Ask X3What does 49 CFR 180.517 (Reporting and record retention requirements) require?
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Based on 49 CFR 180.517, the reporting and record retention requirements for motor-carrier owners of specification tank cars are as follows:
1. Certification and Representation Records
* Documents to keep: You must retain the certificate of construction (AAR Form 4-2) and any related papers certifying that the tank car was manufactured according to the applicable specification.
* Retention period: You must keep these documents for the entire time you own the tank car, plus one year after you stop owning it. (If ownership changes, specific rules in Section 1.3.15 of the AAR Specifications for Tank Cars apply).
2. Inspection and Test Reports
* Report requirements: Whenever a tank car is inspected and tested (per § 180.509), a written report in English must be created. It can be stored electronically, but you must be able to provide a commonly readable copy if requested by the FRA.
* Retention period: You must keep a copy of the inspection and test report until you successfully complete the *next* inspection and test of that same type.
* Required details in the report:
* The type of inspection and test performed (a checklist is acceptable).
* The results of each inspection and test.
* The tank car reporting mark and number.
* The tank car specification.
* The date (month and year) of the inspection and test.
* The location and description of any defects found, along with the method used to repair them.
* The name and address of the tank car facility, plus the name and signature of the inspector.
* The unique code (station stencil) identifying the facility.