Ask X3What does 49 CFR 177.840 (Class 2 (gases) materials) require?
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Short answer
49 CFR 177.840 requires that cylinders containing Class 2 (gases) materials be loaded onto motor vehicles with essentially flat floors or platforms, or onto vehicles equipped with suitable racks for securing the cylinders. The regulation also outlines specific requirements for the transportation of Division 2.3 Hazard Zone A materials and other hazardous gases.
The rule says
"Cylinders containing Class 2 (gases) materials shall not be loaded onto any part of the floor or platform of any motor vehicle which is not essentially flat; cylinders containing Class 2 (gases) materials may be loaded onto any motor vehicle not having a floor or platform only if such motor vehicle be equipped with suitable racks having adequate means for securing such cylinders in place" (49 CFR 177.840(a)).
In plain English
Motor carriers must also comply with specific segregation and packaging requirements for certain types of hazardous gases, such as Division 2.3 Hazard Zone A materials.
What to do
- Ensure that motor vehicles used to transport Class 2 (gases) materials have essentially flat floors or platforms, or are equipped with suitable racks for securing cylinders.
- Comply with specific segregation and packaging requirements for hazardous gases, such as Division 2.3 Hazard Zone A materials.
- Verify that cylinders are properly secured and restrained during transport to prevent shifting or overturning.
- Ensure that motor carriers have a satisfactory safety rating as prescribed in 49 CFR part 385.