Ask X3What does 49 CFR 177.842 (Class 7 (radioactive) material) require?
Generated guidance. Confirm the source and its applicability before you act. How we check sources.
Short answer
49 CFR 177.842 requires that the number of packages of Class 7 (radioactive) materials in any transport vehicle or storage location be limited so that the total transport index number does not exceed 50. It also sets minimum separation distances between packages of Class 7 (radioactive) materials and areas that may be occupied by people or animals, or where undeveloped film is stored.
The rule says
"The number of packages of Class 7 (radioactive) materials in any transport vehicle or in any single group in any storage location must be limited so that the total transport index number does not exceed 50." (49 CFR 177.842(a))
"Packages of Class 7 (radioactive) material bearing RADIOACTIVE YELLOW-II or RADIOACTIVE YELLOW-III labels may not be placed in a transport vehicle, storage location or in any other place closer than the distances shown in the following table to any area which may be continuously occupied by any passenger, employee, or animal, nor closer than the distances shown in the table to any package containing undeveloped film (if so marked)" (49 CFR 177.842(b))
In plain English
By limiting the total transport index number to 50, the rule reduces the potential radiation exposure to people and the environment. The minimum separation distances are also crucial in preventing accidental exposure to radiation. For example, if a package of radioactive material is being transported in a vehicle, it must be kept at a safe distance from the driver and any passengers to prevent radiation exposure. Similarly, if radioactive materials are being stored, they must be kept away from areas where people work or live.
What to do
- Ensure that the total transport index number of Class 7 (radioactive) materials in any transport vehicle or storage location does not exceed 50.
- Maintain minimum separation distances between packages of Class 7 (radioactive) materials and areas that may be occupied by people or animals, or where undeveloped film is stored.
- Use the table provided in 49 CFR 177.842(b) to determine the minimum separation distances based on the total transport index number and the duration of transit.
- Train personnel on the handling and storage of Class 7 (radioactive) materials to ensure compliance with the regulation.