DOT Hazmat Inspections Continue Under Shutdown

Hazmat safety inspections are continuing through the current partial government shutdown. Despite a lapse in funding, both PHMSA and FAA staff remain on the job to inspect shipping facilities, carriers, cylinder re-conditioners, and packaging testers as the shutdown stretches on.

According to the Department of Transportation’s “shutdown plan,” approximately 27,000 of FAA’s 45,000 personnel remain at work, while about half of PHMSA’s 563 personnel are working through the shutdown. In addition, hazardous materials safety inspectors will be “recalled over time to maintain the safety of the system and/or respond to incidents,” according to the plan.

While PHMSA and FAA will continue to perform critical hazmat safety responsibilities—inspections, incident investigations, and approvals and permits (in emergencies)—certain DOT hazmat programs have been put on hold until the shutdown ends.

The following DOT hazmat-related activities are on hold until an agreement to appropriate funds has been reached:

• Hazardous materials engineering and research
• Hazardous materials standards and rulemakings
• Hazardous materials program development
• Hazardous materials training, outreach, and grants 

See the full DOT shutdown plan here.

2019 Hazmat Training: Simplify 49 CFR Compliance

Develop a step-by-step approach to keep hazardous materials shipments moving safely and on-time. At this two-day workshop, develop a comprehensive understanding of what’s required for hazmat shippers.

Philadelphia January 22—23
Baltimore January 28—29
Orlando February 5—6
Atlanta February 11—12
Charlotte February 19—20
Nashville February 25—26

Reserve your seat now or train online when you want, where you want.
 

Tags: dangerous goods, FAA, hazmat inspections, hazmat shipping, PHMSA