What does 49 CFR 177.837 (Class 3 (flammable liquid) materials) require?

Short answer

49 CFR 177.837 requires specific safety procedures when loading or unloading Class 3 (flammable liquid) materials, including stopping the engine unless it's needed for a pump, bonding and grounding containers, and following specific protocols for cargo tanks. The rule also requires a qualified person to observe the cargo tank and receiving container during unloading operations.

The rule says

"Class 3 material may not be loaded into, or on, or unloaded from any cargo tank motor vehicle while the engine is running." (49 CFR 177.837(a))

"Either metallic bonds or ground conductors shall be provided for the neutralization of possible static charges prior to and during transfers of Class 3 (flammable liquid) materials between such containers." (49 CFR 177.837(b))

"When a cargo tank is loaded through an open filling hole, one end of a bond wire shall be connected to the stationary system piping or integrally connected steel framing, and the other end to the shell of the cargo tank to provide a continuous electrical connection." (49 CFR 177.837(c)(1))

In plain English

This includes stopping the engine when loading or unloading, unless it's necessary for operating a pump, and ensuring that containers are properly bonded and grounded to prevent static electricity ignitions. Additionally, cargo tanks must be loaded and unloaded in a way that maintains electrical continuity and prevents sparks. A qualified person must also monitor the cargo tank and receiving container during unloading operations to quickly respond to any potential issues.

What to do

• Stop the engine when loading or unloading Class 3 materials unless it's needed for a pump.
• Ensure containers are properly bonded and grounded before and during transfers.
• Follow specific protocols for loading and unloading cargo tanks to maintain electrical continuity.
• Assign a qualified person to observe the cargo tank and receiving container during unloading operations.