On March 25, 2003, the Research and Special Project Administration (RSPA) of the DOT adopted a new security requirement for certain transporters of hazardous materials. The rule covers Facilities, Shippers, Trucks and Rail Cars that are involved in bulk (not pipeline) transportation of hazardous materials in a packaging having a capacity equal to or greater than3,500 gallons for liquids or gases or more than 468 cubic feet for solids, or ship any quantity of hazardous material that requires placarding.
There are two main components of the new rule: security plans and training. Security plans must be developed by September 25, 2003. The security plan must assess possible transportation security risks for shipments of hazardous materials and must contain appropriate measures to address the assessed risks. Effective December 22, 2003, each HAZMAT employee must be trained concerning the security plan and its implementation. Also, no later than March 24, 2006 all HAZMAT employees must receive comprehensive security training. In addition, the new rules require security training of HAZMAT employees within 90 days of employment and then every three years. Hazmat employees includes those involved with loading, handling, operating a vehicle for transport and also those who prepare hazardous materials for transportation.
RCP has developed a Security Protocol based on RSPA’s “Risk Management Framework for Hazardous Materials Transportation”. This protocol contains seven main elements that need to be completed to ensure an effective security program. If this comprehensive Security Protocol is something that you would like to explore, please contact our Vice President of Business Development, Dan Shelledy at dshelledy@your-rcp.com.