What does 49 CFR 180.403 (Definitions) require?

Short answer

49 CFR 180.403 requires specific definitions for terms related to cargo tank maintenance and inspection, including "corroded or abraded", "corrosive to the tank or valve", "delivery hose assembly", "modification", "owner", "piping system", "rebarrelling", "repair", "replacement of a barrel", and "stretching".

The rule says

"Corroded or abraded means any visible reduction in the material thickness of the cargo tank wall or valve due to pitting, flaking, gouging, or chemical reaction to the material surface that effects the safety or serviceability of the cargo tank." (49 CFR 180.403)

"Modification means any change to the original design and construction of a cargo tank or a cargo tank motor vehicle that affects its structural integrity or lading retention capability..." (49 CFR 180.403)

"Repair means any welding on a cargo tank wall done to return a cargo tank or a cargo tank motor vehicle to its original design and construction specification, or to a condition prescribed for a later equivalent specification in effect at the time of the repair." (49 CFR 180.403)

In plain English

These definitions are crucial for ensuring the safe maintenance and inspection of cargo tanks. Similarly, the definition of "modification helps to identify changes that could affect the tank's structural integrity, while the definition of .repair" clarifies what types of welding are allowed to restore a tank to its original condition. Inspectors will check for compliance with these definitions during audits, and non-compliance can result in fines and other penalties.

What to do

• Review the definitions in 49 CFR 180.403 to ensure understanding of key terms related to cargo tank maintenance and inspection.
• Verify that all cargo tank maintenance and inspection procedures align with these definitions.
• Train personnel on the importance of adhering to these definitions to ensure compliance and safety.