{"operation":"document","citation":"71 FR 55757","title":"Hazardous Materials; Miscellaneous Amendments","source_type":"rulemaking","agency":"Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration","status":"proposed","official":true,"published_on":"2006-09-25","effective_on":null,"summary":"PHMSA proposes to make miscellaneous amendments to the Hazardous Materials Regulations based on petitions for rulemaking and PHMSA initiatives. These proposed amendments are intended to update, clarify or provide relief from certain regulatory requirements. Among other provisions, PHMSA is proposing a new proper shipping name and UN identification number for fuel mixtures composed of ethanol and gasoline to help emergency response personnel respond appropriately to incidents involving such fuel mixtures. In addition, PHMSA proposes to update certain incorporations by reference, revise and clarify certain hazard communication requirements, and clarify transportation requirements applicable to dry ice, detonator assemblies and explosives. PHMSA also proposes to provide expanded exceptions from regulation for household hazardous wastes and small amounts of materials used in pharmaceutical research.","machine_formats":{"json":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/federal-register-06-7913.json","markdown":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/federal-register-06-7913.md"},"app_url":"https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/federal-register-06-7913","source_url":"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2006/09/25/06-7913/hazardous-materials-miscellaneous-amendments","body":"Federal Register, Volume 71 Issue 185 (Monday, September 25, 2006) [Federal Register Volume 71, Number 185 (Monday, September 25, 2006)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 55757-55773] From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] [FR Doc No: 06-7913] ======================================================================= ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration 49 CFR Parts 171, 172, 173, 175, 177, 178, and 180 [Docket No. PHMSA-05-21812 (HM-218D)] RIN 2137-AE10 Hazardous Materials; Miscellaneous Amendments AGENCY: Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), DOT. [[Page 55758]] ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: PHMSA proposes to make miscellaneous amendments to the Hazardous Materials Regulations based on petitions for rulemaking and PHMSA initiatives. These proposed amendments are intended to update, clarify or provide relief from certain regulatory requirements. Among other provisions, PHMSA is proposing a new proper shipping name and UN identification number for fuel mixtures composed of ethanol and gasoline to help emergency response personnel respond appropriately to incidents involving such fuel mixtures. In addition, PHMSA proposes to update certain incorporations by reference, revise and clarify certain hazard communication requirements, and clarify transportation requirements applicable to dry ice, detonator assemblies and explosives. PHMSA also proposes to provide expanded exceptions from regulation for household hazardous wastes and small amounts of materials used in pharmaceutical research. DATES: Comments must be received by November 24, 2006. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by DOT DMS Docket Number PHMSA-05-21812 by any of the following methods: Web site: http://dms.dot.gov . Follow the instructions for submitting comments on the DOT electronic docket site. Fax: 202-493-2251. Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, PL-401, Washington, DC 20590-0001. Hand Delivery: Room PL-401 on the plaza level of the Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov . Follow the online instructions for submitting comments. Instructions: All submissions must include the agency name and docket number or Regulatory Identification Number (RIN) for this rulemaking. For detailed instructions on submitting comments and additional information on the rulemaking process, see the Public Participation heading of the Supplementary Information section of this document. Note that all comments received will be posted, without change, to http://dms.dot.gov including any personal information provided. Please see the Privacy Act heading under Regulatory Analyses and Notices. Docket: For access to the docket to read background documents and comments received, go to http://dms.dot.gov at any time or to Room PL- 401 on the plaza level of the Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Cameron Satterthwaite, Office of Hazardous Materials Standards, (202) 366-8553, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC 20590-0001. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Background This NPRM is designed to reduce regulatory burdens on industry by incorporating changes into the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR; 49 CFR Parts 171-180) based on PHMSA's own initiatives and petitions for rulemaking submitted in accordance with 49 CFR 106.95. To this end, we are proposing to eliminate, revise, clarify and relax certain regulatory requirements. In this NPRM, we are proposing to: (1) Update incorporations by reference of industry consensus standards issued by the Chlorine Institute and the Compressed Gas Association (see Sec. Sec. 171.7, 173.301, 178.337-9, and 178.337-10). (2) Add a definition for ``household wastes'' to clarify the current exception in the HMR for transportation of such materials (see Sec. Sec. 171.8, 173.12 and 173.134). (3) Revise the Hazardous Materials Table (HMT) to harmonize certain entries with international standards (see Sec. 172.101) by removing, adding, and revising certain proper shipping names. Most significantly, we are adding a new hazardous material entry to the HMR for ethanol and gasoline mixtures (E85) to ensure emergency responders utilize the most effective emergency response procedures for incidents involving fuel mixtures of ethanol and gasoline (see item no. 9 below). (4) Revise certain hazard communication requirements to address marine pollutant, limited quantity, and proper shipping name markings on packages and labels on overpacks and intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) (see Sec. Sec. 172.203, 172.315, and 172.406). (5) Clarify that shippers of materials for which safety permits are required in accordance with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations must utilize only carriers with current safety permits (see Sec. 173.22). (6) Clarify requirements applicable to the transportation of dry ice on aircraft, detonator assemblies, and packagings authorized for the transportation of certain explosives (see Sec. Sec. 173.24, 173.61, 173.62, 173.217, 175.30, and 175.900). (7) Add an exception from HMR for small amounts of hazardous materials (see Sec. 173.4). (8) Clarify segregation requirements for hazardous materials transported by motor carrier (see Sec. 177.848). (9) The 2004 Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG2004) refers to Guide 127 (Flammable Liquids Polar/Water-Miscible) for response to incidents involving Alcohols, n.o.s., 3, UN1987, and Denatured alcohol, 3, NA1987. Guide 127 specifies the use of alcohol resistant foam. For incidents involving Flammable liquid, n.o.s., (ethanol, gasoline), 3, UN1993, and Gasohol, 3, NA1203, ERG 2004 refers to Guide 128 (Flammable Liquids Non-Polar/Water-Immiscible). Guide 128 specifies the use of regular foam, but contains the following warning: CAUTION: ``For mixtures containing a high percentage of an alcohol or polar solvent, alcohol-resistant foam may be more effective.'' To help emergency responders utilize the most effective emergency response procedures for incidents involving fuel mixtures composed of ethanol (or ``ethyl alcohol'') and gasoline in various concentrations we are proposing to add a new entry ``Ethanol and gasoline mixture or Ethanol and motor spirit or Ethanol and petrol mixture, with more than 10% ethanol, 3, UN3475, II'' to the HMT. This proposed new HMT entry is consistent with a proposed amendment to be incorporated into the 15th Revised Edition of the UN Model Regulations. We are also proposing to revise the entry for ``Gasohol gasoline mixed with ethyl alcohol, with not more than 20 percent alcohol, 3, NA1203, II'' to limit this entry gasoline mixtures with no more than 10 percent alcohol. We are also proposing a 2-year transition period for these proposals. (See discussion under Sec. 171.14). Alternative fuels such as bio-diesel, ethanol and methanol, have been produced and used on a small scale for decades, driven by environmental, economic, and energy security concerns. The most common of these fuels is designated E85. E85 is composed of 85 percent ethyl alcohol (ethanol) and 15 percent petroleum (gasoline) and is being used in increasing volumes in the United States. Fires involving E85 and other ethanol/gasoline mixtures containing more than 10% ethanol should be treated differently than traditional gasoline fires because these [[Page 55759]] mixtures are polar/water-miscible flammable liquids (i.e., they mix with water) and will degrade the effectiveness of fire-fighting foam that is not alcohol-resistant. We understand that if we adopt this new shipping description, fuel suppliers and cargo tank operators may incur additional costs associate with revisions to the hazard communication requirements. Therefore, we are interested in identifying measures to minimize costs while effectively communicating the hazards to the emergency response community. Because numerical data for these proposals are difficult to obtain, we invite commenters to address the merits of the proposal to add the new entry ``Ethanol and gasoline mixture or Ethanol and motor spirit or Ethanol and petrol mixture, with more than 10% ethanol,'' 3, UN3475, II to the HMT and of the proposal to limit the entry for ``Gasohol gasoline mixed with ethyl alcohol, with not more than 20 percent alcohol, 3, NA1203, II to gasoline mixtures with no more than 10 percent alcohol. To provide outreach to emergency responders, PHMSA issued a Safety Alert to provide emergency responders with guidance on appropriate procedures for responding to incidents involving fuel mixtures composed of ethanol. In addition, PHMSA is providing Hazardous Material Emergency Preparedness Grants to emergency responders for planning and training which includes training for responses to incidents involving gasoline and ethanol mixtures. PHMSA is also partnering with the Renewable Fuel Association and the International Association of Fire Chiefs to revise existing safety training materials for emergency response personnel to include guidance for responding to incidents involving gasoline and ethanol fuel mixtures. These proposals are discussed in more detail in the section-by- section review. II. Section-by-Section Review The following is a section-by-section summary of the proposed changes. Part 171 Section 171.4 Section 171.4 prohibits the transportation of materials meeting the definition of a marine pollutant except in accordance with HMR requirements. Currently, paragraph (c) excepts marine pollutants transported in non-bulk packagings from HMR requirements, unless the transportation is by vessel. We are proposing to revise paragraph (c) to clarify shipments for which all or part of the transportation is by vessel must conform to applicable HMR requirements, even if the initial transportation is by rail or highway. A more complete explanation of this issue can be found in the preamble discussion for Sec. 172.203. Section 171.7 We have reviewed the updated Chlorine Institute's pamphlets pertaining to cargo tanks and bulk transfer facilities. We have also reviewed the updated Compressed Gas Association's pamphlets pertaining to compressed gas cylinders. As a result, we have found no provisions that would impose additional requirements or would have an adverse impact on safety. Therefore, we are proposing to update, revise, and add the following incorporation by reference (IBR) materials in paragraph (a)(3), within the Table of material incorporated by reference,: In response to a Chlorine Institute petition (P-1444), under the entry ``Chlorine Institute,'' we propose to update ``Type 1\\1/2\\ JQ 225, Dwg., H51970, Revision D April 5, 1989; or Type 1\\1/2\\ JQ 225, Dwg. H50155, Revision F, April 4, 1989'' to Revisions F and H respectively. In response to a Chlorine Institute petition (P-1444), under the entry ``Chlorine Institute,'' we propose to update ``Section 3, Pamphlet 57, Emergency Shut-Off Systems for Bulk Transfer of Chlorine, 3rd Edition, October 1997'' to the 4th Edition, October 2003. In response to a Chlorine Institute petition (P-1444), under the entry ``Chlorine Institute,'' we propose to add ``Section 3, Pamphlet 166 Angle Valve Guidelines for Chlorine Bulk Transportation, 1st Edition, October 2002.'' In response to a Chlorine Institute petition (P-1444) and a Midland Manufacturing Corporation petition (P-1448), under the entry ``Chlorine Institute,'' we propose to add ``Typical Manway Arrangement Chlorine Cargo Tank, Dwg. 137-5, November 1996.'' In response to a Chlorine Institute petition (P-1444), under the entry ``Chlorine Institute,'' we propose to remove the section reference for ``Standards for Housing and Manway Covers for Steel Cargo Tanks, Dwgs. 137-1 and 137-2, September 1, 1982.'' We propose to update ``CGA Pamphlet C-5 Cylinder Service Life--Seamless Steel High Pressure Cylinders, 1991'' to the reaffirmed 1995 Edition. In response to a Compressed Gas Association (CGA) petition (P-1472), we propose to update ``CGA Pamphlet C-7, A Guide for the Preparation of Precautionary Markings of Compressed Gas Containers, appendix A, issued 1992 (6th Edition)'' to the 2004 (Eighth) Edition. The updated pamphlet allows for hazard class numbers to be placed on subsidiary labels which is prohibited in the 1992 edition. In response to a Compressed Gas Association (CGA) petition (P-1440), we propose to permit the use of ``CGA Pamphlet S-1.1, Pressure Relief Device Standards-Part 1-Cylinders for Compressed Gases, 2005 (with the exception of paragraph 9.1.1.1), Twelfth Edition'' for DOT specification cylinders and UN pressure receptacles. Currently, the Ninth edition (1996) is authorized for DOT specification cylinders and the Eleventh edition (2003) is authorized for UN pressure receptacles. In response to a CGA petition (P-1440), we propose to update ``CGA Pamphlet S-7, Method for Selecting Pressure Relief Devices for Compressed Gas Mixtures in Cylinders, 1996'' to the 2005 Edition. We propose to update ``ISO 7225, Gas cylinders-- Precautionary labels, First Edition, November 1994, (Corrected and reprinted August 1995), (E)'' to the Second edition, July 2005. We are also proposing to revise paragraph (b) of this section, which is the list of informational materials not requiring incorporation by reference, to add an additional reference to guidance material for those who perform hydrostatic testing and visual inspections on cylinders. This document is entitled ``CGA Pamphlet C- 1.1-Personnel Training and Certification Guidelines for Cylinder Requalification By the Volumetric Expansion, issued 2004 (1st Edition).'' Section 171.8 The HMR, in Sec. 173.134(b)(13)(i), include an exception from regulatory requirements for household wastes. However, the HMR currently do not define ``household wastes.'' In this NPRM, we are proposing to add a new definition for ``Household wastes'' to mean ``any solid waste (including garbage, trash, and sanitary waste from septic tanks) derived from households (including single and multiple residences, hotels and motels, bunkhouses, ranger stations, crew quarters, campgrounds, picnic grounds, and day-use recreation areas).'' We are also proposing to clarify that household wastes are not subject to the HMR. See the preamble discussion for Sec. 173.12 for [[Page 55760]] a more complete explanation of this clarification. Section 171.14 This section lists specific transition periods for certain provisions adopted into the HMR. In this NPRM, to provide shippers, carriers and emergency responders sufficient time to plan for and implement the proposed new shipping description pertaining to E85 with minimal costs (see Sec. 171.101), we propose to add a new paragraph (g) to provide a 2-year transition period for the mandatory use of the revised proper shipping description ``Gasohol gasoline mixed with ethyl alcohol, with not more than 10% alcohol.'' Part 172 Section 172.101 Hazardous Materials Table (HMT) The 2004 Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG2004) refers to Guide 127 (Flammable Liquids Polar/Water-Miscible) for response to incidents involving Alcohols, n.o.s., 3, UN1987, and Denatured alcohol, 3, NA1987. Guide 127 specifies the use of alcohol resistant foam. For incidents involving Flammable liquid, n.o.s., (ethanol, gasoline), 3, UN1993, and Gasohol, 3, NA1203, ERG 2004 refers to Guide 128 (Flammable Liquids Non-Polar/Water-Immiscible). Guide 128 specifies the use of regular foam, but contains the following warning: CAUTION: ``For mixtures containing a high percentage of an alcohol or polar solvent, alcohol-resistant foam may be more effective.'' To help emergency responders utilize the most effective emergency response procedures for incidents involving fuel mixtures composed of ethanol (or ``ethyl alcohol'') and gasoline in various concentrations we are proposing to add a new entry ``Ethanol and gasoline mixture or Ethanol and motor spirit or Ethanol and petrol mixture, with more than 10% ethanol, 3, UN3475, II'' to the HMT. This proposed new HMT entry is consistent with a proposed amendment to be incorporated into the 15th Revised Edition of the UN Model Regulations. We are also proposing to revise the entry for ``Gasohol gasoline mixed with ethyl alcohol, with not more than 20 percent alcohol, 3, NA1203, II'' to limit this entry gasoline mixtures with no more than 10 percent alcohol. We are also proposing a 2-year transition period for these proposals. (See discussion under Sec. 171.14) Alternative fuels such as bio-diesel, ethanol and methanol, have been produced and used on a small scale for decades, driven by environmental, economic, and energy security concerns. The most common of these fuels is designated E85. E85 is composed of 85 percent ethyl alcohol (ethanol) and 15 percent petroleum (gasoline) and is being used in increasing volumes in the United States. Fires involving E85 and other ethanol/gasoline mixtures containing more than 10% ethanol should be treated differently than traditional gasoline fires because these mixtures are polar/water-miscible flammable liquids (i.e., they mix with water) and will degrade the effectiveness of fire-fighting foam that is not alcohol-resistant. We understand that if we adopt this new shipping description, fuel suppliers and cargo tank operators may incur additional costs associate with revisions to the hazard communication requirements. Therefore, we are interested in identifying measures to minimize costs while effectively communicating the hazards to the emergency response community. Because numerical data for these proposals are difficult to obtain, we invite commenters to address the merits of the proposal to add the new entry ``Ethanol and gasoline mixture or Ethanol and motor spirit or Ethanol and petrol mixture, with more than 10% ethanol,'' 3, UN3475, II to the HMT and of the proposal to limit the entry for ``Gasohol gasoline mixed with ethyl alcohol, with not more than 20 percent alcohol, 3, NA1203, II to gasoline mixtures with no more than 10 percent alcohol. Commenters may wish to consider the following questions: --What cost impacts are associated with our proposal to add a new entry to the HMT for fuel mixtures containing ethanol? --What cost impacts are associated with our proposed revision to the HMT entry for gasohol? --Are two separate entries for ``Ethanol and gasoline mixture or Ethanol and motor spirit or Ethanol and petrol mixture, with more than 10% ethanol'' and ``Gasohol gasoline mixed with ethyl alcohol, with not more than 10 percent alcohol'' necessary or should all alcohol/gasoline mixtures be transported using a single proper shipping name? --Does the proposed 2-year transition period provide sufficient time for shippers and carriers to incorporate the proposed new shipping name and UN number into shipping papers and package markings with minimal disruptions to normal business operations? Given the emergency response concerns about incidents involving ethanol/gasoline mixtures, should the proposed 2-year transition period be shortened to ensure that the new shipping name and UN number are utilized as quickly as possible? How should we balance these two potentially competing goals? We are also proposing to harmonize certain entries in the HMR with the most recent editions of the UN Recommendations for the Transport of Dangerous Goods (UN Recommendations), the International Civil Aviation Organization Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air (ICAO Technical Instructions), and the International Maritime Organization Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code), and correct other entries, as follows: The entry ``Radioactive material, Type A package non- special form, non fissile or fissile-excepted, UN2915'' is revised to add a reference ``419'' to column (8B) and ``418'' to column (8C). This proposed revision will correct these packaging references inadvertently omitted in a final rule published on September 23, 2005, under Docket No. PHMSA 05-22071 (HM-189Y; 70 FR 56084). The entry ``Sodium aluminate, solid, UN2812,'' is revised to include an ``A'' in column 1 of the HMT to indicate this material is only regulated when offered or intended for transportation by aircraft. We propose to revise this entry to align with the UN Recommendations, which only apply to solid forms of sodium aluminate when transported by air. Under the ICAO Technical Instructions, sodium aluminate is regulated for air transportation because of its corrosive effects on aluminum, which is the primary construction material for aircraft. We are proposing to add several new entries to the HMT to assist shippers in determining the most appropriate hazardous materials description to use when shipping polyamines. The proposed new entries include: --Polyamines, flammable, corrosive, n.o.s. see Amines, flammable, corrosive, n.o.s. --Polyamines, liquid, corrosive, flammable, n.o.s. see Amines, liquid, corrosive, flammable, n.o.s. --Polyamines, liquid, corrosive, n.o.s. see Amines, liquid, corrosive, n.o.s. We are proposing to remove the entry ``Gas generator assemblies (aircraft), containing a non-flammable non-toxic gas and a propellant cartridge.'' This description was removed from the ICAO Technical Instructions in the 2003-2004 edition. In addition, we are proposing to remove the packaging section for gas generator [[Page 55761]] assemblies specified in Sec. 173.335 in its entirety. Section 172.102 When column 7 of the Sec. 172.102 table refers to a special provision for a hazardous material, the meaning and requirements of that special provision are set forth in this section. In this NPRM, we are proposing to add a new Special Provision 177 and revise Special Provision B69. The proposed special provision addition and revision are as follows: Consistent with the proposed new proper shipping description ``Ethanol and gasoline mixture or Ethanol and motor spirit or Ethanol and petrol mixture, with more than 10% ethanol, 3, UN3475, II,'' we are proposing to add a new Special Provision 177 to specify proper applicability of this description. Currently, Special Provision B69 specifies that ``Dry sodium cyanide or potassium cyanide'' may be shipped in a sift-proof weather-resistant metal covered hopper car, covered motor vehicle, portable tank or non-specification bin. Bins must be approved by the Associate Administrator. We are proposing to amend Special Provision B69 to clarify that metal covered hopper cars, covered motor vehicles, portable tanks, and non-specification bins must be sift-proof and weather-resistant. The current wording of this special provision has caused some confusion as to whether the requirement for the packaging to be sift-proof and weather-resistant applies only to metal-covered hopper cars or to all packagings authorized for the transportation of dry sodium cyanide and potassium cyanide. In addition, we are proposing to amend Special Provision B69 to remove the requirement for bins to be approved by the Associate Administrator. So long as the bins meet applicable requirements, approval is not necessary. Section 172.203 Section 172.203(l) addresses shipping paper requirements for shipments of marine pollutants. Paragraph (l)(4) excepts marine pollutants in non-bulk packagings from the requirements of the HMR unless the transportation is by vessel. The International Vessel Operators Hazardous Materials Association, Inc. (VOHMA) petitioned PHMSA (P-1465) to amend paragraph (l)(4) to clarify that the exception for non-bulk packages of marine pollutants transported by motor vehicle, rail car or aircraft does not apply to a marine pollutant ``intended for transport'' aboard a vessel. VOHMA states the current language suggests the consignor who prepares the shipment and offers it in intermodal transportation has no obligation to declare the marine pollutant on the shipping paper if the initial transport is by motor vehicle or rail. Because the current language in the HMR suggests there is no obligation by the consignor, when preparing a non-bulk shipment for intermodal transportation, to indicate on a shipping paper the words ``Marine Pollutant'' in association with the basic description for a material which is a marine pollutant, a shipment intended for transportation by vessel and initially offered into transportation by highway, rail or air may be improperly described on the vessel shipping documents by a freight forwarder. This was not our intention when this provision was originally adopted. Therefore, we are proposing to revise paragraph (l)(4) to clarify that marine pollutants in non-bulk packagings transported all or in part by vessel must be indicated on a shipping paper by the words ``Marine Pollutant'' in association with the basic description. Section 172.315 Except for transportation by aircraft, this section excepts limited quantity shipments of hazardous materials from the requirement for marking the proper shipping name of the material on the package when the identification number of the material is shown within a square-on- point configuration. Section 172.324 requires materials that are hazardous substances, as defined in Sec. 171.8, to be marked with the name of the hazardous substance and the letters ``RQ'' in association with the proper shipping name. We are proposing to clarify if a shipper identifies a limited quantity material which is also a hazardous substance, the shipper is required to mark the letters ``RQ'' on the package in association with the square-on-point configuration containing the identification number of the material. We also invite comments on whether or not the name of the hazardous substance should also be included along with letters ``RQ,'' even though the proper shipping name is not required. Section 172.336 Paragraphs (c)(4) and (c)(5) except from the identification number marking requirements each of the different liquid petroleum distillate fuels, including gasoline and gasohol, transported in a compartmented cargo tank, tank car or cargo tank, if the identification number is displayed for the liquid petroleum distillate fuel having the lowest flash point. As a result of the proposed new HMT entry ``Ethanol and gasoline mixture or Ethanol and motor spirit or Ethanol and petrol mixture, with more than 10% ethanol,'' 3, UN3475, II, individuals could attempt to apply this exception to the proposed new entry, which is not our intent (see discussion under Sec. 172.101). Therefore, to eliminate any confusion, we are proposing to revise paragraphs (c)(4) and (c)(5) to specify the provisions of the paragraphs (c)(4) and (c)(5) do not apply to ``Ethanol and gasoline mixture or Ethanol and motor spirit or Ethanol and petrol mixture, with more than 10% ethanol.'' We are also proposing a 2-year transition period for this proposal. We understand that if we adopt this new shipping description, fuel suppliers and cargo tank operators may incur additional costs associated with revisions to the hazard communication requirements. Therefore, we are interested in identifying measures to minimize costs while effectively communicating the hazards to the emergency response community. As a result of this proposal, we invite commenters to specifically address the following questions: --Does the proposed 2-year transition period provide sufficient time for shippers and carriers to incorporate the proposed new shipping name and UN number into shipping papers and package markings with minimal disruptions to normal business operations? Given the emergency response concerns about incidents involving ethanol/gasoline mixtures, should the proposed 2-year transition period be shortened to ensure that the new shipping name and UN number are utilized as quickly as possible? How should we balance these two potentially competing goals? --Are there measures that can be employed to ease potential costs to shippers and carriers with respect to cargo tanks that are permanently marked? --What are the cost impacts of our proposal to limit the applicability of the current exceptions in Sec. 172.336 (c)(4) and (c)(5)? Section 172.406 Paragraph (e) of this section prescribes requirements for the duplicate labeling of packages based on size. Paragraph (e)(1) requires each package or overpack having a volume of 1.8m 3 (64 cubic feet) or more to be labeled on at least two sides or two ends (other than the bottom of the package). There has been some confusion as to whether this requirement also applies to IBCs. Therefore, we are proposing to add a new paragraph (e)(6) to clarify IBCs having a volume of 1.8m 3 (64 cubic [[Page 55762]] feet) or more are required to be labeled on at least two sides or two ends. Part 173 Section 173.4 This section establishes exceptions for small quantities of hazardous materials. The Dangerous Goods Advisory Council (DGAC) (P- 1454) and Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA) (P-1457) petitioned PHMSA to provide an exception from the HMR for de minimis quantities, less than 1 gram for solids and less than 1 milliliter for liquids, of PG II and PG III materials of Class 3, Division 4.1, Division 4.2, Division 4.3, Division 5.1, Division 6.1, Class 8, and Class 9. The petitioners estimate an annual cost savings of approximately $1 million if their petitions are implemented. After reviewing the petitions and evaluating the risks associated with the de minimis quantities, we agree with the petitioners that because these materials are present in minute quantities, usually a gram or less, and are packaged in such a manner, and have determined that safety would not be undermined by allowing these minute quantities and would not pose an unreasonable risk during transportation. Therefore, we are proposing to add a new paragraph (e) to provide conditions for authorizing de minimis quantities of these materials to be excepted from the HMR. Section 173.5 This section establishes the conditions under which agricultural products such as pesticides and fertilizers are excepted from HMR requirements. Paragraph (b)(2) specifies limits for the amount of agricultural product that may be transported in a single vehicle in order to utilize the exception applicable to transportation to or from a farm, within 150 miles of the farm. The HMR do not define the term ``single vehicle;'' thus, it is not clear whether the exception applies to agricultural products transported in a single ``motor vehicle'' or ``transport vehicle.'' To clarify this exception, we are proposing to revise paragraph (b)(2) to replace the term ``vehicle'' with ``motor vehicle.'' The term ``motor vehicle'' is defined in Sec. 171.8 to mean a vehicle, machine, tractor, trailer, or semi-trailer, or any combination thereof, propelled or drawn by mechanical power and used on the highways to transport people or property. Section 173.12 In a final rule published on January 24, 2005, under Docket No. RSPA 03-16370 (HM-233; 70 FR 3304), we added a new paragraph (e) to this section to authorize the storage, loading and transportation of waste cyanide and waste cyanide mixtures or solutions with Class 8 acids under certain conditions. Acids are not only found in Class 8, but also in Class 3 and in Divisions 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 5.1 and 5.2. We believe acids in the aforementioned Classes and Divisions may be safely transported and stored with waste cyanide and waste cyanide mixtures or solution under the conditions specified in Sec. Sec. 174.81(c), 176.83(b), and 177.848(c). Therefore, in this NPRM, we are proposing to revise paragraph (e) to authorize the transportation of waste cyanides and waste cyanide mixtures or solutions with all acids. In this section, we are also proposing to add a new paragraph (f) to specify that materials meeting the proposed definition of ``household wastes'' in Sec. 171.8 would not be subject to the requirements of the HMR. Currently, Sec. 173.134(b)(13) excepts any waste or recyclable material, other than regulated medical waste, from regulation under the HMR. However, the location of this exception in the section of Part 173 that establishes definitions for Division 6.2 materials (infectious substances) suggests the current exception excepts household wastes only from requirements applicable to Division 6.2 materials. This was not our intention. In letters of interpretation, including an October 8, 2004 letter to Mr. David Allard of Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (Ref. No. 04- 0197), we specify household wastes as being excepted from the HMR. The addition of a broad exception for ``household wastes'' in the proposed paragraph (f) will clarify our intent. Section 173.22 This section establishes a shipper's responsibility for complying with applicable requirements of the HMR. National Tank Truck Carriers (NTTC) petitioned PHMSA (P-1469) to amend this section to specify that shippers who offer certain hazardous materials for transportation must use carriers holding a valid safety permit issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). FMCSA regulations (49 CFR Part 385, Subpart E) require motor carriers transporting certain types and amounts of hazardous materials to apply for a safety permit. To obtain a safety permit, a carrier must have a ``satisfactory'' safety rating and must meet certain other safety and security requirements. The safety permit requirements apply to motor carriers transporting: (1) A highway route-controlled quantity of a Class 7 (radioactive) material; (2) certain high explosives; (3) certain TIH materials; and (4) certain bulk shipments of liquefied methane gas and liquefied natural gas. A carrier may not transport any of the listed materials unless it has a valid safety permit. In response to the NTTC petition, we are proposing in this NPRM to prohibit a person from offering any of the materials for which a safety permit is required to a motor carrier not possessing a valid safety permit. Section 173.24 This section establishes general requirements for packagings and packages. Paragraph (g) of this section addresses venting from packages during transportation and currently specifies that a package containing a hazardous material and transported on board an aircraft must not vent. This provision conflicts with current Sec. 173.217, which requires carbon dioxide, solid (dry ice) to be packed in packagings designed and constructed to permit the release of carbon dioxide gas to prevent a buildup of pressure that could rupture the packaging when offered for transportation or transported by aircraft or water. To eliminate these contradictory requirements, in this NPRM we are proposing to revise paragraph (g)(1) to specify that the venting of packagings containing carbon dioxide, solid (dry ice) would not be prohibited for air transportation. We also invite comments on other materials to which this provision would also apply. Section 173.61 This section establishes general requirements for transporting Class 1 materials (explosives) in the same outside packaging. Paragraph (c) of this section lists specific explosives that may not be transported in the same outside packaging as other Class 1 materials. In a final rule published May 6, 1997 (HM 215B; 62 FR 24708) we added a new entry to the Hazardous Materials Table ``Detonator, assemblies, non-electric for blasting,'' UN0500. This entry should have also been added to paragraph (c) to indicate that this material is not authorized to be packed together with other Class 1 explosives. Therefore, we are proposing to correct this oversight by amending paragraph (c) to include UN 0500 ``Detonator assemblies, non-electric for blasting.'' Section 173.62 This section establishes specific packaging requirements for Class 1 materials. The Table of Packing Methods in paragraph (c) specifies the packing instructions assigned to each [[Page 55763]] explosive. To harmonize the HMR with international standards and to remove a source of potential confusion within the regulated community, we are proposing to revise packing instruction (PI) 134 in the Table of Packing Methods, in paragraph (c), to authorize the use of a specification 4H1 plastic box as an outer packaging for certain explosives. Section 173.134 This section establishes definitions and exceptions for infectious substances. Paragraph (b)(13)(i) contains an exception from the requirements of the HMR relative to Division 6.2 materials for waste derived from households. We are proposing to revise this paragraph to incorporated the proposed new household waste definition in Sec. 171.8. See preamble discussions in specified above in Sec. Sec. 171.8 and 173.12 for background information. Section 173.217 This section establishes packaging requirements for carbon dioxide, solid (dry ice). We are proposing to revise this section for clarity and to harmonize the HMR with requirements in the ICAO Technical Instructions applicable to the transportation of dry ice by air. Currently under paragraph (d), the HMR require the shipper to have a specific and special written arrangement with the air carrier to transport more than 441 pounds of dry ice in a single compartment. The ICAO Technical Instructions no longer include this requirement. The United Parcel Service (UPS) petitioned PHMSA (P-1439) to amend this section for consistency with the most recent edition of the ICAO Technical Instructions. We agree and are proposing to revise the current paragraph (d) accordingly. In addition, we are proposing to revise paragraph (d) to address air specific provisions such as ventilation safety procedures, net mass marking requirements, and quantity limit exceptions for dry ice used as a refrigerant for non- hazardous materials. In addition, we are proposing requirements for air carriers who transport dry ice in the proposed new Sec. 175.900. See Sec. 175.900 preamble discussion. Currently, paragraph (e) in Sec. 173.217 provides an exception from the shipping paper and certification requirements for dry ice shipments prepared in accordance with paragraphs (a) and (d) provided the package is marked ``Carbon dioxide, solid'' or ``Dry ice'' and with an indication that the material being refrigerated is used for diagnostic or treatment purposes. To eliminate any confusion, we are proposing to revise paragraph (e) to specify only dry ice actually used to refrigerate materials being shipped for diagnostic or treatment purposes may be transported under this exception. For clarity and ease of use by the reader, we are proposing to consolidate the modal requirements applicable to dry ice by relocating the vessel provisions to paragraph (b) and the aircraft provisions to paragraph (c). As a result of this proposal, the dry ice provisions relative to diagnostic specimens currently in paragraph (e) would be moved to paragraph (d). Section 173.301 This section establishes general requirements for the transportation of compressed gases in cylinders and spherical pressure vessels. Paragraph (f) of this section addresses pressure relief devices (PRDs); paragraph (g) addresses manifolding cylinders in transportation. CGA petitioned PHMSA (P-1440) to update the incorporation by reference of CGA Pamphlets S-1.1 and S-7, which are both referenced in paragraphs (f)(1) and (g)(1). The pamphlets contain requirements for PRDs on cylinders. We reviewed the differences between currently referenced pamphlets and the updated pamphlets. We a","truncated":true,"body_characters":91320}