What does 49 CFR 180.409 (Minimum qualifications for inspectors and testers) require?

Short answer

49 CFR 180.409 requires that any person performing or witnessing inspections and tests on cargo tanks be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, be familiar with DOT-specification cargo tanks, and have the training and experience required to meet the definition of Registered Inspector.

The rule says

"Any person performing or witnessing the inspections and tests specified in 180.407(c) must (1) Be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration in accordance with part 107, subpart F of this chapter, (2) Be familiar with DOT-specification cargo tanks and trained and experienced in use of the inspection and testing equipment needed, and (3) Have the training and experience required to meet the definition of Registered Inspector in 171.8 of this chapter." (49 CFR 180.409(a))

In plain English

The requirement for registration and training helps prevent unqualified people from performing these critical tasks, reducing the risk of accidents and injuries. In practice, this means that motor carriers and cargo tank owners must verify the qualifications of their inspectors and testers to ensure compliance with the regulation.

What to do

• Verify that inspectors and testers are registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
• Ensure that inspectors and testers are familiar with DOT-specification cargo tanks and have the necessary training and experience.
• Review the definition of Registered Inspector in 171.8 to understand the specific requirements.
• Maintain documentation of inspectors' and testers' qualifications, including registration and training records.