What does 49 CFR 171.15 (Immediate notice of certain hazardous materials incidents) require?

Short answer

49 CFR 171.15 requires immediate notice of certain hazardous materials incidents to the National Response Center within 12 hours, including specific information such as the name of the reporter, location of the incident, and extent of injury or damage. A written report on DOT Form F 5800.1 is also required within 30 days.

The rule says

"As soon as practical but no later than 12 hours after the occurrence of any incident described in paragraph (b) of this section, each person in physical possession of the hazardous material must provide notice by telephone to the National Response Center (NRC) on 800-424-8802 (toll free) or 202-267-2675 (toll call)." (49 CFR 171.15(a))

"A telephone report is required whenever any of the following occurs during the course of transportation in commerce (including loading, unloading, and temporary storage)" (49 CFR 171.15(b))

"Each notice must include the following information: (1) Name of reporter; (2) Name and address of person represented by reporter; (3) Phone number where reporter can be contacted; (4) Date, time, and location of incident; (5) The extent of injury, if any; (6) Class or division, proper shipping name, and quantity of hazardous materials involved, if such information is available; and (7) Type of incident and nature of hazardous material involvement and whether a continuing danger to life exists at the scene." (49 CFR 171.15(a))

In plain English

This regulation requires immediate reporting of hazardous materials incidents that meet certain criteria, such as fatalities, injuries, or significant damage. The report must be made to the National Response Center within 12 hours and include specific information about the incident. The regulation also requires a written report on DOT Form F 5800.1 within 30 days, which provides more detailed information about the incident.

What to do

• Identify the types of incidents that require immediate reporting under 49 CFR 171.15(b)
• Ensure that all personnel handling hazardous materials are aware of the reporting requirements and procedures
• Establish a system for tracking and reporting incidents, including maintaining records of reports made to the National Response Center
• Complete and submit the written report on DOT Form F 5800.1 within 30 days of discovery for all reportable incidents