RSPA Issues Final Rule in Docket HM-223 - Loading, Unloading, and Storage

摘要

In the October 30, 2003 Federal Register (68 FR 61905), the Research and Special Programs Administration published its long-awaited final rule in Docket HM-223, clarifying the applicability of the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) to various functions involved in hazardous materials transportation. RSPA had issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in June 2001, proposing a number of changes to the HMR to clarify when those rules apply. In the rule, RSPA hoped to address confusion about when the HMR apply, specifically to loading and unloading operations, and pre-transportation functions. Further, RSPA hoped to clear up jurisdictional issues that have arisen over which governmental agency (i.e. RSPA, OSHA, or EPA) is responsible for regulation at various stages of product's manufacture and delivery.