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Are vessel operators exempt from the hazardous materials regulations?

Scenario: Richard works as a deck hand for a cargo vessel operator and is loading hazardous materials onto the deck. He is loading paint and paint thinner, and the total weight of the materials he's loading is under 1,001 pounds. Richard knows that there are regulations in place for hazardous materials, but he believes that because there is less than 1,001 pounds, the rules don't apply.

Question: Is Richard exempt from the hazardous materials regulations?

Click below to see answers.

Are vessel operators exempt from the hazardous materials regulations?: Answer

Answer: No. The Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) apply to all modes of transportation, highway, rail, air, and vessel, when transporting regulated hazardous materials in commerce. Even private vessel operators transporting hazardous materials in commerce are not exempt, and would be subject to requirements including but not limited to placarding, shipping papers, training, etc.

The 1,001-pound exception refers to a placarding exception. The exception is found in 172.504(c), and says that if "hazardous materials covered by Table 2 of 172.504 are transported by highway...placards are not required on ... a transport vehicle or freight container which contains less than 454 kg (1,001 lbs.) aggregate gross weight of hazardous materials covered by Table 2 ..."