Federal Register #2026-21922

PHMSA proposed rule to harmonize hazardous-material transportation regulations with international standards

PHMSA is proposing changes to U.S. hazardous-material transport rules to align them with international requirements. - Government buyer: U.S. Department of Transportation, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). - Proposed changes: Update hazardous-material classifications and shipping names, packaging authorizations, battery transport rules, aircraft quantity limits, vessel stowage, and vehicle-safety provisions. - Notable requirements: Add distinct cargo-transport-unit entries for lithium-metal and sodium-ion batteries, establish provisions for hybrid batteries, and introduce vessel vehicle-safety checks. - Standards referenced: United Nations Model Regulations, ICAO instructions, the IMDG Code, Transport Canada requirements, and ISO standards. - Procurement status: This is a proposed rulemaking, not a procurement or award. No products, commercial vendors, or quantities are requested; PHMSA anticipates net annualized cost savings.

Description

PHMSA proposes to update the Hazardous Materials Regulations to adopt certain international regulations and standards. Proposed changes address proper shipping names, hazard classes, packing groups, special provisions, packaging authorizations, air transport quantity limitations, and vessel stowage requirements. The amendments are intended to align U.S. regulations with the latest international standards, reduce costs for U.S. entities and individuals, and lower regulatory costs to the U.S. economy. Comments are due December 28, 2026.

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