Transporting gas odorants is a critical aspect of the gas distribution process, presenting specific challenges and risks.
DOT Cylinders
DOT Returnable Cylinders: These cylinders, equipped with a dip tube and valved for pressure unloading, offer a safer alternative to traditional drums.
DOT Portable Tanks (119 gallons or less): Portable tanks are practical when sustainable odorant inventory needs to be provided for odorization requirements. Odorant can be transferred from storage tanks to portable tanks and then transported to smaller odorizers.
Transportation of Odorant: Compliance and Safety
Ensuring the safe transportation of odorant products is crucial for protecting vehicle operators, passengers, employees, and the general public. Compliance with DOT shipping requirements (49 CFR Part 172 Subpart B) is paramount.
DOT Shipping Requirements
Gas odorants fall under the hazard class of Flammable Liquid. The hazardous materials table (§172.101) provides essential information for labeling, packaging, and stowage of odorants during transportation.
Shipping Papers and Exceptions
Shipping papers, as mandated by Hazardous Material Regulation (49 CFR Part 172 Subpart C), must be used for certain quantities of odorants during shipment. However, there are exceptions outlined in 49 CFR §173.6 for transporting odorants in containers with volumes less than 8 gallons or weights under 66 pounds, supporting a principal business.
Vehicle Placards
Proper placarding of vehicles is a key safety measure. The placard provides crucial information about hazards to transportation workers and emergency responders. Operators must ensure correct placarding unless exempted by specific regulations.
The placard must be legible on all four sides of the vehicle or trailer.
The UN Identification Number should be displayed with the placard.
The driver must hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) HazMat operator if the truck is placarded.
In conclusion, the transportation of gas odorants demands a careful balance between efficiency and safety. Companies should evaluate alternatives to traditional drum deliveries and adhere to DOT regulations to ensure the secure and compliant movement of these essential materials.