PHMSA shortens special hazmat permit processing time

A final rule “streamlines” the hazardous materials special permits and approval process by including new procedures for evaluating applications the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration said Thursday.    The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration on Thursday released a final rule that “streamlines” the hazardous materials special permits and approvals application process by including new procedures for evaluating applications into the hazardous materials regulations. 
   By taking this action, PHMSA said it “fulfills requirements” in the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) by making the application review process “more transparent to our stakeholders.”
   In particular, the rulemaking provides clarity on the application requirements for obtaining a hazmat special permit, includes an online application process, and helps ensure completeness of submitted applications, PHMSA said. 
   “These changes are consistent with PHMSA’s agency-wide initiative to identify opportunities to modernize, clarify and reduce burdens associated with our regulations while continuing to raise the bar on safety,” said PHMSA Administrator Marie Therese Dominguez in a statement.
   Special permits provide alternative requirements — or a variance — to the requirements in the federal hazmat regulations to ensure safety when transporting hazmat. “Special permits also provide a mechanism for testing new technologies, promoting increased transportation efficiency and productivity, and improving global competitiveness,” PHMSA said.
   The agency estimates that nearly 1 million shipments of hazmat move daily by land, sea and air transport. 
   The final rule may be viewed here.