Federal Register #2026-15816

PHMSA Final Rule: Adoption of DOT Special Permits for Hazardous Materials Packaging and Cylinder Requalification

This final rule from the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), under the Department of Transportation, amends the Hazardous Materials Regulations to adopt DOT Special Permits 12412, 11646, and 14175. - Government Buyer: - Department of Transportation - Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or vendors are named in this regulatory action - Products/Services Requested: - Drums for Class 3, Division 6.1, Class 8, and Class 9 hazardous materials - Authorized for discharge from motor vehicles under strict safety conditions - Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) and DOT Specification 57 Portable Tanks - For liquids (excluding certain hazardous classes), with requirements for private/contract vehicle use, specific IBC designs, pressure relief devices, and attended unloading - DOT Specification 3A and 3AA Cylinder Bundles - Now authorized for a 10-year requalification interval using ultrasonic examination or hydrostatic testing with visual inspection - Unique or Notable Requirements: - Discharge of hazardous materials from packaging without removal from vehicles is permitted under defined safety protocols - No hoses may be attached during transport, and no manifolding is allowed - Unloading must be attended, and safety inspections are required - The requalification period for certain gas cylinders is extended from 5 to 10 years, reducing regulatory burden - These changes eliminate the need for special permit renewals and reduce paperwork for regulated entities - No procurement of products or services is taking place; this is a regulatory update affecting compliance and operational procedures

Description

This final rule amends the Hazardous Materials Regulations to adopt specific Department of Transportation special permits 12412 and 11646. The amendments provide greater flexibility and reduce paperwork burdens while maintaining safety standards. The rule includes provisions for bonding and grounding containers during transfer of Class 3 materials and safety precautions for transporting certain hazardous materials together. The rule is effective September 3, 2026.

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