Ask X3What does 49 CFR 173.37 (Hazardous Materials in Flexible Bulk Containers) require?
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According to 49 CFR 173.37, motor carriers and shippers using Flexible Bulk Containers for hazardous materials must follow these specific requirements:
* Authorization & Specifications: No one may offer or accept a hazardous material in a Flexible Bulk Container unless it is authorized by the subchapter and conforms to its specific design and regulation requirements (49 CFR 173.37).
* Capacity Limit: The container capacity cannot exceed 15 cubic meters (530 cubic feet).
* Inspection Before Filling and Reuse: The person filling the container must perform an external visual inspection to ensure:
* It is free from corrosion, contamination, cracks, cuts, or damage that would prevent it from passing its design type test.
* It is properly marked per § 178.1010. Missing, damaged, or unreadable markings must be restored.
* Structural components—specifically textile slings, load-bearing structure straps, body fabric, and lock device parts (metal and textile)—are examined and free from protrusions or damage.
* It is used within a maximum of two years from its date of manufacture.
* Rules During Transportation:
* No hazardous material may remain on the outside of the container.
* The container must be securely fastened to or contained within the transport unit.
* If using restraints like banding or straps, do not over-tighten them so that they damage or deform the container.
* The transport conveyance must have rigid sides and ends extending at least two-thirds the height of the container.
* No stacking is allowed for highway or rail transportation.
* They must not be transported in cargo transport units when offered for transport by vessel.
* If transported by barge, they must be stowed with no void spaces between them (or prevented from shifting if they don't fill the barge), and the stack height must not exceed 3 containers high.