With federal mandates likely for lane departure, roll stability, and collision warning systems, as well as various technology-based security programs, now is the time for tank truck carriers to let their voices be heard on the subjects.
That was the message from Tom Moses of the Spill Center at the National Tank Truck Carriers Annual Conference May 18-20 in New York City.
“Look at the technology and research trends in order to influence potential regulatory action,” he said. “Participate in the research and development, and make sure systems and technology are properly evaluated.”
Federal organizations such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA) are involved in reviewing and testing technology applications designed to fight congestion and improve the safety and security of the nation's transportation system.
Moses noted that a TSA hazmat security pilot test is looking at seven different types of vehicle tracking devices. According to TSA information, some studies are looking at vehicle attendance, vehicle alarm systems, truck cab access controls, locking fifthwheel on tractors, and security route and stop areas. In a security incident, devices could be used to trigger an alert, shutdown a vehicle, and notify law enforcement officials.
RITA is involved in SafeTrip-21, a multi-application field test of safety and congestion-reducing technologies that will be launched at the 2008 Intelligent Transportation Systems World Congress in New York City November 16-20.
In addition, electronic manifests and video verification of loading and unloading procedures may eventually be required, Moses said.