Two Department of Transportation agencies are seeking comments on the feasibility of security requirements for motor carriers that transport hazardous materials, according to information published July 16, 2002, in the Federal Register. Many hazardous materials transported by motor carriers have the potential to be used as weapons of mass destruction, or in the manufacture of such weapons, according to the information.
The Research and Special Programs Administration (RSPA) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) are examining the need for the security requirements and are considering measures that include escorts, vehicle tracking and monitoring systems, emergency warning systems, remote shut-offs, direct short-range communications, and notification to state and local authorities.
The agencies want data about information and communications technology, effectiveness of different types of physical security measures, overall security of safe havens for temporary storage during transportation, and costs involved with implementing security measures. Also sought are related safety or productivity benefits that would help offset costs, measures or incentives to help promote technology development and adoption in conjunction with or separate from general regulatory requirements, and whether specific physical security measures should be limited to certain highly hazardous materials.
RSPA and FMCSA are particularly interested in hearing from shippers and carriers using some of these technologies and procedures. Comments should be submitted by Oct 15, 2002. To the extent possible, the agencies will consider late-filed comments as they consider further action.
Comments should be submitted to the Dockets Management System, US, Department of Transportation, Room PL 401, 400 Seventh St SW, Washington DC 20590-0001. They should identify Docket #FMCSA-02-11650 (HM-232A).