# HazMat Resoureces, Inc. — Hazardous Materials Safety Interpretation

- **operation:** document
- **citation:** 09-0123
- **title:** HazMat Resoureces, Inc. — Hazardous Materials Safety Interpretation
- **source type:** guidance
- **agency:** Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration
- **status:** guidance
- **official:** true
- **published on:** 2009-06-23
- **effective on:** Not available
- **summary:** 09-0123 response to HazMat Resoureces, Inc. concerning 173.315, 177.834.
- **machine formats:** - **json:** https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-interpretation-09-0123.json
- **markdown:** https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-interpretation-09-0123.md
- **app url:** https://regulus.evalyn.ai/document/phmsa-interpretation-09-0123
- **source url:** https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/sites/phmsa.dot.gov/files/legacy/interpretations/Interpretations/2009/090123.pdf
**body:**

<<<PAGE 1>>>

U.S. Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials
Safety Administration
JUN 2 3 2009
1200 New Jersey Ave, S.E.
Washington, D.C. 20590
Mr. Daniel G. Shelton
Vice President
HazmMat Resources, Inc.
1 0 1 04 Creedmoor Road
Raleigh, NC 276 1 5
Ref. No.: 09-0 123
Dear Mr. Shelton:
This is in response to your May 1, 2009 letter requesting clarification of the Hazardous
Materials Regulations (HMR; 49 CFR Parts 17 1 - 180) applicable to the transportation of
liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in storage tanks for permanent installation on consumer
premises. You have provided several attachments to illustrate how these storage tanks are
typically loaded and secured on the motor vehicle. Your questions are paraphrased and
answered as follows:
Q 1 : Section 8 173.3 156) authorizes the transportation of LPG storage tanks for permanent
installation on consumer premises under specific conditions. In accordance with
8 173.3 156), the tanks must be braced or otherwise secured on the vehicle to prevent relative
motion while in transit. This paragraph also references 5 177.834(a), which requires any
package containing any hazardous material that is not permanently attached to a motor
vehicle to be secured against shifting, including relative motion between packages, within the
vehicle on which it is being transported, under conditions normally incident to transportation.
What is meant by the phrases "on the vehicle" and "within the vehicle" in the context of
tj 173.3156)?
Al: The phrase "on the vehicle" means that the tank is placed on the body of the vehicle, but
does not address whether the tank extends beyond the envelope (outer edges) of the vehicle.
The reference to "within the vehicle" is a general requirement for all hazardous materials
loaded for highway transportation and means that each hazardous material package must be
loaded inside the outer envelope of the vehicle body. The phrase "within the vehicle" was
not intended to apply to storage tanks transported in accordance with $ 173.3 15(j).
42: Would it be a violation of 8 177.834(a) if an LPG storage container for permanent
installation on consumer premises transported by a private motor carrier were loaded and
transported as depicted in the photos provided with the tank extending roughly 32 inches
beyond the rear of the vehicle, provided all other conditions of 5 173.3 156) were satisfied?

<<<PAGE 2>>>

A2: No. Section 177.834(a) is a general highway loading requirement for all hazardous
materials. Storage tanks loaded for transportation in accordance with 5 173.3150) ,must be
loaded on the transport vehicle in accordance with 5 173.3150) and may extend beyond the
envelope or frame of the vehicle provided they are otherwise properly secured and protected
from damage in accordance with $5 173.3150) and 177.848(a).
Q3: Is it necessary to place orange or red flags on the end of the tank if it extends beyond
the back of the vehicle by less than 4 feet?
A3: The HMR do not contain requirements for extended or oversized loads (e.g., orange
and red flags to indicate the rear most portion of cargo transported by highway).
44: Special permit 13341 requires an LPG storage tank to be loaded and secured on a motor
vehicle such that the tank is completely within the envelope of the vehicle and does not
extend beyond the vehicle frame. Does PHMSA intend to require all storage tanks for
permanent installation at consumer premises by private motor vehicle to be transported in
accordance with special permit 13341, or may they be transported under the HMR in
accordance with 8 173.3 150)?
A4: It is not necessary to transport an LPG storage tank in accordance with a special permit
(e.g., SP 13341) unless it is not possible to comply with the conditions of 8 173.315(j).
I hope this information is helpful. Please contact us if you require additional assistance.
Charles E. Betts
Standards Development
of Hazardous Materials Standards

<<<PAGE 3>>>

10104 Creedmoor Road
Raleigh, N.C. 27615
May 1, 2009
Mr. Edward Mazzullo
Office Director, Office of Hazardous Materials Standards
U.S. Department of Transportation
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration
East Building, 2nd Floor
Mail Stop: E21-317
1200 New Jersey Ave., SE
Washington, DC 20590
Mr. Mazzullo,
Please accept this letter as our request for an interpretation of 49 CFR 173.315(j) titled
requirements for the transportation of storage containers for liquefied petroleum gas for
permanent installation on consumer premises by a private motor carrier. It is my
understanding that storage tanks containing less than or equal to 5% LPG may be
transported by private carrier only if all the provisions identified in 173.315(j) are met.
Those requirements are as follows:
(j)(1) Each container must be constructed in compliance with the requirements in Section
VIII of the ASME Code (containers built in compliance with earlier editions starting with
1943 are authorized) and must be marked to indicate compliance in the manner specified
by the respective Code.
(j)(2) Each container must be equipped with safety devices in compliance with the
requirements for safety devices on containers as specified in NFPA 58 (IBR, see §171.7
of this subchapter).
(j)(3) The containers must be braced or otherwise secured on the vehicle to prevent
relative motion while in transit. Valves or other fittings must be adequately protected
against damage during transportation. (See §177.834(a) of this subchapter.)
(j)(4) Except as provided in paragraph (j)(5) of this section, containers shall not be
shipped when charged with liquefied petroleum gas to more than 5 percent of their water
capacity.
Fax (877) 841-6023 Phone (423)863-2252

<<<PAGE 4>>>

(j)(5) Storage containers of less than 1,042 pounds water capacity (125 gallons) may be
shipped when charged with liquefied petroleum gas in compliance with DOT filling
density.
It appears there is a conflict regarding whether or not storage containers for liquefied
petroleum gas must be transported wholly within the boundary of the transport vehicle or
my extend beyond the boundary of the transport vehicle. 173.315(j)(3) states in part that
the container must be on the vehicle but it goes on to reference 177.834(a) which states the
following:
Packages secured in a motor vehicle. Any package containing any
hazardous material, not permanently attached to a motor vehicle,
must be secured against shifting, including relative motion between
packages, within the vehicle on which it is being transported, under
conditions normally incident to transportation. Packages having
valves or other fittings must be loaded in a manner to minimize the
likelihood of damage during transportation.
The phrase within the vehicle on which it is being transported is problematic and is
inconsistent with the phrase in 173.315(j)(3) which states it must be on the vehicle. It is
my understanding of the words that ‘being on the vehicle” does not mean the same as
“within the vehicle.”
For years the LPG industry has transported literally thousands of storage containers for
liquefied petroleum gas for permanent installation on consumer premises to be transported
by private motor carriers with equipment and configurations illustrated in Attachment 1
and in accordance with 173.315(j) without any HM Incidents. Numerous manufacturers1
design and build service trucks and trailers specifically designed to service and transport
these storage containers to and from consumer premises. We also believe that it was not
the Departments intent to require these storage tanks be within the vehicle if all the
requirements of 173.315(j) are complied with. If you look at Special Permit 13341, this SP
authorizes the one-way transportation in commerce of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in
certain non-DOT specification storage tanks by private carrier motor vehicle that are not in
compliance with 173.315(j) (4) because they are charged to greater than 5% of their
capacity. In this particular instance the Department did intend for these storage containers
to be within the envelope of the vehicle. Section 7 (b)(8) of SP 13341 states:
Each tank transported under this special permit must be loaded and secured on a motor
vehicle such that the tank is completely within the envelope of the vehicle and does not
extend beyond the vehicle frame.
1 See Attachment 2 – Brochure from H & H Sales and Attachment 3 – Brochure from Stellar Industries

<<<PAGE 5>>>

I have provided for your inspection and review the following information:
1. 2. 3. 4. Attachment 1 – photos of various configurations of service trucks and trailers
transporting storage containers for liquefied petroleum gas for permanent
installation on consumer premises by private motor carriers.
Attachment 2 – Brochure from H & H Sales @ www.hhsalescompany.com
Attachment 3 – Brochure from Stellar Industries @ www.stellar-industries.com
Attachment 4 – Interpretation 06-0223 (photos show similar configuration)
Please respond to the following questions.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Is in the intent of the Department to continue to permit storage containers for
liquefied petroleum gas for permanent installation on consumer premises to be
transported by private motor carriers in compliance with 173.315(j) and not under
special permit 13341 in accordance with those configurations illustrated in Photo 1,
2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 of attachment 1?
Is it acceptable to transport storage containers for liquefied petroleum gas for
permanent installation on consumer premises by a private motor carrier a storage
container that overhangs the rear of the service truck less than 4 feet with no red or
orange warning flags identifying the rear most extremities of the projecting storage
container.
What does the Department mean by the phrase “on the vehicle” and the phrase
within the vehicle in the context of 173.315(j)(3)?
Would it be a violation of 177.834(a) if a storage container for liquefied petroleum
gas for permanent installation on consumer premises by a private motor carrier was
transported in accordance with Photo 4 or 5 (extending 32 inches beyond the rear of
the vehicle) if all the provisions of 173.315(j) were complied with?
How can you comply with 173.315(j)(3) which states the storage container must be
on the vehicle and then in the same section refer to 177.834(a) which would
indicate the storage container must be within the vehicle?
Thank you in advance for your timely reply.
Sincerely
Daniel G. Shelton
Vice President
HazMat Resources, Inc.
Attachments: 1 – Photos
2 – Sales Brochure from H & H Sales, Inc.
3 – Sales Brochure from Stellar Industries
4 – Interpretation 06 – 0223

<<<PAGE 6>>>

Storage containers for LPG
Photo 1
This photo was taken at the
Midwest Propane Convention in
Indianapolis, IN 2006. Note
how the tank overhangs the rear
of the transport vehicle but does
comply with the intent of
173.315(j)(3) because it is
securely attached on the vehicle,
it is just not within the boundary
of the vehicle
Photo 2
This is a different view of the
same configuration.
Photo 3
This picture depicts a straight
truck with a lifting arm and a
trailer that also used to transport
storage containers for liquefied
petroleum gas for permanent
installation on consumer
premises. In this configuration
you could actually transport two
storage tanks, one on the trailer
and one on the service truck.

<<<PAGE 7>>>

Storage containers for LPG
Photo 4
This is a typical configuration of
a service truck with a crane that
is used to transport storage tanks
with less than or equal to 5%
LGP.
Photo 5
This is a different view of the
same configuration.
Photo 6
This picture depicts a trailer that
would be used to transport a
storage container. Note the
distance the tank extends from
the rear of the transport vehicle.

<<<PAGE 8>>>

KM SERIES,
EM & EMGC SERIES
CRANE EQUIPPED
TRUCK BODIES
©2004 H&H Sales Company, Inc.
Give your operation a lift with an
H&H crane-equipped truck body
Model 96-132KM with hydraulic
outriggers and 6406H crane.
For LP-Gas handling or field ser-
vice/heavy equipment installa-
tions H&H crane-equipped truck
bodies make loading, hauling,
and unloading manageable, one-
man job. That means you can
make service, installation, and
delivery calls in a lot less time at
a lot better profit.
Our crane-equipped body styles
are available in several models to
fit any one-ton truck chassis.
Each truck body is ruggedly con-
structed and loaded with conve-
nient, functional features to keep
your company ahead of compe-
tition. We can also outfit bodies
on larger chassis.
Model 96-132KM with 5005HPE crane from street side.
Crane Selection
The heavy-duty, all-hydraulic Auto
Crane 5005HPE shown above is
one of the units offered on H&H
crane-equipped truck bodies. It fea-
tures an extendable 20 ft. boom,
370° power rotation, and lifting ca-
pacities of 5,000 lb. at 5 ft. and 1,250
lb. at 20 ft. Cranes up to 38,000 ft.
lb. available. Other brands of
cranes are also available.

<<<PAGE 9>>>

Service and Installation
Model 96-144EM with aluminum tool boxes (above) and
galvannealed steel tool boxes (left).
The 96-132KM Series Crane
Body is designed with storage
space on the curb side, thus
allowing the street side open
to accommodate loading of
tanks or heavy equipment.
The rear curb side cabinet is
reinforced and can handle up
to a 38,000 ft. lb. crane. This
rear curb side crane mount
provides excellent versatility
and efficiency when loading or
unloading heavy or bulky
equipment. (Crane and storage
compartments can be mounted
on street side if desired).
H&H rugged construction
features 3/16 tread plate on
bed and 1/8 on compartment
tops and backs. Body is 14
gauge galvannealed steel. The
67 cubic ft. of storage space
offers optional shelves and
drawer assemblies. We offer
three different size cranes to
meet your equipment handling
requirements.
H&H provides EM Series ser-
vice/installation bodies in 120 ,
144 , 168 and 180 lengths.
These functional bodies have
no raised wheel wells, so you
can use the entire bed. Steel
“D” rings are standard on all
bodies for securing loads.
Front mounted service boxes
are available for keeping tools
and small parts organized.
The boxes are keyed alike,
reinforced on the outside edges
and base, and measure 42
high x 36 wide x 14 deep.
Model 96-144EM with 1500 lb. capacity lift gate.

<<<PAGE 10>>>

Crane Bodies
Additional boxes can be
mounted behind front box.
Other features can include DOT
mounting kit, mud flaps, trailer
electrical connector, rear
bumper and receiver tube with
slide-out adapter and 2-5/16”
ball, moisture-proof ICC ap-
proved lighting, underbody rust
protection, and acrylic enamel
paint finish. LED lights also
available.
All-purpose 10’ or 12’ EMGC
Series truck bodies team the
crane of your choice with a 24”
x 44” In-Bed™ hydraulic lift
platform capable of lifting 1250
lb. That means outstanding
versatility.
Standard EMGC Series features
include DOT mounting kit, rear
wheel mud flaps, undercoated
frame and flooring for rust pro-
tection, DOT required decals.
In-Bed™ lift platform makes
loading and unloading cylin-
ders and other equipment easy.
Hydraulic control provides a
smooth lift. Outside safety lock
keeps gate securely in place.
Model 96-169KM with front mounted, street-side tool boxes and hydraulic
outriggers (above).
Model 96-132KM with custom 12-inch floor extension (below).
OVERALL FLOOR APPROX. CHASSIS CRANE REQUIRED REAR
MODEL WIDTH LENGTH WEIGHT REQ. CA MOUNT CRANE BASE HITCH
96-120-EM 96" 120" 1825 lb. 60" REAR 18"H Std.
96-144-EM 96" 144" 2190 lb. 84" REAR 18"H Std.
96-168-EM 96" 168" 2560 lb. 108" REAR 18"H Std.
96-180-EM 96" 180" 2740 lb. 120" REAR 18"H Std.
10-EMGC 96" 120" 2000 lb. 60" FRONT 18"H Opt.
12-EMGC 96" 144" 2500 lb. 84" FRONT 18"H Opt.
96-108KM 96" 108" 2388 lb 60" REAR CABINET MOUNT Std.
96-132KM 96" 132" 2811 lb 84" REAR CABINET MOUNT Std.
96-169KM 96" 169" 3622 lb 108" REAR CABINET MOUNT Std.
All bodies have 3/16" steel treadplate floor standard. (3/16 x 1" type 19W4 open bar grate floor is optional)
All bodies have 3" x 4.1# structural channel floor cross members (KM utilizes some tubing structure.)
All bodies meet FMVSS 108 and ICC standards for vehicle lighting.
All bodies have tie-down loops either bolted or welded to floor (bar grate floor has recessed tie-down loops.)
Max. crane: 6000 lb. Capacity or 38,000 ft. lb./Minimum chassis GVWR for 6000 lb. Crane: 17,500 lb.
See separate specification pages for tool box dimensions.

<<<PAGE 11>>>

Options
Equipto® pull
out drawer unit.
Outrigger shown
in down position.
Underbed concrete block holder. Chock block holder.
Double utility cabinet with optional
over-the-wheel cabinet.
Full bumper arrangement. Bumper shown with optional vise.
Removable vise mounting bracket is
also available.
Drop down/removable side railing,
shown up.
Optional drop down/removable side
railing.
Tie down loop (standard).
H&H Sales Company reserves the right to change
specifications and component parts without notice.
EMGC models
feature a standard
In-BedTM lift gate.
MEMBER
PROPANE GAS National Association
Form No. 34-5588 © 2004 H&H Sales Company, Inc.
Printed in USA

<<<PAGE 12>>>

STELLAR® LP GAS SERVICE TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION GUIDE
LP GAS
Service Trucks
®
Our People. Our Products.

<<<PAGE 13>>>

STELLAR® LP GAS SERVICE TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION GUIDE
Service Cranes
Model
Crane Rating
Boom Length*
Max Reach*
Lifting Capacities
Power Supply
EC3200
11,500 ft-lbs (1.59 ton-m)
7’ (2.13 m)
15’ (4.57 m)
3,200 lbs @ 3’ (1451 Kg @ .9 m)
640 lbs @ 15’ (260 Kg @ 4.6 m)
12 volt power
2.0 gpm @ 2600 psi
4420
16,000 ft-lbs (2.23 ton-m)
10’ (3.05 m)
20’ (6.10 m)
4,000 lbs @ 4’ (1814 kg @ 1.22 m)
800 lbs @ 20’ (365 kg @ 6.10 m)
PTO 2.0 gpm @ 2600 psi
12 volt power E/H (Optional)
5520
25,000 ft-lbs (3.46 ton-m)
10’ (3.05 m)
20’ (6.10 m)
5,000 lbs @ 5’ (2268 kg @ 1.52 m)
1250 lbs @ 20’ (565 kg @ 6.10 m)
PTO 4.5 gpm @ 2850 psi
12 volt power E/H (Optional)
6620
38,000 ft-lbs (5.25 ton-m)
10’ 9" (3.28 m)
20’ 9" (6.32 m)
6,000 lbs @ 6’ (2722 kg @ 1.83 m)
1825 lbs @ 20’9" (830 kg @ 6.32 m)
PTO 8 gpm @ 2850 psi
6628
38,000 ft-lbs (5.25 ton-m)
13’ (3.96 m)
28’ (8.53 m)
6,000 lbs @ 6’ (2722 kg @ 1.83 m)
1350 lbs @ 28’ (1130 kg @ 8.54 m)
PTO 8 gpm @ 2850 psi
Defining Characteristics
Remote Control
Stellar Industries was the first U.S. manufacturer to include the state-of-the-art fully proportional multi-functional remote control as
a standard feature. The radio remote incorporates a variable speed trigger that allows the operators to feather the crane with
precise control. Additionally, the radio remote control handle features engine start/stop functions, compressor on/off, engine speed
controls, and an emergency shut-off.
Planetary Drive Winch System
To maximize winch speed, Stellar Industries has incorporated a planetary drive winch system with line speeds up to 60-ft/min
(18.29 m), giving the Stellar crane over twice the speed of the competition. In addition to speed, the planetary winch also
provides mechanical and hydraulic breaks for added security.
Hexagonal Boom Design
Hexagonal booms are stronger and greatly reduce boom flex and side to side movement.
Greaseless Bushings
Maintenance free greaseless bushings.
Stainless Steel Pivot Pins
Lower maintenance and extend life.
Up to 28’ of Hydraulic Reach (on 6628)
2-stage hydraulic extensions. No manual extensions (on 6620 and 6628).
Dual Acting Counter Balance Valves
Integrated into cylinders.
Flip Sheave Standard
Anti Two-Block Device
NOTE: All Stellar cranes meet ANSI B30.5 and OSHA 1910.180 specifications.
Specifications subject to change without notification.

<<<PAGE 14>>>

LP Service Crane Capacity Chart*
LP Service Body Information
stellarindustries.com
*This data is for reference purposes only, and
is not intended to replace a properly calculated
weight distribution.
Class1 LP Service Body
Crane Models: EC3200
4420
5520
6620
6628
Cab to Axle: 108” (274.32 cm)
Body Length: 14’ (426.72 cm)
Truck Body Features
• Torsion box understructure
• Street side or curb side steel tool compartments
• Multiple number of compartment options
• Street-side or curb-side 2-piece removable or fixed fence
• Optional non-skid Scorpion tough coat spray floor covering
• Slide in aluminum tailboard
• Heavy duty rear step bumper w/ 2" receiver tube
• Multiple outrigger options available
• Two-part polyurethane enamel
• Automotive style electrical wiring harnesses
Class2 LP Service Body
Crane Models: 5520
6620
6628
Cab to Axle: 84” (213.36 cm)
Body Length: 12’ (365.76 cm)
Truck Body Features
• Torsion box understructure
• Street-side or curb-side steel tool compartments
• Multiple number of shelving options
• Optional street side or curb side removable fence with
optional E-Track
• Optional non-skid Scorpion tough coat spray floor covering
• Heavy-duty rear step bumper w/ 2" receiver tube
• Multiple outrigger options available
• Two-part polyurethane enamel
• Automotive style electrical wiring harnesses
®

<<<PAGE 15>>>

LP Gas Service Truck Package
The Class 1 & 2 LP Gas Service Trucks from Stellar Industries, Inc. are extremely versatile service trucks. They
make transporting, loading and unloading gas cylinders a simple, single-person operation without the need of a
trailer or additional setting equipment.
The LP Gas Service Bodies are designed to haul a single 1000-gallon or two 500-gallon propane tanks, plus
everything necessary to install and service the tanks. These service trucks are also designed to safely and
securely carry small LP tanks with the use of E-track and a fold down side rack (optional on all models).
Operating a Stellar LP Gas Service Truck is an ideal addition to any propane business because it is easy to use
and only requires one operator.
All cranes are operated with a fully proportional radio remote control that is a standard feature.
Stellar Industries, Inc. works hard to give you a service truck that offers versatility, dependability and efficiency.
Stellar is committed to giving you the competitive edge.
Your local dealer:
®
Our People. Our Products.
190 State Street
P.O. Box 169
Garner, IA 50438
Telephone: (641) 923-3741 • (800) 321-3741
Fax: (641) 923-2812
Internet: www.stellarindustries.com
Email: sales@stellarindustries.com
An Employee Owned Company.
Copyright © 2008 Stellar Industries, Inc.
10/08

<<<PAGE 16>>>

of Transportation
U.S. Department
NOV 15 2006
Washington, D.C. 20590
400 Seventh Street, S.W.
Pipeline and
Administration
Hazardous Materials Safety
Mr. Michael Ritchie
Ref. No.: 06-0223
Minnesota Department of Transportation
Office of Freight & Commercial
Vehicle Operations
395 John Ireland Blvd., MS 460
St. Paul, MN 55155
Dear Mr. Ritchie:
requirements for bulk packagings under the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR; 49
This is in response to your September 22, 2006 letter regarding labeling and placarding
of a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) storage container that is constructed to the American
CFR Parts 171-180). Specifically, you ask a series of questions regarding transportation
Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Code and is for permanent installation on
consumer premises. You state that the tanks generally have a capacity of 500 or 1,000
include pictures of these bulk propane storage containers loaded on tank setting trailers
gallons and satisfy the conditions of § 173.315(j) for LPG storage containers. You
and flat bed trucks. Your questions are summarized and answered as follows:
Q1: Does an LPG bulk storage container meet the definition of "portable tank" as defined
in § 171.8 or "other bulk packaging" as referenced in §§ 172.331 and 172.514?
Al: An LPG bulk storage container that meets the conditions of § 173.315(j) and is built
in compliance with section VIII of the ASME Code is not considered a portable tank as
defined in § 171.8. A bulk storage container meeting the conditions set forth in
§ 173.315(j) is considered a non-specification bulk packaging, or "other bulk packaging"
for hazard communication requirements of Part 172.
Q2: Is an LPG bulk storage container subject to labeling requirements for a bu k
packagings specified in § 172.400(a)(2). See Al.
A2: The LPG bulk storage container is subject to the labeling requirements for bulk
Q3: Is an LPG bulk storage container required to be labeled if the tank setting trailer is
placarded in accordance with Subpart F of Part 172?
172.400
060223
172.514

<<<PAGE 17>>>

volumetric capacity of less than 18m' (640 cubic feet) is required to be labeled in
A3: Yes. A bulk packaging, other than a cargo tank, portable tank, or tank car, with a
accordance with § 172.400(a)(2) unless the packaging itself is placarded in accordance
with Subpart F of Part 172.
Q4: Is an LPG bulk storage container eligible for the placarding exception in
§ 172.514(c)(1) applicable to portable tanks; or, is it eligible for the exception in
§ 172.514(c)(3) for a bulk packaging, other than a portable tank, cargo tank, or tank car?
A4: The LPG bulk storage container is eligible for the exception in § 172.514(c)(3) for a
bulk packaging, other than a portable tank, cargo tank, or tank car. See A1.
storage container than a 1,000 gallon LPG bulk storage container?
Q5: Are the labeling and placarding requirements different for a 500 gallon LPG bulk
18m° (640 cubic feet).
A5: No. Provided the volumetric capacity of each LPG bulk storage container is below
Q6: Is the LPG bulk storage container required to be placarded if it is loaded on a tank
setting trailer or flat bed truck that is placarded?
A6: The LPG bulk storage container must be placarded, unless it is labeled on two
trailer or flat bed truck do not preclude the requirement to label or placard the bulk
opposing sides in accordance with § 172.400(a)(2). Placards displayed on a tank setting
packaging.
Q7: Is it permissible to display placards and identification numbers when transporting an
empty LPG bulk storage container?
packaging or transport vehicle unless the bulk packaging or transport vehicle contains a
A7: The HMR prohibit the display of labels, placards or identification numbers on a bulk
material that meets the definition of a hazardous material under the HMR. However, a
packaging or transport vehicle that contains a residue of a hazardous material must
display the appropriate labels, placards, and identification numbers unless otherwise
excepted under § 173.29.
I hope this information is helpful. If you have further questions, please do not hesitate to
contact this office.
Sincerely,
Chief, Standards Development
Office of Hazardous Materials Standards

<<<PAGE 18>>>

Minnesota Department of Transportation
Office of Freight and Commercial Vehicle Operations
395 John Ireland Blvd.
St. Paul, MN 55155-1899
Eichenlaub
5172. 400
8172-514
September 22, 2006
Labeling@ Placarding
Pipeline and Hazardous Materials
US Department of Transportation
01-0223
Safety Administration PHH-10
Mr. John Gale
400 Seventh Street S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20590
transportation.
RE: Labeling and Placarding requirements for Propane Storage Containers during
Dear Mr. Gale:
labeling and placarding of propane storage tanks and the tank setting trailers used for
We have received questions from industry and enforcement personnel concerning
gulations have been interpreted differently in different States, and has requested writte
ansportation and installation of the tanks. A propane industry representative says the
clarification.
These tanks are those referenced in 49 CFR 173.315 (i). Photographs of the tanks and the
tank setting trailers are included with this letter. Most tanks used in this area are either
500 gallons or 1000 gallons capacity.
A clarification letter from RSPA to Kamps Propane, dated August 26, 1994, indicates
other than portable tanks and cargo tanks. In a letter to Level Propane on December 22
hese tanks should be marked in accordance with 49 CFR 172.331 for bulk packagings
1999, Ref. No. 99-0262, RSPA references an exception provided in 49 CFR 172.514 (›
allowing labeling instead of placarding on certain bulk packagings.
Labeling
• Are these storage tanks for installation on a consumers premises "portable tanks"
as defined in 49 CFR 171.8 or "other bulk packaging" as referenced in 49 CFR §S
172.331 and 172.514 and other sections?
• While in transportation, are they subject to the labeling requirements of 49 CFR
subparagraph (3) for portable tanks?
172.400 (a) (2) for bulk packaging other than portable tanks or cargo tanks or
• Is labeling required on these tanks during transportation, if the trailer is
placarded?
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Placarding
• Are these tanks covered by the placarding exception in 49 CFR 172.514 (c) (1)
for portable tanks or by subparagraph (3) for "other bulk packaging?
• Are the requirements different for a 500-gallon tank and a 1000-gallon tank?
• When transporting these tanks on a tank setting trailer or on a flat bed truck, are
placards required on the storage tank if the truck or trailer is displaying the correct
placards and ID numbers?
• Must placards and ID numbers be removed when transporting an empty tank
setting trailer?
telephone or e-mail address listed below.
Thank you for your assistance. If you have any questions, you can contact me at the
Yours truly,
Michael Ritchie
Hazardous Materials Specialist
Minnesota Department of Transportation
Office of Freight & Commercial
Vehicle Operations
395 John Ireland Blvd., MS 460
(651) 215-6326
St. Paul, MN 55155
Michael.Ritchie@dot.state.mn.us
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