What does 49 CFR 397.65 (Definitions) require?

Short answer

49 CFR 397.65 defines terms used in the subpart, including Administrator, Commerce, FMCSA, Hazardous material, Indian tribe, Motor carrier, Motor vehicle, NRHM, Political subdivision, Radioactive material, Routing agency, Routing designations, Secretary, and State.

The rule says

"Administrator. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administrator, who is the chief executive of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, an agency within the United States Department of Transportation, or his/her designate." (49 CFR 397.65)

1. "Commerce. Any trade, traffic, or transportation in the United States which: (1) Is between a place under the jurisdiction of a State or Indian tribe and any place outside of such jurisdiction; or (2) Is solely within a place under the jurisdiction of a State or Indian tribe but which affects trade, traffic, or transportation described in paragraph (1) of this definition." (49 CFR 397.65)

2. "Hazardous material. A substance or material, including a hazardous substance, which has been determined by the Secretary of Transportation to be capable of posing an unreasonable risk to health, safety, or property when transported in commerce, and which has been so designated." (49 CFR 397.65)

In plain English

These definitions are crucial for understanding the regulations related to the transportation of hazardous materials. The terms defined in 49 CFR 397.65 provide clarity on the scope of the regulations, the types of materials considered hazardous, and the roles of various entities involved in the transportation process. For instance, the definition of "Commerce helps determine which transactions are subject to the regulations, while the definition of .Hazardous material" identifies the substances that require special handling and transportation procedures.

What to do

• Review the definitions in 49 CFR 397.65 to ensure understanding of the terms used in the subpart.
• Verify that your company's policies and procedures align with the definitions and requirements outlined in the regulation.
• Provide training to employees on the definitions and regulations related to the transportation of hazardous materials.