What does 49 CFR 397.63 (Applicability) require?

Short answer

49 CFR 397.63 requires that any State or Indian tribe that establishes, maintains, or enforces routing designations for Non-Radioactive Hazardous Materials (NRHM) and any motor carrier that transports NRHM in commerce comply with the provisions of this subpart.

The rule says

"The provisions of this subpart apply to any State or Indian tribe that establishes, maintains, or enforces any routing designations over which NRHM may or may not be transported by motor vehicle." (49 CFR 397.63)

"They also apply to any motor carrier that transports or causes to be transported placarded or marked NRHM in commerce." (49 CFR 397.63)

In plain English

This rule applies to states, Indian tribes, and motor carriers involved in the transportation of Non-Radioactive Hazardous Materials. It sets out requirements for routing designations and the transportation of these materials. In practice, this means that states and tribes must establish and enforce safe routes for NRHM, and motor carriers must follow these routes and comply with other safety regulations when transporting NRHM.

What to do

• Review your state or tribe's routing designations for NRHM to ensure compliance with 49 CFR 397.63.
• Verify that your motor carrier company has procedures in place to comply with the provisions of this subpart when transporting NRHM.
• Ensure that drivers are trained on the safe transportation of NRHM and the requirements of this subpart.
• Regularly review and update your company's policies and procedures to ensure ongoing compliance with 49 CFR 397.63.