[Federal Register Volume 62, Number 5 (Wednesday, January 8, 1997)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 1217-1237]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 97-189]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Research and Special Programs Administration

49 CFR Parts 171, 172, 173, 174, 175, 176 and 177

[Docket No. HM-206; Amdt. Nos. 171-151, 172-151, 173-260, 174-84, 175-
85, 176-42, 177-89]
RIN 2137-AB75


Improvements to Hazardous Materials Identification Systems

AGENCY: Research and Special Programs Administration (RSPA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This final rule amends the Hazardous Materials Regulations 
(HMR) to better identify hazardous materials in transportation. Changes 
include adding a new ``POISON INHALATION HAZARD'' (PIH) label and 
placard to enhance the ready identification of materials which are 
poisonous if inhaled, lowering the quantity for specific hazard class 
placarding from 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds) to 1,000 kilograms 
(2,205 pounds) of one class or division of material loaded on a 
transport vehicle, expanding requirements for transport vehicles and 
freight containers that have been fumigated, and other enhancements to 
the hazard communication system. Improved identification of, and 
information about, hazardous materials in transportation assists 
emergency response personnel in responding to and mitigating the 
effects of incidents involving the transportation of hazardous 
materials, and improves safety to transportation workers and the 
public.

DATES: Effective date: October 1, 1997.
    Compliance date: Voluntary compliance is authorized beginning 
February 11, 1997.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Helen L. Engrum, telephone (202) 366-
8553, Office of Hazardous Materials Standards, Research and Special 
Programs Administration, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh 
Street, SW., Washington, DC 20590-0001.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Background

A. The Current Hazard Communication System

    The Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR; 49 CFR Parts 171-180) 
include a wide variety of hazard identification and communication 
requirements for hazardous material shipments. These requirements are 
designed, in part, to provide fire and emergency response personnel, 
the public, and transport workers with information in the event of a 
transportation incident involving hazardous materials. Hazard 
communication and emergency response information requirements are set 
forth in Subparts C through G of Part 172 of the HMR.
    During transportation, most non-bulk packages of a hazardous 
material must be marked with the shipping name and identification 
number of the material and must have a hazard warning label affixed to 
the package. Many shipments of hazardous materials must be identified 
by placards attached to the transport vehicle or bulk package. Most 
hazardous materials must be described and identified on a shipping 
paper that accompanies a shipment in transportation. A shipping paper 
must contain an emergency response telephone number that is monitored 
at all times the hazardous material is in transportation. This 
telephone number is used by emergency responders to

[[Page 1218]]

obtain more detailed, product specific information on the hazardous 
material being transported. A carrier is required to have on each 
vehicle transporting a hazardous material appropriate emergency 
response information intended to provide guidance for the initial 
actions to be taken in the event of an incident.
    The hazard communication system in the HMR generally is consistent 
with international standards. In a number of rulemaking actions from 
1976 to the present, DOT has revised hazard communication requirements 
in the HMR, by adoption of shipping descriptions, labels, and placards, 
for consistency with standards in the United Nations Recommendations on 
the Transport of Dangerous Goods (U.N. Recommendations).
    The changes to hazard communication requirements made by this final 
rule are intended to enhance the identification of hazardous materials 
in transportation and improve the availability of emergency response 
information. These changes should result in better response by, and 
protection for, emergency response personnel, (e.g., local fire or 
police department personnel), and help ensure that hazardous materials 
are transported with minimum risks to persons, property, and the 
environment.

B. Rulemaking History

    On June 9, 1992, RSPA published an advance notice of proposed 
rulemaking (ANPRM) in the Federal Register [57 FR 24532]. The ANPRM was 
issued in response to Section 25 of the Hazardous Materials 
Transportation Uniform Safety Act of 1990 (Pub. Law 101-615). The 
section required the Secretary of Transportation to initiate a 
rulemaking to determine methods of improving the existing system of 
placarding vehicles transporting hazardous materials and to determine 
methods for establishing and operating a central reporting system and 
computerized telecommunications data center that could provide 
information to facilitate responses to incidents involving hazardous 
material. DOT was required to contract with the National Academy of 
Sciences (NAS) to study the need for establishing the central reporting 
system and telecommunications center. The NAS and DOT reports are 
included in this docket.
    In the ANPRM, RSPA requested comments on 63 primary questions, many 
of which had sub-elements, addressing: (1) Methods of improving the 
current system of placarding vehicles transporting hazardous materials; 
(2) methods to improve the system of identifying hazardous materials in 
transportation; (3) the feasibility and necessity of requiring carriers 
to maintain continually-monitored telephone contacts for emergency 
response information; and (4) methods for establishing and operating a 
central reporting system and center that could provide information to 
facilitate responses to incidents involving the transportation of 
hazardous materials. More than 230 comments were submitted in response 
to the ANPRM. Most commenters did not support a comprehensive 
modification of the existing hazard communication requirements. The 
commenters were overwhelmingly opposed to establishing a central 
reporting system and center, on the grounds that it would not be 
workable and would be too costly.
    On August 15, 1994, RSPA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking 
(NPRM) in the Federal Register proposing certain changes to the hazard 
communication requirements of the HMR. [59 FR 41848; Corrections to the 
NPRM were published Aug. 26, 1994 (59 FR 44230) and Aug. 30, 1994 (59 
FR 44795)] RSPA agreed with the central recommendation in the NAS 
report and most of the commenters to the ANPRM not to establish a 
national, central reporting system and computerized telecommunications 
data center. Accordingly, RSPA did not propose to establish a central 
reporting system and computerized telecommunications data center.
    More than 80 written comments from chemical companies, transport 
companies, farmers, trade associations, explosives manufacturers and 
distributors, police departments and fire associations, State 
governments, and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) were 
received in response to the NPRM. In addition, on October 18, 1994, a 
public hearing was held in Washington, DC. Twenty-four persons 
attended, and several presented written and oral statements. A 
transcript of the public hearing is on file in the Docket.

II. Regulatory Issues

A. Summary

    A majority of commenters supported RSPA's narrowing of the issues 
related to improvements to the current hazard identification and 
communication system and supported most of the proposals.
    The following is a discussion of the comments and regulatory 
changes made in this final rule.

B. Labeling and Placarding Requirements

    1. PIH label and placard. RSPA is adopting, as proposed, in 
Subparts E and F of Part 172, respectively, unique labels and placards 
for both liquids and gases that are poisonous by inhalation (PIH).
    Based on their severe inhalation hazards, certain materials are 
designated as poisonous by inhalation. The term ``material poisonous by 
inhalation'' is defined in 49 CFR 171.8. Classification criteria are 
set forth in Sec. 173.115 for gases and Sec. 173.132 for liquids. 
Specific regulations in Subparts C and D of Part 172 generally require 
that the words ``Inhalation Hazard'' be entered on each shipping paper 
and marked on each packaging in association with the proper shipping 
name for PIH materials. Packages of PIH materials must also be labeled 
and transport vehicles must be placarded, as appropriate. Currently 
emergency responders are alerted to the presence of materials poisonous 
by inhalation in transportation by these special package markings and 
shipping paper information. Since harmonizing domestic regulations with 
international standards in the U.N. Recommendations and adopting 
international labels and placards, hazard warning words on a label or 
placard are no longer required in the HMR. Because of the lack of 
hazard warning words or a distinguishing characteristic in the symbol 
on a POISON vs. POISON GAS label or placard to immediately warn 
emergency responders of the dangers associated with poisonous liquids 
or gases, RSPA believes the existing POISON or POISON GAS label and 
placard are not adequate in communicating the inhalation hazard of 
these materials.
    In the NPRM, RSPA proposed a distinctive label and placard for PIH 
materials. A majority of commenters supported adoption of a PIH label 
and placard, and others indicated that they would support a PIH label 
and placard if adopted by the U.N. Most commenters, both for or against 
the proposal, linked their positions to concerns for maintaining 
harmonization with the U.N. Recommendations in hazard communication. 
Commenters supporting a PIH label and placard stated that the new 
warnings would improve DOT's hazard communication system by creating an 
instantly recognizable difference between PIH materials and other 
poisons, thus further enhancing responder safety. The International 
Association of Fire Chiefs stated that changing the labeling/placarding 
from ``Poison'' to ``Poison

[[Page 1219]]

Inhalation Hazard'' is very appropriate and will be extremely 
beneficial to emergency responders. The Chemical Manufacturers 
Association (CMA) supported creation of a new placard for liquids and 
gases deemed poisonous by inhalation because of the additional guidance 
that would be provided to emergency responders; however, CMA urged RSPA 
to work with the U.N. to develop and gain acceptance of a new label and 
placard before modifying the HMR. The American Trucking Associations 
(ATA) supported adoption of a PIH label and placard in its comments to 
the ANPRM and continued that support in its comments to the NPRM. ATA 
indicated that the present system for identifying PIH materials is 
inadequate and confusing. ATA also suggested revisions to Secs. 171.11, 
171.12, and 171.12a, to allow continued use of the existing POISON and 
POISON GAS labels and placards for international shipments. The 
Chemical Waste Transportation Institute (CWTI) suggested that the 
``Inhalation Hazard'' marking prescribed in the current Sec. 172.313 be 
eliminated if PIH labels and placards are displayed in domestic 
transportation.
    Several supporters believe that, if RSPA adopts a PIH label and 
placard, the INHALATION HAZARD text ``must'' be displayed on the label 
and placard at all times. Many commenters supporting the proposed PIH 
label and placard asked RSPA to provide a transition period of at least 
one year for implementation.
    Commenters opposed to a U.S.-only PIH label and placard said such a 
provision would depart from the hazard communication system established 
in Docket HM-181 to achieve international uniformity. Other commenters 
opposing a PIH label and placard asserted that existing POISON and 
POISON GAS labels and placards clearly convey an adequate warning and 
are generally well understood.
    RSPA believes that a new PIH label and placard provide a 
distinctive warning to emergency responders of the unique hazards 
(extreme toxicity, high volatility) of PIH gases and vapors. RSPA 
intends to propose classification, hazard communication and packaging 
requirements for PIH materials for adoption in international 
transportation regulations during the 1997-98 biennium of the U.N. 
Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods. Requiring a 
specific PIH label and placard is an additional step in RSPA's effort, 
begun in 1985, to enhance safety in the transportation of PIH materials 
by establishing a complete system of transportation controls: 
Classification; hazard communication; and packaging. Adding a PIH label 
and placard to the hazard communication requirements also responds to a 
petition (P-1132) for rule change from the Compliance and Investigation 
Committee of the Cooperative Hazardous Materials Enforcement 
Development (COHMED) program. The COHMED program, made up of 
participants from Federal, State and local government agencies, and 
industry, is an outreach activity of RSPA that promotes coordination, 
cooperation, education and communication for the safe transportation of 
hazardous materials.
    In response to concerns expressed by commenters, if the new PIH 
label or placard is displayed, the ``Inhalation Hazard'' marking 
specified in Sec. 172.313 is not required on a package. However, 
packages being transported under the provisions in Secs. 171.11, 
171.12, or 171.12a, which are not labeled as required in this final 
rule, must display the ``Inhalation Hazard'' marking. RSPA is not 
adopting a requirement requested by commenters that display of text be 
required on labels and placards. RSPA believes that the distinct design 
and dark color of the symbol depicted on the new PIH label and placard 
adequately convey the appropriate information to alert responders to 
the dangers involving materials poisonous by inhalation. Also as 
requested by commenters, for highway and rail shipments of a material 
poisonous by inhalation, RSPA is including transitional provisions for 
continued use of the old POISON or POISON GAS placards until October 1, 
2001, which is consistent with the current transitional provisions in 
Sec. 171.14 for placarding highway shipments of hazardous materials 
(i.e., October 1, 2001).
    2. Lowering the placarding exception for use of the DANGEROUS 
placards from 2,268 kg (5,000 pounds) to 1,000 kilograms (2,205 
pounds). As proposed, RSPA is adopting, in the placarding provisions in 
Part 172, a requirement that limits use of the DANGEROUS placard for 
mixed loads of hazardous materials. RSPA is lowering from 2,268 
kilograms (5,000 pounds) to 1,000 kilograms (2,205 pounds) the quantity 
of one class or division of a hazardous material loaded at one facility 
for which a specific placard (e.g., CORROSIVE or FLAMMABLE) is 
required.
    A number of commenters opposed this proposal, citing the potential 
for confusion, additional training, placard proliferation, decreased 
hazard warning effectiveness, additional drivers needing a Commercial 
Driver's License (CDL), and cost to industry. The Conference on Safe 
Transportation of Hazardous Articles, Inc., urged RSPA not to implement 
the proposed change, stating that it would increase costs and cause a 
regulatory ``ripple effect'' associated with the reduction of the 
current placarding threshold.
    Farmland Industries, Inc. (Farmland), opposed lowering the quantity 
for which specific hazard class placarding is required and believed 
that modification of the use of the DANGEROUS placard would require 
greater investment in additional placards and training to obtain 
compliance with the regulations. Farmland stated that each of these 
investments adds costs to its products, which will ultimately be borne 
by the consumer. The International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA) 
opposed limiting use of the DANGEROUS placard. ISSA stated that, at a 
time when industry is still coming to terms with the massive changes 
brought about by HM-181, it is imperative to provide some consistency 
in the regulations to facilitate overall compliance and transportation 
safety.
    A number of commenters supported the proposal stating that safety 
would be improved by requiring more shipments to display specific 
hazard class and division warnings. The IAFC expressed support for the 
proposal because use of the DANGEROUS placard increases the risk to 
response personnel arriving at the scene of an emergency because the 
nature or characteristics of the hazardous material are not 
specifically identified, resulting in delaying decisions on how to 
mitigate the incident. Another commenter stated the DANGEROUS placard 
does not provide enough significant information to emergency responders 
trying to identify hazardous materials in a transport vehicle. The 
Compressed Gas Association supported the proposal to better identify 
the hazards. Shell Oil stated the presence of a DANGEROUS placard may, 
in some instances, delay effective action. Monsanto stated that the 
DANGEROUS placard should be eliminated altogether because its 
elimination will serve to further increase compliance and safety.
    RSPA believes that further limiting the use of the DANGEROUS 
placard by lowering the quantity from 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds) to 
1,000 kilograms (2,205 pounds) for which a specific placard is required 
will improve communication relative to the hazardous materials being 
transported on a vehicle. RSPA does not agree with the comments 
asserting that additional drivers will be requiring a CDL. Since these 
motor vehicles are already

[[Page 1220]]

placarded with a DANGEROUS placard, display of a specific placard will 
not affect or increase the number of drivers needing a CDL.
    3. Lowering the placarding exception threshold from 454 kg (1,001 
pounds) to 400 kg (882 pounds) aggregate gross weight of Table 2 
hazardous materials. In this final rule, RSPA is not lowering the 
placarding exception threshold in Sec. 172.504(c). RSPA proposed 
lowering the placarding exception threshold for hazardous materials in 
Table 2 from 454 kilograms (1,001 pounds) to 400 kilograms (882 
pounds). The exception allows for the transportation of up to 454 
kilograms (1,001 pounds) aggregate gross weight of ``Table 2'' 
hazardous materials in non-bulk packagings on a transport vehicle 
without placarding.
    More than 50 comments were received in opposition to the proposal. 
In support of their opposition to this proposal, commenters cited the 
potential for increased confusion, increased costs to industry, an 
increase in the number of drivers requiring a CDL, increased burden on 
small shippers, more placard-related prohibitions (i.e., tunnels, some 
expressway restrictions), training, placard ``proliferation,'' and 
reduced effectiveness of the placarding requirements.
    Some commenters in support of the lowering of the placarding 
exception, indicated that even small amounts of hazardous materials can 
cause injury or damage to the public, property, and the environment, 
and that without placards communication of this important information 
would be lacking. Monsanto said that the exception to the placarding 
requirement is inconsistent with other parts of the hazardous materials 
regulations requiring labeling and marking for smaller quantities of 
hazardous materials found in other sections of the regulations. 
Monsanto indicated that reduction of the weight limitation would lead 
to better communication for hazardous materials shipments, enhanced 
safety and better emergency response.
    RSPA views the proposed lowering of the placarding exception 
threshold as an incremental enhancement to safety. RSPA agrees with 
commenters that the number of drivers needing a CDL would increase 
because more vehicles would be placarded and that such a change would 
substantially increase compliance costs. Upon further consideration, 
RSPA has determined that the benefits of this safety enhancement do not 
outweigh the potential costs and is not adopting this proposal.
    4. Table 1 placard assignment--Organic peroxide, Type B, liquid or 
solid, temperature controlled. In Sec. 172.504, RSPA is adopting the 
proposal to require placarding of any quantity of ``Organic peroxides, 
Type B, temperature controlled'' material. In the NPRM, a proposal was 
made to include ``Organic peroxide, Type B, liquid or solid, 
temperature controlled'' in Table 1 of Sec. 172.504(e), which would 
require placarding in any quantity. Only two comments were received on 
this issue. PPG Industries, Inc., supported the change. J. B. Hunt 
Transport, Inc., recommended changing the classification of Organic 
peroxide, Type B, temperature controlled materials to a Class 
[Division] 1.3 Explosive, but did not provide any information to 
substantiate its proposal.
    RSPA believes that organic peroxides that require refrigeration for 
stabilization purposes during transport pose a substantial hazard in 
any incident that results in a loss of temperature control. These 
organic peroxides can decompose with such rapidity within a package 
that the resultant heat and gas will violently burst the package, 
creating a dangerous situation during which emergency measures and 
possible evacuation of the areas would need to be initiated. In order 
to make emergency responders aware of organic peroxides requiring 
temperature control, it is necessary to communicate the fact without 
regard to quantity. Therefore, RSPA is adding ``Organic peroxide, Type 
B, temperature controlled'' in placarding Table 1 of Sec. 172.504(e). 
The placarding requirements applicable to other organic peroxides 
remain in Table 2.
    5. Prohibited and permissive placarding: Extraneous information on 
placards and in placard holders. RSPA is revising Sec. 172.502 to 
prohibit extraneous information (e.g., ``DRIVE SAFELY'') on placards, 
in placard holders and on placard-type displays, as proposed. RSPA 
received 18 comments supporting the proposal to prohibit the display of 
extraneous information, such as the ``DRIVE SAFELY'' slogan, on a 
placard, placard-type display, and in a placard holder. Most of the 
commenters believed the prohibition will reduce confusion among 
emergency responders and increase placard effectiveness. ATA urged RSPA 
to allow a 7 year phase-out period. Dow Chemical Company supported this 
change, and requested that a reasonable phase-out period be allowed. 
Yellow Freight System, Inc. supported removal of extraneous information 
on placards, placard-type displays, and in placard holders and stated 
that other venues exist on tractors and trailers for carriers to more 
appropriately place messages unrelated to the safe transportation of 
hazardous materials. The State of Michigan, Department of State Police 
stated that elimination of the ``DRIVE SAFELY'' sign is an excellent 
change and should be adopted. The National Tank Truck Carriers, Inc. 
(NTTC) had no opposition to this proposal, but questioned whether 
``DRIVE SAFELY'' slogans on placard-type displays could be confused 
with ``alert words'' used on placards.
    Five commenters, including the National Private Truck Council, 
opposed the proposed prohibition, asserting that there is no evidence 
the ``DRIVE SAFELY'' display on placards and in placard holders 
confuses responders. The National Industrial Transportation League 
(NITL) stated that it could better support a rule which would simply 
forbid the marking of signs or slogans on vehicles, bulk packaging and 
containers in the ``future,'' but not require the removal of signs and 
slogans which currently exist. A commenter opposed to this change 
stated the current requirement in Sec. 172.502(a)(2), as it is 
currently written, is sufficient to prevent displays of conflicting 
slogans or markings on transport vehicles carrying hazardous materials.
    RSPA believes that extraneous information displayed on placards, 
placard-type displays, and in placard holders, such as ``DRIVE SAFELY'' 
and other slogans, detracts from the basic function of placards, and 
reduces the ability of emergency responders to readily recognize vital 
hazard alerting information. Placards must be strictly reserved for 
hazard communication with all other confusing or conflicting displays 
prohibited. Accordingly, RSPA is prohibiting the display of extraneous 
information on placards, placard-type displays, and in placard holders.
    RSPA agrees with those commenters requesting an extended compliance 
date consistent with the transitional provisions for placarding highway 
shipments (October 1, 2001) of hazardous materials for phasing out 
extraneous information. In the NPRM, RSPA proposed a compliance date of 
October 1, 1997, for mandatory removal of these slogans. Upon further 
consideration, RSPA believes a transition period consistent with the 
current provisions in Sec. 171.14(b) is appropriate and is providing a 
phase-out period until October 1, 2001, for industry to remove, cover, 
or obliterate extraneous slogans from placard displays.

[[Page 1221]]

C. Marking Requirements

    1. Identification number marking for packaged Poison Inhalation 
Hazard (PIH) materials. RSPA is revising Sec. 172.313 and adopting the 
proposal, with modification, to require that identification number 
markings be displayed on transport vehicles and freight containers to 
improve identification of a hazardous material poisonous by inhalation 
(PIH) offered in amounts of more than 1,000 kilograms (2,205 pounds) 
aggregate gross weight. RSPA proposed to require identification number 
markings on a transport vehicle or freight container containing non-
bulk packages having more than 400 kilograms (882 pounds) aggregate 
gross weight of a PIH material.
    Commenters, such as the Association of American Railroads (AAR), 
opposed this identification number marking on the basis that it would 
be redundant and burdensome to industry given RSPA's proposal to add a 
new PIH label and placard to more specifically communicate the 
inhalation hazard to emergency response personnel. Several commenters 
said it would not provide any safety benefit. Others warned the 
existing, well understood hazard communication system for poisonous 
materials could be weakened by introducing a plethora of confusing, 
redundant markings. Air Products and Chemicals, Inc. said that this 
change would cause it to modify existing customer delivery patterns to 
reduce the likelihood of multiple mixed loads of PIH materials.
    Other commenters, such as CWTI, supported the change, stating that 
this proposed change would more ``efficiently convey essential 
information'' from available sources and provide essential information 
not previously available because the shipment was not subject to the 
display of identification number markings on transport vehicles and 
freight containers. CMA expressed general support for the proposal, and 
believed that while this change would be relatively minor in nature, 
the change should help improve the hazard communication system and 
increase the safety of emergency responders. The 3M company recommended 
a 1,001 pound threshold for consistency with the existing placarding 
exception in Sec. 172.504.
    RSPA believes that requiring certain quantities of a packaged PIH 
material to be identified by an identification number marking display 
on a transport vehicle or freight container will increase the 
effectiveness of DOT's communication system for high hazard poisonous 
liquids and gases. This requirement will further enhance the 
effectiveness of the new PIH labels and placards by providing immediate 
information to emergency responders assisting them in addressing the 
hazards of PIH materials.
    In response to the concerns expressed by several commenters in 
regard to shipping mixed loads, (e.g., different kinds of poisonous 
gases in cylinders, assigned different identification numbers, which 
may weigh as much as 150 pounds gross weight), RSPA is raising the 
quantity threshold for identification number marking of a packaged PIH 
material from the proposed 400 kilograms (882 pounds) to 1,000 
kilograms (2,205 pounds) aggregate gross weight on a transport vehicle 
or freight container.
    2. Identification number marking on vehicles transporting non-bulk 
packages in large quantities. Section 172.301 is revised, and the 
proposal is adopted with modification, to require an identification 
number marking display on transport vehicles and freight containers 
containing large quantities of non-bulk packagings of hazardous 
materials having a single identification number, and includes a 
threshold of 4,000 kilograms (8,820 pounds) for those quantities. RSPA 
proposed to require display of identification numbers on vehicles 
transporting, in truckload or carload quantities, non-bulk packages of 
hazardous materials that are identified by a single identification 
number.
    Nineteen commenters supported this proposal. Nine commenters 
opposed it; however, six of these commenters said they would support it 
if RSPA clarified what constitutes a ``truckload'' or ``carload'' 
quantity.
    Several commenters urged RSPA to define ``truckload'' as ``fully 
loaded'' when a substantial capacity of the vehicle is ``occupied'' by 
packaged hazardous materials, or restrict application to common freight 
container size dimensions, such as 8' x  8' x  20' or 8' x  8' x  40'. 
Several commenters were unclear whether RSPA intended the marking 
requirements to be based on package weight or number; or whether the 
terms ``truckload'' or ``carload'' would include vans and other similar 
vehicles.
    Commenters opposed to the proposal asserted that the marking 
requirement might force businesses to change delivery patterns or 
customer service or to avoid mixing certain hazardous and non-hazardous 
loads.
    RSPA believes that a requirement for the display of identification 
number marking on transport vehicles and freight containers containing 
large quantities of hazardous materials in non-bulk packagings having a 
single identification number will assist emergency responders in 
accessing hazard mitigation information. In response to commenters 
concerns regarding the phrase ``truckload'' or ``carload'' quantity, 
RSPA has decided to avoid use of terms that could be confused with 
economic terminology. In this final rule, large quantities of hazardous 
materials in non-bulk packagings having a single identification number 
and having an aggregate gross weight of not less than 4,000 kilograms 
(8,820 pounds) on a transport vehicle or freight container would be 
subject to the requirement. Accordingly, the identification number 
specified for the hazardous material in the Sec. 172.101 Table must be 
displayed on a placard, orange panel or plain white square-on-point 
configuration as prescribed in Secs. 172.332 or 172.336, as 
appropriate.
    A new Sec. 172.323 was proposed for the new identification number 
requirement. After further consideration, RSPA believes it is more 
appropriate to consolidate this requirement under the general 
requirements for marking non-bulk packagings, in Sec. 172.301.
    3. Identification number marking visibility on closed transport 
vehicles or freight containers carrying cargo tanks and other bulk 
packagings. In Subpart D of Part 172, RSPA is adopting as proposed a 
requirement to specify that identification number markings are required 
on the outside of closed transport vehicles and freight containers 
carrying cargo tanks and other bulk packagings (e.g., intermediate bulk 
containers (IBCs)), when the identification number marking on the bulk 
package is not visible during transportation.
    NTTC and three other commenters supported the clarification to 
assure that markings will be visible on the exterior of a closed 
transport vehicle or freight container containing a hazardous material 
in a bulk packaging. The Rigid Intermediate Bulk Container Association 
(RIBCA) opposed the proposal, saying it is not unusual for one vehicle 
to contain four or more IBCs bearing four or more different 
identification numbers. RIBCA said the proposed clarification would 
require display of many identification numbers on vehicles that would 
confuse responders. RIBCA suggested use of primary class placards or 
identification number displays for IBCs bearing ``a single 
identification number.''
    RSPA believes that the display of identification numbers on the 
outside of

[[Page 1222]]

transport vehicles that contain bulk packages of hazardous materials is 
consistent with the requirement that identification numbers on the bulk 
package be visible in transportation. RSPA does not agree that 
identification number marking displays on closed transport vehicles 
containing other bulk packagings (e.g., IBCs) should only apply if the 
IBCs in the transport vehicle or freight container bear the same 
identification number. Accordingly, RSPA is requiring the display of 
identification numbers on the outside of closed transport vehicles and 
freight containers when they contain any bulk packaging.
    4. FUMIGANT marking on transport vehicles or freight containers 
which contain fumigated lading. In Sec. 173.9, RSPA is adopting its 
proposal, with modification, to revise and expand the requirements for 
display of a FUMIGANT marking that is consistent with international 
requirements. RSPA is: (1) extending the requirements to display the 
fumigant marking to every material used to fumigate the contents of a 
transport vehicle or freight container; (2) expanding the requirements 
to cover all modes of transportation; (3) specifying that a fumigated 
transport vehicle or freight container is a ``package'' for application 
of the fumigation requirements; (4) adopting the international fumigant 
marking; and (5) consistent with the U.N. Recommendations, specifying 
that a shipping paper accompanying an international shipment must 
contain hazard warning information concerning the fumigant.
    Most commenters supported application of the FUMIGANT marking to 
all modes of transportation and revision of the marking for consistency 
with the U.N. Recommendations. The IAFC stated that even though there 
are not many documented incidents where the lack of a FUMIGANT marking 
has caused an accident, the potential for such accidents exists 
throughout the country. The Arizona Department of Public Safety 
supported the change, stating:

    Your proposed revision would have undoubtedly prevented the 
injury of one of our Arizona Highway Patrol Commercial Vehicle 
Safety Specialists last year, when he entered a trailer on a state 
highway to inspect its contents. He was unaware that it had recently 
been fumigated with methyl bromide, and was quickly injured by the 
fumigant. He was treated at a hospital and by his personal 
physician, and lost time off work from the incident.
    This officer was one of our hazardous materials emergency 
responders, and had been trained to the OSHA 1910-120 [sic] 
Hazardous Materials Technician level, with over 200 hours of 
training. However, since he was unaware of the toxic fumigated 
nature of the trailer, he did not utilize the personal protective 
clothing and self-contained-breathing-apparatus he was equipped 
with.

One commenter supported the proposal and stated that the fumigation 
issue is of particular interest in Washington and Oregon because both 
States have ports and receive grain from other States via highway and 
rail.
    Only one commenter, a large motor carrier, opposed the proposal, 
pointing out that the fumigant marking was designed for large enclosed 
places with little or no opportunity for escape of toxins upon opening 
(such as a cargo aircraft or vessel). The commenter stated that it 
would not be beneficial to small ground transportation vehicles that 
are rarely, if ever, opened in confined spaces.
    The Air Transport Association of America inquired whether this 
provision would require ``small shippers of agricultural products to 
provide a fumigant warning (if product has been treated) on shipper 
provided packaging.'' The requirement to display a FUMIGANT warning is 
applicable to freight containers which contain fumigated lading, and 
not to aircraft compartments containing crates, boxes or other packages 
containing agricultural produce or perishable products.
    In response to another commenter, the wording ``should indicate'' 
in proposed Sec. 173.9(f) is changed to read ``must indicate,'' 
relative to fumigation information on international transport 
documents.
    After further consideration, RSPA is not adopting as proposed, the 
training and testing requirement prescribed in Subpart H of Part 172, 
as it applies to persons who offer and accept a material for 
transportation which has been fumigated. However, if other hazardous 
materials are being transported, the training requirements of the HMR 
apply. RSPA believes that persons offering or transporting fumigated 
loads must have knowledge relative to the fumigated load. Accordingly, 
Sec. 173.9 is revised to specify that such persons must be informed of 
the requirements of this section which are applicable solely because 
the lading has been fumigated and, for the purpose of this section, is 
a package containing a hazardous material.
    For the purposes of compliance with this section of the HMR, RSPA 
has made the determination that a fumigated load is a ``package.'' This 
should resolve concerns relative to the potential for increased 
financial responsibility levels, as required by the Federal Motor 
Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR), 49 CFR part 387.
    Based on the forgoing, RSPA believes that a FUMIGANT marking for 
all modes of transportation is necessary and that display of the 
proposed FUMIGANT marking will minimize the risk of exposure and 
prevent injury from poisonous or noxious materials. It should be noted 
that requirements in Sec. 176.76(i) [issued under the final rule in HM-
215A; 59 FR 67390] for fumigants transported by vessel became effective 
October 1, 1996. On April 29, 1996, a final rule [HM-222A; FR 61 18926] 
was published in the Federal Register which redesignated Sec. 176.76(i) 
as Sec. 176.76(h).

D. Emergency Response Information

    1. Emergency response information readily available to authorities. 
RSPA proposed to clarify certain provisions of the emergency response 
information requirements in Subpart G of Part 172, and corresponding 
Secs. 175.33, 176.30, and 177.817. Upon further consideration, based on 
comments received in opposition to this proposal, RSPA is not adopting 
the changes proposed in Sec. 172.602 and the corresponding sections. 
RSPA believes that the basic elements of the proposed change are 
already adequately covered by the requirements in Sec. 172.600(c).
    2. Carrier notification and information contact. RSPA is adding 
Sec. 172.606 to the HMR and adopting, as proposed, a requirement that 
each carrier who transports a hazardous material, for which a shipping 
paper is required, to instruct the operator of a motor vehicle, train, 
aircraft, or vessel to contact the carrier in the event of an incident 
involving the hazardous material.
    Generally, most commenters supported improvements to emergency 
response information requirements. Most of these commenters did not 
specifically address their comments to the proposal for carrier 
information contact and notification. Of the ten comments which 
specifically addressed this proposal, approximately five commenters 
supported it. The American Trucking Associations had no comment on this 
proposal.
    Many of the commenters confused the proposal for carrier 
information contact with the proposal for marking an emergency response 
telephone number on a motor vehicle when disconnected from its motive 
power and stored at other than a carrier's, consignee's, or consignor's 
facility. One commenter said that the proposal was unnecessary because 
carriers should already be instructing their operators to contact

[[Page 1223]]

them in the event of an incident involving hazardous materials, as part 
of the driver training requirements under Subpart H of Part 172.
    RSPA believes that required information available at the scene of a 
hazardous materials incident meets most of the immediate information 
needs of responders. However, in some instances the operator of a motor 
vehicle may not be able to initiate appropriate mitigation procedures 
without the carriers involvement. RSPA believes better coordination of 
emergency response and spill mitigation actions will result from 
specific requirements for carrier instruction to operators regarding 
incident notification; therefore, RSPA agrees with NAS's recommendation 
that requiring a carrier information contact will respond in part to 
concerns addressing improvements to the hazardous materials 
identification system. In this final rule, RSPA is requiring that a 
carrier who transports or accepts a hazardous material for 
transportation instruct the operator of a transport vehicle to contact 
the carrier following an incident.
    3. Mark carrier telephone number on transport vehicle, or have 
shipping papers and emergency response information located on transport 
vehicle when a transport vehicle is separated from its motive power. 
RSPA is adopting, as proposed in new Sec. 172.606, a requirement that a 
motor carrier mark its telephone number on a highway transport vehicle, 
trailer or semi-trailer, or have shipping papers and emergency response 
information located on the transport vehicle, when separated from its 
motive power away from a consignee's, consignor's, or carrier's 
facility. Most comments on this proposal supported the concept, but 
differed on how to implement it. Several motor carriers noted that many 
carriers already mark their names on transport vehicles and asked RSPA 
to exempt companies already displaying this information. Other 
commenters cited confusion over marking trailers used by more than one 
carrier; they said such trailers should bear the lessee's name and 
phone number. Illinois DOT supported the proposal and stated that a 
consistent location should be specified, such as a holder on the right 
front corner, to ensure copies of shipping papers and emergency 
response information are on a transport vehicle when disconnected from 
its motive power. NITL generally supported RSPA's proposal in 
Sec. 172.606(b), but requested exceptions for those carriers who 
already prominently display their names and principal place of business 
from having to mark their vehicles with the telephone number of the 
motor carrier.
    RSPA believes that an unattended motor vehicle (e.g., a trailer or 
semi-trailer disconnected from its motive power) carrying hazardous 
materials must be sufficiently identified to communicate information 
regarding hazardous materials in the transport vehicle or to provide a 
telephone number where the information would be available. In some 
instances, a semi-trailer may be in an interchange operation in which 
the motor carrier using the semi-trailer is not the motor carrier whose 
name is displayed on the vehicle, or a leasing company name may be 
prominently displayed on a semi-trailer. In either of these instances, 
the company's name appearing on the semi-trailer would not lead 
directly to information regarding the hazardous material being 
transported. RSPA acknowledges that many transport vehicles identified 
and operated by the same company are marked with the company's name and 
address. RSPA does not believe such operations should be excepted from 
complying with any method prescribed in Sec. 172.606(b) (1), (2), or 
(3).

E. Editorial Correction and Clarification

    1. Notice to train crews of placarded cars. In Sec. 174.26, RSPA is 
adopting, as proposed, a requirement that a train consist be updated to 
reflect the current position in the train of each rail car containing 
hazardous materials. NTSB supported clarification of a provision in 
Sec. 174.26, which requires that a train crew must have a document that 
reflects the current position in the train of each rail car containing 
a hazardous material, stating:

    The Board supports the proposed change to 49 CFR Section 
174.26(b) that would require a traincrew [sic] to have a current 
record or updated consist to reflect the position in the train of 
each rail car containing a hazardous material. The proposed revision 
would satisfy action requested in Safety Recommendation R-9-38, 
which was issued by the Board to the Federal Railroad Administration 
following a train derailment in Akron, Ohio, on February 26, 1989.

    RSPA proposed that an updated train consist be permitted to meet 
this requirement. The existing requirement in the HMR specifies that 
the train crew must have a document indicating the position in the 
train of each loaded placarded car containing hazardous materials, 
except when the position is changed or the placarded car is placed in 
the train by a member of the train crew. Although the provision 
specifies that a train consist may be used, it does not state that the 
train consist must be ``updated'' to meet this requirement. AAR and 
several rail carriers expressed concern that the proposed language as 
written does not clearly state that train crews can attach a document, 
which reflects current train placement, to the train consist to 
indicate changes in the placement of hazardous materials cars in 
trains. AAR stated that train crews should be specifically authorized 
to modify consists by inserting a ``reference'' in the consist to 
additional documents in the train crew's possession.
    Along with NTSB, FRA and RSPA believe this section should be 
clarified to specify that an updated train consist must be used to meet 
this requirement. In response to AAR's and several rail carriers' 
concerns for further clarification of the term ``updated'' as it 
applies to modifying train consists to reflect the train placement 
requirement, RSPA is revising this section to allow the use of appended 
or attached documents that reflect current train placement. This 
addresses situations in which modifying a train consist is accomplished 
by inserting attachments (e.g., track lists and work orders, etc.) that 
reflect the current position in the train of cars containing hazardous 
materials. In this final rule, a train consist must be updated (i.e., 
modified, changed, or appended) and used by the train crews to 
accurately reflect changes in the placement of hazardous materials cars 
in trains.

III. Related Rulemakings

    On June 5, 1996, RSPA issued a final rule [HM-216; 61 FR 28666], 
which contained a number of changes to the rail requirements in the 
HMR. RSPA revised Secs. 172.510 and 172.526 to delete reference to the 
use of the RESIDUE placard and removed the RESIDUE placard as shown in 
the placarding examples, respectively. RSPA also removed the special 
documentation requirements of Sec. 174.25 requiring placard notations 
or endorsements on shipping papers (e.g., waybills, switching ticket, 
or switching order). In addition, RSPA deleted paragraph (a) of 
Sec. 174.26, regarding notices showing the location in each train of 
each rail car placarded EXPLOSIVES 1.1 or 1.2, POISON GAS, Division 2.3 
Hazard Zone A, and Division 6.1, PG I, Hazard Zone A materials, and 
revised and redesignated paragraph (b) as paragraph (a).
    Since the provisions applying to the specifications and use of the 
RESIDUE placard have been removed in HM-216, the change proposed in 
Sec. 172.510 (HM-206), regarding reference to the POISON-RESIDUE and 
POISON

[[Page 1224]]

INHALATION HAZARD-RESIDUE placards, is no longer necessary. The action 
taken in HM-216 in Sec. 174.25 to remove the requirements for placard 
endorsement and notation on rail billings, makes the proposed change in 
this section referencing the POISON INHALATION-HAZARD placard 
unnecessary. In this final rule, for ease of understanding, the text of 
Sec. 174.26 contained in Docket HM-216 is republished.
    On May 30, 1996, RSPA issued a final rule [Docket HM-222B; 61 FR 
27166], which revised the requirement in Sec. 177.841 to allow 
foodstuffs which are loaded in a closed unit load device to be 
transported in the same motor vehicle with poisons that are loaded in a 
separate closed unit load device. In this final rule, RSPA is revising 
Sec. 177.841 to include reference to the new POISON INHALATION HAZARD 
label.

IV. Section-by-section highlights

    This section-by-section summary addresses highlights of the changes 
to the hazard communications requirements. In addition, the following 
table is provided as an aid to readers and provides a summary of 
changes made in this final rule and their respective compliance dates.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Section                           Action                  Discussion            Compliance date   
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sec.  172.301......................  ID No. marking on vehicle    New requirement.......  Oct. 1, 1997.         
                                      for large quantities (4,000 kg) in non-                                                  
                                      bulk packages.                                                            
Sec.  172.313......................  ID No. marking on vehicle     New requirement......  Oct. 1, 1997.         
                                      for a PIH material with                                                   
                                       1,000 kg in                                                   
                                      non-bulk packages.                                                        
Sec.  172.328......................  ID No. marking display on    New requirement.......  Oct. 1, 1997          
                                      closed vehicle containing                                                 
                                      cargo tanks.                                                              
Sec.  172.331......................  ID No. marking display on    Expansion of current    Oct. 1, 1997          
                                      closed vehicle containing    requirement                                  
                                      other bulk packages (e.g.,   applicable to                                
                                      IBCs).                       portable tanks.                              
Secs.  172.416 & 172.429...........  PIH labels for both liquids  Replaces POISON label   Oct. 1, 1997.         
                                      and gases that are           and POISON GAS label                         
                                      poisonous if inhaled.        design.                                      
Sec.  172.504(b)...................  Specific placard required    Reduction of quantity   Oct. 1, 1997.         
                                      when  1,000 kg    from 2,268 kg for use                        
                                      of one class on a vehicle.   of DANGEROUS placard                         
                                                                   for mixed loads.                             
Sec.  172.606(a)...................  Carrier must instruct        New requirement.......  Oct. 1, 1997.         
                                      operator of motor vehicle                                                 
                                      to contact the company in                                                 
                                      the event of a hazmat                                                     
                                      incident.                                                                 
Sec.  172.606(b)...................  Requiring information with   New requirement.......  Oct. 1, 1997.         
                                      parked (dropped) motor                                                    
                                      vehicle.                                                                  
Secs.  172.302 & 173.9.............  FUMIGANT marking, applying   Expansion of existing   Oct. 1, 2001.         
                                      to all modes.                requirements and                             
                                                                   adoption of                                  
                                                                   international design.                        
Sec.  172.502......................  Prohibited display of        Expansion of existing   Oct. 1, 2001.         
                                      extraneous information on    requirements.                                
                                      placard and in placard                                                    
                                      holder.                                                                   
Secs.  172.540 & 172.555...........  PIH placards for both        Replaces POISON and     Oct. 1, 2001.         
                                      liquids and gases that are   POISON GAS placard                           
                                      poisonous if inhaled.        design.                                      
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Section 171.8. Although not proposed, in order to assist persons in 
locating the requirements for transporting lading which has been 
fumigated, the entry `` `Fumigated lading' (See Secs. 172.302(g) and 
173.9)'' is being added to the definitions in Sec. 171.8.
    Section 171.11, 171.12 and 171.12a. In Secs. 171.11(d)(9)(iii), 
171.12(b)(8)(iii) and 171.12a(b)(5)(iii), the words ``POISON INHALATION 
HAZARD'' replace the word ``POISON'' in reference to labeling poison 
inhalation hazard materials other than gases.
    Section 171.14. On September 26, 1996, a final rule was published 
in the Federal Register [Docket HM-181H; 61 FR 50616] which removed 
obsolete transition dates in Sec. 171.14. New paragraphs (a), (b), and 
(c) contain all remaining transitional provisions implementing changes 
adopted under Docket HM-181. In this final rule (HM-206), paragraph (b) 
is revised to allow continued use of the old placards for PIH 
materials, in accordance with the Placard Substitution Table provided 
in this section. Accordingly, for highway and rail shipments, mandatory 
use of the new PIH placards [for Division 2.3 and Division 6.1, PG I 
materials] begins on October 1, 2001, which is consistent with other 
transitional placarding provisions for highway shipments of hazardous 
materials.
    Section 172.101. On April 29,1996, a final rule was published in 
the Federal Register [Docket HM-222A; 61; FR 18926]. In this final 
rule, the Sec. 172.101 Hazardous Materials Table (Sec. 172.101 HMT) was 
reformatted to reduce the volume of the regulations and make them 
easier to use. A numerical identifier is now shown in the Sec. 172.101 
HMT in place of the label name. A ``Label Substitution Table,'' was 
added preceding the HMT to identify which label corresponds to a label 
code (i.e., numerical identifier) in Column (6). In this final rule 
(HM-206), the ``Label Substitution Table,'' in Sec. 172.101(g), is 
amended to include the new label name ``Poison Inhalation Hazard'' and 
label code ``6.1 (I, Zone A and B, inhalation hazard),'' in its 
appropriate sequence.
    Section 172.301. A new paragraph (a)(3) is added in this section 
requiring an identification number marking on transport vehicles and 
freight containers containing large quantities (i.e., not less than 
4,000 kilograms (8,820 pounds)) of hazardous materials in non-bulk 
packagings having a single identification number. Paragraph (a)(1) is 
also revised to more appropriately include the exception from 
identification number marking for ORM-D and limited quantity materials, 
currently provided in paragraph (f)(1). Accordingly, paragraph (f)(1) 
is removed, and paragraph (f)(2), which is obsolete, is removed.
    Section 172.302. A new paragraph (g) is added to reference the 
fumigation marking requirements in Sec. 173.9.
    Section 172.313. Paragraph (a) is revised to include an exception 
from the

[[Page 1225]]

``Inhalation Hazard'' marking requirement, provided packages are 
already labeled or placarded with the new PIH label or placard. 
Paragraph (c) is added to require that transport vehicles or freight 
containers containing more than 1,000 kilograms (2,205 pounds) 
aggregate gross weight of non-bulk packages containing a material 
poisonous by inhalation must be marked with the identification number 
of that material. This is an increase in the quantity threshold (i.e., 
2,205 pounds) for the identification number marking display for a PIH 
shipment in non-bulk packagings from the proposed 400 kilograms (882 
pounds).
    Section 172.328. Paragraph (a)(3) is added to clarify that an 
identification number marking must be displayed on a transport vehicle 
or freight container containing a hazardous material in a cargo tank, 
if the identification number marking on the cargo tank is not visible 
during transportation.
    Section 172.331. Paragraph (c) is added to clarify that an 
identification number marking must be displayed on a transport vehicle 
or freight container containing a hazardous material in a bulk 
packaging (e.g., an IBC) other than a cargo tank, portable tank, tank 
car and multi-unit tank car tank, if the identification number marking 
on the bulk packaging is not visible during transportation.
    Section 172.332. Paragraph (a) is revised to reference new marking 
requirements in Secs. 172.301 and 172.313.
    Section 172.400. The table of label designations in paragraph (b) 
of this section is revised by adding reference to the new POISON 
INHALATION HAZARD label (Sec. 172.429) for Division 6.1, PG I, Zone A 
and B materials. The entry for the POISON label applying to 6.1, PG I 
and II materials is revised to read ``other than inhalation hazard.''
    Section 172.416. This section is revised to prescribe the new 
POISON GAS label.
    Section 172.429. This section is added to prescribe the new POISON 
INHALATION HAZARD label.
    Section 172.502. Paragraph (a)(2) is revised to specifically 
prohibit display of extraneous information, signs, or slogans (e.g., 
DRIVE SAFELY) on placards, placard-type displays, and in placard 
holders that by their color, shape, design or content could be mistaken 
for a hazard warning placard. A mandatory compliance date of October 1, 
2001 is provided for removal of extraneous information from placards, 
placard-type displays, and in placard holders.
    Section 172.504. Paragraph (b) is revised by lowering from 2,268 
kilograms (5,000 pounds) to 1,000 kilograms (2,205 pounds) aggregate 
gross weight, the amount of one category of material contained on a 
transport vehicle, freight container or rail car for which specific 
placarding is required, limiting use of the DANGEROUS placard. In 
paragraph (e), Table 1 placard assignments are revised to add the new 
POISON INHALATION HAZARD placard (Sec. 172.555) for Division 6.1, PG I, 
Zone A and B materials and to include the entry ``5.2 (Organic 
peroxide, Type B, liquid or solid, temperature controlled)'' in the 
first column, the placard name ``ORGANIC PEROXIDE'' in the second 
column, and ``Sec. 172.552'' in the third column. In Table 2, the entry 
``5.2'' is replaced by the entry ``5.2 (Other than Organic peroxides, 
Type B, liquid or solid, temperature controlled)'' in the first column. 
In paragraph (f), an exception is provided from displaying a POISON 
placard in those instances when a POISON INHALATION HAZARD placard or 
POISON GAS placard is required.
    Section 172.505. Paragraph (a) is revised to replace the word 
``POISON'' with the words ``POISON INHALATION HAZARD'' to correctly 
reference the new placard in the new Sec. 172.555 for Division 6.1, PG 
I, Zone A and B materials.
    Section 172.510. Since the provisions applying to the 
specifications and use of the RESIDUE placard have been removed (HM-
216), the change proposed in Sec. 172.510 (HM-206), regarding reference 
to the POISON-RESIDUE and POISON INHALATION HAZARD- RESIDUE placards, 
is no longer necessary. In this final rule, paragraph (b) is removed, 
as requirements for fumigated transport vehicles are relocated to 
Secs. 172.302(g) and 173.9, and paragraph (c) is redesignated as 
paragraph (b), and the words ``POISON GAS or POISON'' are replaced with 
the words ``POISON GAS or POISON INHALATION HAZARD.''
    Section 172.540. This section is revised to prescribe the new 
POISON GAS placard.
    Section 172.555. Section 172.555 is added to prescribe the new 
POISON INHALATION HAZARD placard.
    Section 172.602. RSPA proposed to revise paragraph (c) of this 
section to clarify that emergency response information must be 
``readily available to authorities''; however RSPA is not adopting the 
proposed language in paragraph (c) because the basic elements of the 
proposed change are adequately covered by the requirements in 
Sec. 172.600(c). Paragraph (c)(1) of this section is revised to include 
reference to the new Sec. 172.606, relative to carrier information 
contact.
    Section 172.606. This section is added to require each carrier who 
transports a hazardous material to instruct the operator of a motor 
vehicle, train, aircraft, or vessel to contact the carrier in the event 
of an incident involving a hazardous material in transportation. This 
section prescribes information requirements for a motor vehicle (e.g. 
trailer or semi-trailer) separated from its motive power and parked at 
other than a consignee's, consignor's or carrier's facility.
    Section 173.9. The FUMIGANT marking requirements are revised and 
expanded by (1) making them applicable to every material used to 
fumigate the contents of a transport vehicle or freight container; (2) 
expanding their application to all modes of transportation; (3) 
specifying that a fumigated transport vehicle or freight container is a 
``package'' for application of the fumigation requirements; (4) 
adopting the international fumigant marking format; and (5) specifying 
that a shipping paper accompanying an international shipment must 
contain hazard warning information concerning the fumigant. In this 
final rule, the proposed paragraph (g) is redesignated as paragraph 
(h), and a new paragraph (g) is added to specify that persons subject 
to the requirements of this section must be informed of the 
requirements of this section.
    Section 173.29. For clarity, the introductory text of paragraph 
(b)(1) is revised to add the phrase ``any other markings indicating the 
material is hazardous (e.g., RQ, INHALATION HAZARD).''
    Section 174.26. Paragraph (a) is revised to specify that a train 
consist must be ``updated'' to reflect the current position in the 
train of each rail car containing a hazardous material. The text is 
modified to allow the use of appended or attached documents to reflect 
train placement. For ease of understanding, the complete text in this 
section is republished as contained in the final rule in Docket HM-216.
    Section 174.680. An editorial correction is made in this section to 
add a reference to the new POISON INHALATION HAZARD label to prohibit 
carrying poisonous materials in the same rail car with foodstuffs.
    Section 175.630. This section is revised to add reference to the 
new POISON INHALATION HAZARD label to prohibit carrying poisonous 
materials in the same compartment of an aircraft with foodstuffs, and 
to delete obsolete references to ``etiologic'' substances.

[[Page 1226]]

    Section 176.600. An editorial correction is made in this section to 
add a reference to the new POISON INHALATION HAZARD label to prohibit 
carrying poisonous materials in the same vessel stowage area with 
foodstuffs.
    Section 177.841. This section is revised for consistency with the 
changes in the final rule under Docket HM-222B [61 FR 27166; May 30, 
1996], which revised requirements to prohibit carrying poisonous 
materials in the same motor vehicle with foodstuffs, and an editorial 
correction is made to add a reference to the new POISON INHALATION 
HAZARD label.

V. Regulatory Analyses and Notices

A. Executive Order 12866 and DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures

    This final rule is considered a non-significant regulatory action 
under section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866 and, therefore, was not 
reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget. This rulemaking 
proceeding was originally considered significant because it was 
required by Sec. 25 of the Hazardous Materials Transportation Uniform 
Safety Act of 1990 (HMTUSA), and included consideration of methods for 
establishing and operating a central reporting system and computerized 
telecommunications data center covering all shipments of hazardous 
materials by any mode of transportation, as well as improving the 
system for placarding vehicles transporting hazardous materials. 
However, this final rule makes relatively minor, incremental changes in 
the regulations concerning placarding and other means of communicating 
the hazards of materials in transportation. RSPA ended its 
consideration of the central reporting system and computerized data 
center, based on the adverse recommendation of the National Academy of 
Sciences (NAS) study (also required by Sec. 25), the lack of support 
from the regulated community, and the estimated high costs of 
establishing such a system.
    The original regulatory evaluation was reexamined and modified. The 
economic impact of this rule will result in only minimal costs to 
certain persons subject to the HMR. A significantly revised regulatory 
evaluation reflecting the reduced economic impact of this final rule is 
available for review in the docket.

B. Executive Order 12612

    This final rule has been analyzed in accordance with the principles 
and criteria contained in Executive Order 12612 (``Federalism''). The 
Federal law expressly preempts State, local, and Indian tribe 
requirements applicable to the transportation of hazardous material 
that cover certain subjects and are not substantively the same as 
Federal requirements. 49 U.S.C. 5125(b)(1). These subjects are:
    (1) The designation, description, and classification of hazardous 
material;
    (2) The packing, repacking, handling, labeling, marking, and 
placarding of hazardous material;
    (3) The preparation, execution, and use of shipping documents 
pertaining to hazardous material, and requirements respecting the 
number, content, and placement of such documents;
    (4) The written notification, recording, and reporting of the 
unintentional release in transportation of hazardous material; or
    (5) The design, manufacturing, fabrication, marking, maintenance, 
reconditioning, repairing, or testing of a package or container which 
is represented, marked, certified, or sold as qualified for use in the 
transportation of hazardous material.
    This final rule preempts State, local, or Indian tribe requirements 
concerning these subjects unless the non-Federal requirements are 
``substantively the same'' (see 49 CFR 107.202(d)) as the Federal 
requirements.
    Federal law 49 U.S.C. 5125(b)(2) provides that if DOT issues a 
regulation concerning any of the covered subjects, DOT must determine 
and publish in the Federal Register the effective date of Federal 
preemption. That effective date may not be earlier than the 90th day 
following the date of issuance of the final rule and not later than two 
years after the date of issuance. RSPA has determined that the 
effective date of Federal preemption for these requirements will be 
October 1, 1997. Thus, RSPA lacks discretion in this area, and 
preparation of a federalism assessment is not warranted.

C. Regulatory Flexibility Act

    I certify that this final rule will not have a significant economic 
impact on a substantial number of small entities. Although this final 
rule applies to all shippers and carriers of hazardous materials, some 
of whom are small entities, the requirements contained herein would not 
result in significant economic impacts.

D. Paperwork Reduction Act

    The information collection requirements in 49 CFR Parts 172 through 
177 pertaining to shipping papers have been approved under OMB approval 
number 2137-0035. The requirements in Sec. 173.9 that a shipping paper 
contain hazard warning information concerning the fumigant for an 
international shipment insignificantly increases the amount of burden 
imposed by this collection. This information is a current requirement 
for international shipments by vessel. RSPA believes that this change 
in burden is not sufficient to warrant revision of the currently 
approved information collection. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 
1995, no person is required to respond to a collection of information 
unless it displays a valid OMB control number.

E. Regulation Identifier Number (RIN)

    A regulation identifier number (RIN) is assigned to each regulatory 
action listed in the Unified Agenda of Federal Regulations. The 
Regulatory Information Service Center publishes the Unified Agenda in 
April and October of each year. The RIN number contained in the heading 
of this document can be used to cross-reference this action with the 
Unified Agenda.

List of Subjects

49 CFR Part 171

    Exports, Hazardous materials transportation, Hazardous waste, 
Imports, Incorporation by reference, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

49 CFR Part 172

    Hazardous materials transportation, Hazardous waste, Labeling, 
Marking, Packaging and containers, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

49 CFR Part 173

    Hazardous materials transportation, Packaging and containers, 
Radioactive materials, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, 
Uranium.

49 CFR Part 174

    Hazardous materials transportation, Radioactive materials, Railroad 
safety.

49 CFR Part 175

    Air carriers, Hazardous materials transportation, Radioactive 
materials, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

49 CFR Part 176

    Hazardous materials transportation, Maritime carriers, Radioactive 
materials, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

49 CFR Part 177

    Hazardous materials transportation, Motor carriers, Radioactive 
materials, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

[[Page 1227]]

    In consideration of the foregoing, 49 CFR Chapter I is amended as 
follows:

PART 171--GENERAL INFORMATION, REGULATIONS, AND DEFINITIONS

    1. The authority citation for part 171 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5101-5127; 49 CFR 1.53.


Sec. 171.8  [Amended]

    2. In Sec. 171.8, the definition for ``Fumigated lading'' is added 
in alphabetical order to read as follows:


Sec. 171.8  Definitions and abbreviations.

* * * * *
    Fumigated lading. See Secs. 172.302(g) and 173.9.
* * * * *


Sec. 171.11  [Amended]

    3. In Sec. 171.11, in paragraph (d)(9)(iii), the words ``with 
`POISON' '' are replaced with the words ``with `POISON INHALATION 
HAZARD' ''.


Sec. 171.12  [Amended]

    4. In Sec. 171.12, in paragraph (b)(8)(iii), the words ``with 
`POISON' '' are replaced with the words ``with `POISON INHALATION 
HAZARD' ''.


Sec. 171.12a  [Amended]

    5. In Sec. 171.12a, in paragraph (b)(5)(iii), the words ``with 
`POISON' '' are replaced with the words ``with `POISON INHALATION 
HAZARD' ''.
    6. In Sec. 171.14, paragraph (b) is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 171.14  Transitional provisions for implementing requirements 
based on the UN Recommendations.

* * * * *
    (b) Transitional placarding provisions. (1) Until October 1, 2001, 
placards which conform to specifications for placards in effect on 
September 30, 1991 or placards specified in the December 21, 1990 final 
rule may be used, for highway transportation only, in place of the 
placards specified in subpart F of part 172 of this subchapter, in 
accordance with the following table:

                       Placard Substitution Table                       
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                               Current placard    Old (Sept. 30, 1991)  
 Hazard class or division No.        name             placard name      
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Division 1.1.................  Explosives 1.1.  Explosives A.           
Division 1.2.................  Explosives 1.2.  Explosives A.           
Division 1.3.................  Explosives 1.3.  Explosives B.           
Division 1.4.................  Explosives 1.4.  Dangerous.              
Division 1.5.................  Explosives 1.5.  Blasting agents.        
Division 1.6.................  Explosives 1.6.  Dangerous.              
Division 2.1.................  Flammable gas..  Flammable gas.          
Division 2.2.................  Nonflammable     Nonflammable gas.       
                                gas.                                    
Division 2.3.................  Poison gas.....  Poison gas.             
Class 3......................  Flammable......  Flammable.              
Combustible liquid...........  Combustible....  Combustible.            
Division 4.1.................  Flammable solid  Flammable solid.        
Division 4.2.................  Spontaneously    Flammable solid.        
                                combustible.                            
Division 4.3.................  Dangerous when   Flammable solid W.      
                                wet.                                    
Division 5.1.................  Oxidizer.......  Oxidizer.               
Division 5.2.................  Organic          Organiic peroxide.      
                                peroxide.                               
Division 6.1, PG I (Zone A     Poison           Poison.                 
 and B, inhalation hazard).     inhalation                              
                                hazard.                                 
Division 6.1, PG I and II      Poison.........  Poison                  
 (other than Zone A and B).                                             
Division 6.1, PG III.........   Keep away from  (not applicable).       
                                food.                                   
Class 7......................  Radioactive....  Radioactive.            
Class 8......................  Corrosive......  Corrosive.              
Class 9......................  Class 9........  (none required).        
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (2) For materials poisonous by inhalation, for highway and rail 
transportation only, placards specified in the January 8, 1997, final 
rule may be used, in accordance with the Placard Substitution Table in 
paragraph (b)(1) of this section.
* * * * *

PART 172-- HAZARDOUS MATERIALS TABLE, SPECIAL PROVISIONS, HAZARDOUS 
MATERIALS COMMUNICATIONS, EMERGENCY RESPONSE INFORMATION, AND 
TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

    7. The authority citation for Part 172 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5101-5127; 49 CFR 1.53.

    8. In Sec. 172.101, in the Table in paragraph (g), the entries for 
label code 6.1 (I) \2\ and 6.1 (II) \2\ are removed and the following 
entries are added in their place:


Sec. 172.101  Purpose and use of hazardous materials table.

* * * * *
    (g) * * *

                        Label Substitution Table                        
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                Label code                           Label name         
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                        
                  *        *        *        *        *                 
6.1 (I, Zone A and B inhalation hazard)     Poison Inhalation Hazard.   
 \2\.                                                                   
6.1 (I, other than Zone A and B) \2\......  Poison.                     
6.1 (II, other than Zone A and B) \2\.....  Poison.                     
                                                                        
                  *        *        *        *        *                 
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
    9. In Sec. 172.301, paragraph (a)(1) is revised, paragraphs (f)(1) 
and (f)(2) are removed, and a new paragraph (a)(3) is added to read as 
follows:


Sec. 172.301  General marking requirements for non-bulk packagings.

    (a) * * *
    (1) Except as otherwise provided by this subchapter, each person 
who offers for transportation a hazardous material

[[Page 1228]]

in a non-bulk packaging shall mark the package with the proper shipping 
name and identification number (preceded by ``UN'' or ``NA'', as 
appropriate) for the material as shown in the Sec. 172.101 Table. 
Identification numbers are not required on packages which contain only 
limited quantities, as defined in Sec. 171.8 of this subchapter, or 
ORM-D materials.
* * * * *
    (3) Large quantities of hazardous materials in non-bulk packages. A 
transport vehicle or freight container containing 4,000 kg (8,820 
pounds) or more aggregate gross weight of a hazardous material having a 
single identification number must be marked with the identification 
number designated for the hazardous material in Sec. 172.101 as 
specified in Sec. 172.332 or Sec. 172.336. This provision does not 
apply to ORM-D materials or limited quantities of hazardous materials.
* * * * *
    10. In Sec. 172.302, paragraph (g) is added to read as follows:


Sec. 172.302  General marking requirements for bulk packagings.

* * * * *
    (g) A rail car, freight container, truck body or trailer in which 
the lading has been fumigated with any hazardous material, or is 
undergoing fumigation, must be marked as specified in Sec. 173.9 of 
this subchapter.
    11. In Sec. 172.313, paragraph (a) is revised and paragraph (c) is 
added to read as follows:


Sec. 172.313  Poisonous hazardous materials.

    (a) For materials poisonous by inhalation (see Sec. 171.8 of this 
subchapter), the package shall be marked ``Inhalation Hazard'' in 
association with the required labels or placards, as appropriate, or 
shipping name when required. The ``Inhalation Hazard'' marking is not 
required provided the package is already labeled as prescribed in 
Sec. 172.429, or placarded as prescribed in Sec. 172.555. (See 
Sec. 172.302(b) of this subpart for size of markings on bulk packages.) 
Bulk packages must be marked on two opposing sides.
* * * * *
    (c) A transport vehicle or freight container loaded with more than 
1,000 kg (2,205 pounds) aggregate gross weight of packages containing a 
material poisonous by inhalation shall be marked as required by 
Sec. 172.332 with the identification number specified for the material, 
in the Sec. 172.101 Table, on each side and each end of the transport 
vehicle or freight container.
    12. In Sec. 172.328, paragraph (a)(3) is added to read as follows:


Sec. 172.328  Cargo tanks.

    (a) * * *
    (3) For a cargo tank transported on or in a transport vehicle or 
freight container, if the identification number marking on the cargo 
tank required by Sec. 172.302(a) is not visible, the transport vehicle 
or freight container must be marked as required by Sec. 172.332 on each 
side and each end with the identification number specified for the 
material in the Sec. 172.101 Table.
* * * * *
    13. In Sec. 172.331, paragraph (c) is added to read as follows:


Sec. 172.331  Bulk packagings other than portable tanks, cargo tanks, 
tank cars and multi-unit tank car tanks.

* * * * *
    (c) For a bulk packaging contained in or on a transport vehicle or 
freight container, if the identification number marking on the bulk 
packaging (e.g., an IBC) required by Sec. 172.302(a) is not visible, 
the transport vehicle or freight container must be marked as required 
by Sec. 172.332 on each side and each end with the identification 
number specified for the material in the Sec. 172.101 Table.
    14. In Sec. 172.332, paragraph (a) is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 172.332  Identification number markings.

    (a) General. When required by Secs. 172.301, 172.302, 172.313, 
172.326, 172.328, 172.330, or 172.331 of this subpart, identification 
numbers must be displayed on orange panels or placards as specified in 
this section or, when appropriate, on plain white square-on-point 
configurations as prescribed in Sec. 172.336(b).
* * * * *
    15. In Sec. 172.400, the table of label designations in paragraph 
(b) is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 172.400  General labeling requirements.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                Label   
                                                              design or 
     Hazard class or division             Label name           section  
                                                              reference 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.1..............................  EXPLOSIVES 1.1..........      172.411
1.2..............................  EXPLOSIVES 1.2..........      172.411
1.3..............................  EXPLOSIVES 1.3..........      172.411
1.4..............................  EXPLOSIVES 1.4..........      172.411
1.5..............................  EXPLOSIVES 1.5..........      172.411
1.6..............................  EXPLOSIVES 1.6..........      172.411
2.1..............................  FLAMMABLE GAS...........      172.417
2.2..............................  NONFLAMMABLE GAS........      172.415
2.3..............................  POISON GAS..............      172.416
3 (flammable liquid) Combustible   FLAMMABLE LIQUID (none).      172.419
 liquid.                                                                
4.1..............................  FLAMMABLE SOLID.........      172.420
4.2..............................  SPONTANEOUSLY                 172.422
                                    COMBUSTIBLE.                        
4.3..............................  DANGEROUS WHEN WET......      172.423
5.1..............................  OXIDIZER................      172.426
5.2..............................  ORGANIC PEROXIDE........      172.427
6.1 (Packing Group I, Zone A and   POISON INHALATION HAZARD      172.429
 B).                                                                    
6.1 (Packing Groups I and II,      POISON..................      172.430
 other than inhalation hazard).                                         
6.1 (Packing Group III)..........  KEEP AWAY FROM FOOD.....      172.431
6.2..............................  INFECTIOUS SUBSTANCE \1\      172.432
7 (see Sec.  172.403)............  RADIOACTIVE WHITE-I.....      172.436
7................................  RADIOACTIVE YELLOW-II...      172.438
7................................  RADIOACTIVE YELLOW-III..      172.440
7 (empty packages, see Sec.        EMPTY...................      172.450
 173.427).                                                              
8................................  CORROSIVE...............      172.442

[[Page 1229]]

                                                                        
9................................  CLASS 9.................     172.446 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ The ETIOLOGIC AGENT label specified in regulations of the Department
  of Health and Human Services at 42 CFR 72.3 may apply to packages of  
  infectious substances.                                                

    16. Section 172.416 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 172.416  POISON GAS label.

    (a) Except for size and color, the POISON GAS label must be as 
follows:

BILLING CODE 4910-60-P

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR08JA97.000


      
    (b) In addition to complying with Sec. 172.407, the background on 
the POISON GAS label and the symbol must be white. The background of 
the upper diamond must be black and the lower point of the upper 
diamond must be 14 mm (0.54 inches) above the horizontal center line.
    17. Section 172.429 is added to read as follows:


Sec. 172.429  POISON INHALATION HAZARD label.

    (a) Except for size and color, the POISON INHALATION HAZARD label 
must be as follows:


[[Page 1230]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR08JA97.001



BILLING CODE 4910-60-C

    (b) In addition to complying with Sec. 172.407, the background on 
the POISON INHALATION HAZARD label and the symbol must be white. The 
background of the upper diamond must be black and the lower point of 
the upper diamond must be 14 mm (0.54 inches) above the horizontal 
center line.
    18. In Sec. 172.502, paragraph (a)(2) is revised and paragraph 
(b)(3) is added to read as follows:


Sec. 172.502  Prohibited and permissive placarding.

    (a) * * *
    (2) Any sign, advertisement, slogan (such as ``Drive Safely''), or 
device that, by its color, design, shape or content, could be confused 
with any placard prescribed in this subpart.
    (b) * * *
    (3) The restrictions in paragraph (a)(2) of this section do not 
apply until October 1, 2001 to a safety sign or safety slogan (e.g., 
``Drive Safely'' or ``Drive Carefully''), which was permanently marked, 
on or before October 1, 1996, on a transport vehicle, bulk packaging, 
or freight container.
* * * * *
    19. In Sec. 172.504, paragraph (f)(11) is added, and paragraphs (b) 
and (e) are revised to read as follows:


Sec. 172.504  General placarding requirements.

* * * * *
    (b) DANGEROUS placard. A freight container, unit load device, 
transport vehicle, or rail car which contains non-bulk packages with 
two or more categories of hazardous materials that require different 
placards specified in Table 2 of paragraph (e) of this section may be 
placarded with a DANGEROUS placard instead of the separate placarding 
specified for each of the materials in Table 2 of paragraph (e) of this 
section. However, when 1,000 kg (2,205 pounds) aggregate gross weight 
or more of one category of material is loaded therein at one loading 
facility on a freight container, unit load device, transport vehicle, 
or rail car, the placard specified in Table 2 of paragraph (e) of this 
section for that category must be applied.
* * * * *
    (e) Placarding tables. Placards are specified for hazardous 
materials in accordance with the following tables:

                                 Table 1                                
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Placard  
   Category of material (Hazard                                 design  
   class or division number and          Placard name          section  
    additional description, as                                reference 
           appropriate)                                        (Sec.  ) 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.1..............................  EXPLOSIVES 1.1..........      172.522
1.2..............................  EXPLOSIVES 1.2..........      172.522
1.3..............................  EXPLOSIVES 1.3..........      172.522
2.3..............................  POISON GAS..............      172.540
4.3..............................  DANGEROUS WHEN WET......      172.548
5.2 (Organic peroxide, Type B,     ORGANIC PEROXIDE........      172.552
 liquid or solid, temperature                                           
 controlled).                                                           
6.1 (PG I, inhalation hazard,      POISON INHALATION HAZARD      172.555
 Zone A and B).                                                         
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 1231]]


                           Table 1--Continued                           
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Placard  
   Category of material (Hazard                                 design  
   class or division number and          Placard name          section  
    additional description, as                                reference 
           appropriate)                                        (Sec.  ) 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
7 (Radioactive Yellow III label    RADIOACTIVE \1\.........     172.556 
 only).                                                                 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ RADIOACTIVE placard also required for exclusive use shipments of low
  specific activity material in accordance with Sec.  173.425 (b) or (c)
  of this subchapter.                                                   


                                 Table 2                                
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Placard  
   Category of material (Hazard                                 design  
   class or division number and          Placard name          section  
    additional description, as                                reference 
           appropriate)                                        (Sec.  ) 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.4..............................  EXPLOSIVES 1.4..........      172.523
1.5..............................  EXPLOSIVES 1.5..........      172.524
1.6..............................  EXPLOSIVES 1.6..........      172.525
2.1..............................  FLAMMABLE GAS...........      172.532
2.2..............................  NON-FLAMMABLE GAS.......      172.528
3................................  FLAMMABLE...............      172.542
Combustible liquid...............  COMBUSTIBLE.............      172.544
4.1..............................  FLAMMABLE SOLID.........      172.546
4.2..............................  SPONTANEOUSLY                 172.547
                                    COMBUSTIBLE.                        
5.1..............................  OXIDIZER................      172.550
5.2 (Other than organic peroxide,  ORGANIC PEROXIDE........      172.552
 Type B, liquid or solid,                                               
 temperature controlled).                                               
6.1 (PG I or II, other than PG I   POISON..................      172.554
 inhalation hazard).                                                    
6.1 (PG III).....................  KEEP AWAY FROM FOOD.....      172.553
6.2..............................  (None)..................  ...........
8................................  CORROSIVE...............      172.558
9................................  CLASS 9.................      172.560
ORM-D............................  (None)..................  ...........
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (f) * * *
    (11) For domestic transportation, a POISON placard is not required 
on a transport vehicle or freight container required to display a 
POISON INHALATION HAZARD or POISON GAS placard.
* * * * *
    20. In Sec. 172.505, paragraph (a) is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 172.505  Placarding for subsidiary hazards.

    (a) Each transport vehicle, freight container, portable tank, unit 
load device, or rail car that contains a poisonous material subject to 
the ``Poison Inhalation Hazard'' shipping description of 
Sec. 172.203(m)(3) must be placarded with a POISON INHALATION HAZARD or 
POISON GAS placard, as appropriate, on each side and each end, in 
addition to any other placard required for that material in 
Sec. 172.504. Duplication of the POISON INHALATION HAZARD or POISON GAS 
placard is not required.
* * * * *


Sec. 172.510  [Amended]

    21. In Sec. 172.510, the following changes are made:
    a. Paragraph (b) is removed.
    b. Paragraph (c) is redesignated as paragraph (b), and the phrase 
``POISON GAS or POISON'' is replaced with the phrase ``POISON GAS or 
POISON INHALATION HAZARD.''
    22. Section 172.540 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 172.540  POISON GAS placard.

    (a) Except for size and color, the POISON GAS placard must be as 
follows:

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[[Page 1232]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR08JA97.002




[[Page 1233]]


    (b) In addition to complying with Sec. 172.519, the background on 
the POISON GAS placard and the symbol must be white. The background of 
the upper diamond must be black and the lower point of the upper 
diamond must be 38 mm (1\1/2\ inches) above the horizontal center line. 
The text, class number, and inner border must be black.
    23. Section 172.555 is added to read as follows:


Sec. 172.555  POISON INHALATION HAZARD placard.

    (a) Except for size and color, the POISON INHALATION HAZARD placard 
must be as follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR08JA97.003


BILLING CODE 4910-60-C

[[Page 1234]]

    (b) In addition to complying with Sec. 172.519, the background on 
the POISON INHALATION HAZARD placard and the symbol must be white. The 
background of the upper diamond must be black and the lower point of 
the upper diamond must be 38 mm (1\1/2\ inches) above the horizontal 
center line. The text, class number, and inner border must be black.
    24. In Sec. 172.602, paragraph (c)(1) is revised to read as 
follows:


Sec. 172.602  Emergency response information.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (1) Carriers. Each carrier who transports a hazardous material 
shall maintain the information specified in paragraph (a) of this 
section and Sec. 172.606 of this part in the same manner as prescribed 
for shipping papers, except that the information must be maintained in 
the same manner aboard aircraft as the notification of pilot-in-
command, and aboard vessels in the same manner as the dangerous cargo 
manifest. This information must be immediately accessible to train crew 
personnel, drivers of motor vehicles, flight crew members, and bridge 
personnel on vessels for use in the event of incidents involving 
hazardous materials.
* * * * *
    25. Section 172.606 is added to read as follows:


Sec. 172.606  Carrier information contact.

    Each carrier who transports or accepts for transportation a 
hazardous material for which a shipping paper is required--
    (a) Shall instruct the operator of a motor vehicle, train, 
aircraft, or vessel to contact the carrier (e.g., by telephone or 
mobile radio) in the event of an incident involving the hazardous 
material.
    (b) For transportation by highway, if a transport vehicle, (e.g., a 
semi-trailer or freight container-on-chassis) contains hazardous 
material for which a shipping paper is required and the vehicle is 
separated from its motive power and parked at a location other than a 
consignee's, consignor's, or carrier's facility, the carrier shall--
    (1) Comply with the emergency response information requirements for 
facility operators specified in Sec. 172.602(c)(2);
    (2) Mark the transport vehicle with the telephone number of the 
motor carrier on the front of the transport vehicle near the brake hose 
and electrical connections; or
    (3) Have the shipping paper and emergency response information 
readily available on the transport vehicle.

PART 173--SHIPPERS--GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR SHIPMENTS AND 
PACKAGINGS

    26. The authority citation for part 173 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5101-5127; 49 CFR 1.53.

    27. Section 173.9 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 173.9  Transport vehicles or freight containers containing lading 
which has been fumigated.

    (a) For the purpose of this section, not including 49 CFR part 387, 
a rail car, freight container, truck body, or trailer in which the 
lading has been fumigated with any material, or is undergoing 
fumigation, is a package containing a hazardous material, unless the 
transport vehicle or freight container has been sufficiently aerated so 
that it does not pose an unreasonable risk to health and safety.
    (b) No person may offer for transportation or transport a rail car, 
freight container, truck body, or trailer in which the lading has been 
fumigated or treated with any material, or is undergoing fumigation, 
unless the FUMIGANT marking specified in paragraph (c) of this section 
is prominently displayed so that it can be seen by any person 
attempting to enter the interior of the transport vehicle or freight 
container. For domestic transportation, a hazard warning label 
authorized by EPA under 40 CFR part 156 may be used as an alternative 
to the FUMIGANT marking.
    (c) FUMIGANT marking. (1) The FUMIGANT marking must consist of red 
letters on a white background that is at least 30 cm (11.8 inches) wide 
and at least 25 cm (9.8 inches) high. Except for size and color, the 
FUMIGANT marking must be as follows:

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[[Page 1235]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR08JA97.004



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[[Page 1236]]

    (2) The ``*'' shall be replaced with the technical name of the 
fumigant.
    (d) No person may affix or display on a rail car, freight 
container, truck body, or trailer (a package) the FUMIGANT marking 
specified in paragraph (c) of this section, unless the lading has been 
fumigated or is undergoing fumigation.
    (e) The FUMIGANT marking required by paragraph (b) of this section 
must remain on the rail car, freight container, truck body, or trailer 
until:
    (1) The fumigated lading is unloaded; and
    (2) The transport vehicle or freight container has undergone 
sufficient aeration to assure that it does not pose an unreasonable 
risk to health and safety.
    (f) For international shipments, transport documents must indicate 
the date of fumigation, type and amount of fumigant used, and 
instructions for disposal of any residual fumigant, including 
fumigation devices.
    (g) Any person subject to the requirements of this section, solely 
due to the fumigated lading, must be informed of the requirements of 
this section and the safety precautions necessary to protect themselves 
and others in the event of an incident or accident involving the 
fumigated lading.
    (h) Any person who offers for transportation or transports a rail 
car, freight container, truck body or trailer that is subject to this 
subchapter solely because of the hazardous materials designation 
specified in paragraph (a) of this section is not subject to any other 
requirements of this subchapter.
    28. In Sec. 173.29, paragraph (b)(1) is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 173.29 Empty packagings.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (1) Any hazardous material shipping name and identification number 
markings, any hazard warning labels or placards, and any other markings 
indicating that the material is hazardous (e.g., RQ, INHALATION HAZARD) 
are removed, obliterated, or securely covered in transportation. This 
provision does not apply to transportation in a transport vehicle or a 
freight container if the packaging is not visible in transportation and 
the packaging is loaded by the shipper and unloaded by the shipper or 
consignee;
* * * * *

PART 174--CARRIAGE BY RAIL

    29. The authority citation for part 174 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5101-5127; 49 CFR 1.53.

    30. Section 174.26 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 174.26  Notice to train crews of placarded cars.

    (a) The train crew must have a document that reflects the current 
position in the train of each rail car containing a hazardous material. 
The train crew must update the document to indicate changes in the 
placement of a rail car within the train. For example, the train crew 
may update the document by handwriting on it or by appending or 
attaching another document to it.
    (b) A member of the crew of a train transporting a hazardous 
material must have a copy of a document for the hazardous material 
being transported showing the information required by part 172 of this 
subchapter.
    31. In Sec. 174.680, paragraph (a) is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 174.680  Division 6.1 (poisonous) materials with foodstuffs.

    (a) A carrier may not transport any package bearing a POISON or 
POISON INHALATION HAZARD label in the same car with any material marked 
as or known to be a foodstuff, feed, or any other edible material 
intended for consumption by humans or animals.
* * * * *

PART 175--CARRIAGE BY AIRCRAFT

    32. The authority citation for part 175 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5101-5127; 49 CFR 1.53.

    33. Section 175.630 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 175.630  Special requirements for Division 6.1 (poisonous) 
material and Division 6.2 (infectious substance) material.

    (a) A hazardous material bearing a POISON, POISON INHALATION 
HAZARD, KEEP AWAY FROM FOOD, or INFECTIOUS SUBSTANCE label may not be 
carried in the same compartment of an aircraft with material which is 
marked as or known to be a foodstuff, feed, or any other edible 
material intended for consumption by humans or animals unless either 
the Division 6.1 (poisonous) material or material in Division 6.2 
(infectious substance) and the foodstuff, feed, or other edible 
material are loaded in separate unit load devices which, when stowed on 
the aircraft, are not adjacent to each other, or the Division 6.1 
(poisonous) material or material in Division 6.2 (infectious substance) 
are loaded in one closed unit load device and the foodstuff, feed or 
other material is loaded in another closed unit load device.
    (b) No person may operate an aircraft that has been used to 
transport any package bearing a POISON or POISON INHALATION HAZARD 
label unless, upon removal of such package, the area in the aircraft in 
which it was carried is visually inspected for evidence of leakage, 
spillage, or other contamination. All contamination discovered must be 
either isolated or removed from the aircraft. The operation of an 
aircraft contaminated with such Division 6.1 (poisonous) materials is 
considered to be the carriage of poisonous materials under paragraph 
(a) of this section.

PART 176--CARRIAGE BY VESSEL

    34. The authority citation for part 176 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5101-5127; 49 CFR 1.53.

    35. In Sec. 176.600, paragraph (a) is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 176.600  General stowage requirement.

    (a) Each package required to have a POISON GAS, POISON INHALATION 
HAZARD, or POISON label thereon being transported on a vessel must be 
stowed clear of living quarters and any ventilation ducts serving 
living quarters and separate from foodstuffs.
* * * * *

PART 177--CARRIAGE BY PUBLIC HIGHWAY

    36. The authority citation for part 177 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 5101-5127, 49 CFR 1.53.

    37. In Sec. 177.841, paragraph (e) introductory text is republished 
and paragraphs (e)(1) and (e)(2) are revised to read as follows:


Sec. 177.841  Division 6.1 (poisonous) and Division 2.3 (poisonous gas) 
materials.

* * * * *
    (e) A motor carrier may not transport a package:
    (1) Bearing or required to bear a POISON or POISON INHALATION 
HAZARD label in the same motor vehicle with material that is marked as 
or known to be a foodstuffs, feed or edible material intended for 
consumption by humans or animals unless the poisonous material is 
packaged in accordance with this subchapter and is:
    (i) Overpacked in a metal drum as specified in Sec. 173.25(c) of 
this subchapter; or
    (ii) Loaded into a closed unit load device and the foodstuffs, 
feed, or other

[[Page 1237]]

edible material are loaded into another closed unit load device;
    (2) Bearing or required to bear a POISON, POISON GAS or POISON 
INHALATION HAZARD label in the driver's compartment (including a 
sleeper berth) of a motor vehicle; or
* * * * *
    Issued in Washington, DC on December 30, 1996, under authority 
delegated in 49 CFR Part 1.
Kelley S. Coyner,
Deputy Administrator, Research and Special Programs Administration.
[FR Doc. 97-189 Filed 1-7-97; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-60-P