Search

DOT to Reconsider LNG by Rail Rule

Posted on 5/17/2021 by Roseanne Bottone and Roger Marks

US DOT will reconsider a Final Rule promulgated in July 2020 that authorized the transport of liquefied natural gas (LNG)—also known as “Methane, refrigerated liquid”—in rail tank cars.  

A pair of Executive Orders* issued on day one of the Biden Administration direct regulatory agencies to reconsider existing regulations and other agency actions to ensure they are consistent with the policy goals and objectives set forth in the EOs.

The White House Fact Sheet: List of Agency Actions for Review indicates that DOT was explicitly directed to solicit comments regarding the LNG-by-rail Final Rule. It is the only hazardous materials transportation rulemaking on the list.

DOT will accept comments until June 4, 2021 on existing transportation and hazardous materials regulations, including the LNG-by-rail Final Rule, and other agency actions for consideration. 

Stakeholders and citizens can submit comments via the Federal eRulemaking Portal at regulations.gov, by mail, or by fax (202-493-2251). Comments should reference docket number DOT-OST-2021-0036.

More details about how to submit comments can be found in the May 5 Federal Register.

PHMSA's LNG by Rail Final Rule 

The Final Rule undergoing review authorized the transportation of LNG by rail in DOT-113C120W specification rail tank cars with enhanced outer tank requirements, subject to all applicable requirements and certain additional operational controls.

Before this Final Rule took effect, “Methane, refrigerated liquid” was not authorized for transport in rail cars because of safety concerns.

Read more about the LNG Final Rule.

*View the Executive Orders:
Protecting Public Health and the Environment… (Jan. 20, 2021)
Revocation of Certain Executive Orders Concerning Federal Regulation (Jan. 20, 2021)

Brush Up on PHMSA Hazmat Rail Rules

The Shipping Hazmat by Ground–Additional Rail Requirements online course will expand on your 49 CFR highway shipping expertise and introduce the latest unique rules for rail shipments. The course provides critical function-specific training for hazmat employees who prepare or offer hazmat shipments by rail. 
 
Or maintain your 49 CFR, IATA DGR, and IMDG Code hazmat certifications with Lion's other reliable, interactive 300-level online hazmat courses: 

Hazmat Ground Shipper Certification (DOT)
Hazmat Air Shipper Certification (IATA)
Hazmat Vessel Shipper Certification (IMDG)
 

Tags: hazmat by rail, hazmat shipping, LNG, methane, refrigerated liquid, UN 1972

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

I attended training from another provider and learned absolutely nothing. Lion is much better. Hands down.

Nicole Eby

Environmental Specialist

Lion was very responsive to my initial questions and the website was user friendly.

Michael Britt

Supply Chain Director

I chose Lion's online webinar because it is simple, effective, and easily accessible.

Jeremy Bost

Environmental Health & Safety Technician

Lion's information is very thorough and accurate. Presenter was very good.

Melissa Little

Regulatory Manager

The course was very well structured and covered the material in a clear, concise manner.

Ian Martinez

Hazmat Shipping Professional

Convenient; I can train when I want, where I want.

Barry Cook

Hazmat Shipping Professional

I think LION does an excellent job of any training they do. Materials provided are very useful to my day-to-day work activities.

Pamela Embody

EHS Specialist

I was recently offered an opportunity to take my training through another company, but I politely declined. I only attend Lion Technology workshops.

Stephanie Gilliam

Material Production/Logistics Manager

Excellent. I learned more in two days with Lion than at a 5-day program I took with another provider.

Francisco Gallardo

HES Technician

The instructor kept the class engaged and made learning fun. There was a lot of information to cover but time flew by. I will definitely use Lion in the future!

Chelsea Minguela

Hazmat Shipping Professional

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

Knowing why TSDFs reject loads of hazardous waste—and the exact steps to follow if it happens—can reduce your anxiety and uncertainty about rejection.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.