Ask X3What does 49 CFR 171.9 (Rules of construction) require?
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Short answer
49 CFR 171.9 requires that words imparting the singular include the plural, words imparting the plural include the singular, and words imparting the masculine gender include the feminine. It also defines the meaning of "shall", "must", "should", "may", and "includes" in the subchapter.
The rule says
Words imparting the singular include the plural; Words imparting the plural include the singular; and Words imparting the masculine gender include the feminine — 49 CFR 171.9(a).
Shall is used in an imperative sense; Must is used in an imperative sense; Should is used in a recommendatory sense; May is used in a permissive sense to state authority or permission to do the act described — 49 CFR 171.9(b).
"Includes is used as a word of inclusion not limitation." (49 CFR 171.9(b))
In plain English
This rule is about how to interpret the language used in the subchapter. It's saying that when it uses a singular word, it also means the plural, and vice versa. It's also defining what certain words mean, like "shall" and "may, to avoid confusion. In practice, this means that if a regulation says .a person", it also means "people", and if it says "shall", it means that something is required.
What to do
- Read the regulations carefully, considering the definitions of words like "shall" and "may".
- Apply the rules of construction when interpreting the regulations.
- Ensure that all personnel understand the meanings of these words to avoid confusion.
- Review the regulations regularly to stay up-to-date with any changes.