls of fire suppression and ventilation life safely can he accomplisted with nels can have on fire spread smoke de nes hold true in the tunnel environ- relative ease by providing motorists movement, life safety and fire protec- men. Applying suitable methods tunnel and asay from the fire incident. with evacuation routes through the tion. For esample, many of the fatali- requires experience and a detailed tiess at the Mont Blanc fire were found WINTER 2000 Fire Protection Engineering 19 <<>> .. - Page 2af 7 Major Road Tunnel Fires of the 1900s Road Tunnel Date Falalities Injuries Cause/Problems Holland, New York 05/13/49 2600 m 0 66 All cabling and wiring damaged or destroyed during fire. Truck 8,530 ft carrying prohibited cargo (carbon disulfide) lost cargo, which ignited upon impact with the road surface. Nihonzaka, Japan 07/11/79 • - --7... four targe trucks and two autos involved'in colliston where splied fuel ignited. Fire controlled and extingulshed 7 days after intal 2042 m incident Of the 231 vehicles and trucks in tunnel duding incident 6,700 ft 173 were destroyed. Ceiling; wals and tunnel systems almost completely destroyed for the central 1145 meters. of the tunnel. Mont Blanc, France 03/24/99 39 30 Truck carrying flour and margarine ignites during passage through tunnel. 35 vehicles destroyed, including 20 trucks. 11600 m Tunnel celling collapses and many of the tunnel systems were 38,057 St destroyed. Estimates predict that the tunnel will be closed for approximately 1 year. Taur 6397 m 20,897 ft had time to egress from their rehicles still sitting in their vehicles, not having fire rithin a tunnel are of unost fication and location identification of CONILUNICATION SYSTEMS helure bring overcome. There are ser- kressed for all Jong road tunnel cral hey clements that need to he importance in providing the required protection. NFPA 502 requires at least Communications vith the tunnel two means to detect, identify and occupants, tunnel operators and the designs and egaluations: these include: locate a fire in a tunnel! Often the two local fire deparment are essential to control sprinklers, standpipes. water fire erection, communications, traffic which are required by NFPA 502, and methods are manual fire alarm, boses. ensure that all interested parties are continually apprised of the fire inci- ventilation, tunnel drainage, control of supply portable fire singuishes. (CCTV). These to systems provicle i closec-circuit television systems of refuge or assembly within the tun- dent and any required actions. Areas hazarclous materials and cargoes, and means to cover the entire length of the nel should be provided with reliable emergency response. ification of any reported alarms. Some road tunnel while providing visual ver- Avo-iyay voice communications to the emergency response authority. These tunnels have provided methods of hear systenıs vill help to verify the magni- within it road tunnel only increases the Any celay in the discovery of a fire the tunnel ceiling) to provide further detection (e.g.. linear heat detectors at sucle of the incident while providing detailed information on trapped occu- magnitticle and difficulty of a given verification of a fire and to assist vith pants or motorists ho have sought incilent. Therefore, the detection. veri- the location of the fire and any protection in areas of refuge. required actions. Acklitionally, radio conmunication sys- tens, such as highway adivisory radio 20 Fire Protection Engineering NUMBER 5 <<>> Page 3or 4 (HAR) and AM FM commercial station motorists with infornation about the overrides, can be utilized to provide egress from the tunnel. • Water spray from sprinklers quick- allow for case of use by inotorists shout not esceed 9 kg (20 lls) 10 emergency and required actions. makes road surface extremely slippery. ly exceeds capabilities of wipers and i means of detecting the removal of a within the tunnel. The incorporation of TRAFFIC CONTROL tunnels can induce panic due to per- • Water sprays from subaqueous method of alarm that can be utilized fire extinguisher provides an acclitional NFPA 502 requires that any tunnel ceived tunnel failure. which exceeds 90 m (300 ft) in length While there are concerns over the to alert tunnel opertions of a possible must be provided with a means of effectiveness of sprinkler protection of fire, while discouraging fire extinguish- entering the tunnel following the acti- stopping approaching traffic from road tunnels, sereral tunnels have er theft.' -en-equipper-with-fire sprinklers..- vition of the fire alarm within the tun- Many tunnel applications utilize AFFF VENTILATION. DURING FIRE.... (800 ft) are required to provide : nel. Road tunnels longer than 240 m (aqueous film-forming form) in lieu of EMERGENCY water-only sprinkler systems to reduce means to stop traffic from entering the the total required system demand and required to be clesigned to maximize Tunnel rentilation systems are control traffic within the tunnel and to direct approaches to the tunnel, to the total need for drainage and con- tainment of fire suppression discharge, the removal and control of smoke and folloting the activation of the fire clour traffic downstream of the fire site To ensure against accidental discharge, within the tunnel in order to assist in heated ginsess that result from fires manually operated deluge sprinkler alarm system within the tunnel.' By *systems should be unfized and zoned * motorists. Smoke control can be the exacuation and rescue of can minimize the number of vehicles controlling traffic. the tunnel operators aren of the fire incident. to limit the are of discharge to the the tunnel (extraction) or by pushing achieved by removing the smoke from fire incident. and motorists that are exposed to the STANDPIPES trol and out of a tunnel portal. In all the smoke through the tunnel (con- designed and installed as Class I stand- Standpipes for unnels should be cases. the ventilation systems should rescue of motorists and to facilitate work to maximize the evacuation and sprinklers in road tunnels are not The use and effectiveness of Stancard for the Installation of pipes in accorclance with NFPA 14. any fire-fighting operations. The sons. Currently there is substantial universally accepted for many rea- Standpipe and Hose Systems. Two design objectives of the emergency remotely located fire department con- stream of noncontaminated air in the ventilation system are to maintain a are not only ineffective in control- evidence indicating that sprinklers pendent standpipe system. The lexi- nections are required for erich incle- to ensure that longitudinal airflow path of egress away from the fire and tribute to the spread and severity of ling the fire but can actually con- tions of the fire department conner- lacal Authority Having Jurisdiction lions shouk he coordinated with the ering of the smoke in the path of rites are produced to prevent backlay- the incicient.: spaced so that no locition on the pro- (AHI). Hose connections shoult be egress away from the fire.' The Nihonzaka tunnel fire illustrat- flow, motorists can be on both sides of in tunnels with bidirectional traffic ed this point. The steam is often more sprinklers often had a difficult time in damaging than the smoke and the tected roadway is more than 45 m (150 ft) from the lose connection.' a fire incident located within the tun- cation should not be discurize while nei. In these tunnels, the smoke stratifi- extinguishing hazardous material fires: WATER SUPPLY keeping longitucinal air velocities at nel engineers, designers and opérating Some of the major concerns of tun- should be connecied to in approved All standpipes and sprinkler systems lou magnitacles. Smoke estraction through ceiling openings or high wall authorities are! • Typical fires are obstructed and i - water supply capable of supplying the iLssist in smoke control. In tunnels with openings shoul be considered to sprinklers. very dillicult to control with overhead lour.' system demanci for a minimum of !, unidirectional traffic flow, motorists are fire incident within the tunnel. Methods likely to be lounted upsingum of any steam can spread heat and smoke • Large quantities of superheated PORTABLE FIRE EXTINGUISHERS longitudinal systems and transverse or of ventilation for these tunnels include throughour the length of the tunnel. the fire due to the vigorous ventilation, • Fest collection is not localized to quished or controlled by motorists uti Many reported tunnel fires are extin reversible semitransverse systems.' vided within the road tunnel. Portable lizing portable fire extinguishers pro- tional tunnels are required to prevent Longituclinal systems for unicired- narron cross-section and slope of the tunnel. fire extinguishers should be located backlayering by producing a longitudi- disrupt the stratification of smoke • Sprinkler activation vill severely within wall cabinets at intervals not critical velocity in the direction of traf- nal velocity that is greater than the within the tunnel clirectly affecting exceeding 90 m (300 ft). The musi- mum weight of the extinguishers fic flow. Transverse or reversible semitrans- WINTER 2000 Fire Protection Engineering 21 <<>> + PAge Yof t exhaust rate in the ventilation zone tunnels are required to maximize the verse systens for unidirectional traffic be considered: 1. Availability of a suitable alternative CONCLUSIONS mizothe amount of tir that is intro- where the fire is located and to mini- route(s) to direct hazardous cirgoes around the tunnel. safer in road tunnels is olten a very Ensuring fre protection and life duced by a transverse system. 2. Fire and accident esperience with solems are required to create a longi- Trinsterse or reversible semitransterse which rules and regulations are facilities similar to the facility for the Mont Bline and Tauren roadi tun- complex and demiled cisk. In light of tulinal airflon in the direction of traf- 3. Previous fire and accident esperi- being adopted. have moved to the forefront of tumnel nel lires, fire protection and life safery fic flour by operating the upstream and the downstream ventilation zones ventilation zones in maximum supply adjacent roads or in the use of- ence of the facility in question and with the fire department from the ear- design and engineering. Coordination in maximum exhaust. new fucility, previous fire and acci- • liest design stages can work to ensure cent experience on roads in the that all of the required systems are in •CENHAGE SISTEMS ared. place to respond to a fire incident in a 4. Anticipated traffic volumes in peik road tunnel. The use of international to collect, store or discharge effluent Drainage systems should be installed 5. Need for inspection of vehicles and and off-peak periods. standards for road tunnels, such as in runnel design and engineering can NFPA 502, and the inclusion of esperts from the tunnel including cleaning cargo and the availability of it safe water, seepage, water discharged from place to conduct inspections with a result in a functional road tunnel that from accidental spills. The drainage fire protection systems and liquids 6. Need and desimbility of escort ser- minimum of tmflic interference. ensures the life safety of the motorists ane the fire integrity of the tunnel. system must be designed so that spills vice with due consideration of the not propagate along the length of the of hazardous or flammable liquids can- extent to which it could disrupt the fire Protection Association. Christian Dubay is with the National additional hazards. orderly flow of traffic and create Tunnel and should be designed to be REFERE ICES capable of handling the minimum 7. Existing plans developed by an hesses without causing flooding of the simultancous discharge from to fire ared and the suitability of such a operating agency in a dense urban 1. NFPA 502, Standard for Road plan for a given facility should also Access Highways, 1998 Edition. Tunnels, Bridges and Other Limited roadway! be considered. 2. Prevention and Control of Highsay Highway Administration, Tunnel Fires, USDOT, Feceral EMERGENCY RESFONSE USDOT Wel Sile, and hazardous cargoes provides an The control of hazardous materials department should be conducted from Coordination with the local fire preventl.htm. http://www.fhwa.clot.gov/bridge/ effective mens of reducing the the eurliest stages of road tunnel 3. Bickel. John O., Kuesel. Thonses R.. chance of a signifitant fire scenario. design and analysis. This coordination anel King. Elsyn H. (1996) Tunnel The magnicle and effect of incidents ho clue trining on road ne Edition, Chapman & Hall. Engincering Handlook, Seroned cargoes within the tunnel. These a he increased crastically by the yout, ventiation, egress routes an to tunnel incidents. Such systems as an emergency notification and response 4. HVAC Appliestions (1992), ASHRAE Holland and Caldecou tunnel fires. effects were clearly illustrated in the Handbook - SI Edition, American integrated graphic display of the sprin- Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc. Sociely of Heating. Refrigerating and and regulations that apply to the The operating agency adopts rules kler system zones. fire detection sys- limits and emergency access and tem zones, tunnel ventilation system 5. Memorial Tunnel Fire Ventilation and a program maintained to enforce transportation of hazardous materials Test Progrum Test Report for the trol room can assist tunnel openitors egress locations provided at the con- 1995. Bechrel/Parsons Brinkerhoff Missichusetts Highway Department. such regulations. When developing arous materials, the following should regulations for the control of haz- to make tactical decisions.' and responding emergency personnel Quacle & Douglas, Inc. 2 Fire Protection Engineering NuMBER 5 ## Provenance - Official: Yes - Source: - Source ID: `phmsa` - SHA-256: `2ae79b3dd87a8aa8396c7bc65dc548ab5bcd52f6c9ed148d7b6fa1ab3a758900` - Retrieved: 2026-08-20T00:59:31.977Z - Exported: 2026-08-22T14:24:46.322Z - Document slug: `phmsa-interpretation-01-0058` ### Source metadata ```json { "materialSubtype": "interpretation", "interpretationArea": "hazardous_materials", "representation": "full_text_from_official_pdf", "companies": [ "Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel" ], "individuals": [ "Mr. Otis T. Eanes" ], "refIds": [ "01-0058" ], "catalogDates": [ "2001-04-05" ], "catalogParts": [ 172 ], "catalogRowCount": 1, "sourceRecordUrls": [ "https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/node/46046" ], "linkedAttachmentUrls": [], "unavailableResponseUrls": [], "duplicateRepresentationUrls": [], "citedSections": [ "172.701", "172.707", "173.50", "173.115", "173.120", "173.124", "173.127", "173.128", "173.132", "173.134", "173.403", "173.136", "173.140", "173.144", "172.101" ], "catalogPageUrls": [ "https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/regulations/title49/section/172701" ], "pdfUrls": [ "https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/sites/phmsa.dot.gov/files/legacy/interpretations/Interpretation%20Files/2001/010058.pdf" ], "representations": [ { "viewUrl": "https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/sites/phmsa.dot.gov/files/legacy/interpretations/Interpretation%20Files/2001/010058.pdf", "detailUrl": null, "detailHtmlPath": null, "pdfUrl": "https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/sites/phmsa.dot.gov/files/legacy/interpretations/Interpretation%20Files/2001/010058.pdf", "pdfArtifactPath": "data/sources/phmsa-interpretations/01-0058-e719f5af3a.pdf", "pdfArtifactSha256": "445feeeace567264f5e72d85302df790a8af59103ec8bdefbd494001e9259c7d", "extractedTextPath": "data/sources/phmsa-interpretations/01-0058-e719f5af3a.v2.txt", "extractedTextSha256": "0e588c5aed6bea218bce6b3e631e22a32e4f00c032e5c2a7d2833c22161bdfc2", "pageCount": 33, "extractionVersion": 2 } ], "caveat": "Interpretations apply regulations to the facts presented and do not create independently enforceable requirements.", "jurisdiction": "US" } ```