New security rules for Hazmat hauling
The Research and Special Programs Administration issued a final rule establishing new requirements aimed at improving the security of hazardous materials transportation. The proposed rule was published in May 2002. Under the final rule, shippers and carriers of certain highly hazardous materials must develop and implement security plans. In addition, all shippers and carriers of hazardous materials must assure that their employee training includes a security component.
Under the rule, security awareness training is required during the first scheduled recurrent training after the rule’s effective date, March 25, 2003. All employees must have security awareness training by March 24, 2006. By Dec. 22, 2003, each hazmat employee of an entity required to have a security plan must be trained concerning the plan and its implementation.
By Sept. 25, 2003, shippers and carriers of certain hazardous materials must develop and implement a security plan. That plan must include an assessment of possible transportation security risks for shipments of the hazardous materials and appropriate measures to address those risks. The plan must address personnel security, unauthorized access and en route security.
For a copy of the final rule, which includes a list of materials covered by the security rules, visit this site and search Docket No. 12064.
Trucking receives $20 million for security
A funding bill signed into law by President Bush in April includes $20 million for trucking industry grants to fund the nationwide trucking security and safety initiative. The money will be used, among other things, to fund the Trucking Information Sharing And Analysis Center (Truck ISAC), which is operated by the American Trucking Associations in cooperation with 50 state trucking associations and 15 other national trucking organizations.
Working with the Department of Homeland Security, the Truck ISAC serves as an alert system, using the Internet and other communication channels to provide the trucking industry with incident, threat and vulnerability information.
The $6.71 billion supplemental appropriations act also includes $30 million for Operation Safe Commerce to enhance maritime and land security. Another $333 million goes to the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection for security at borders and maritime ports of entry.
Have an emergency plan?
Small Business Administration has urged small business owners to develop an emergency planning and recovery checklist to safeguard their businesses from potential emergencies, including terrorist attacks. SBA is offering information on business continuity and emergency planning on its website.
