PHMSA has published HM-215K "Hazardous Materials: Harmonization with the United Nations Recommendations, International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code, and the International Civil Aviation Organization Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air; Proposed Rule."

The rule maintains alignment with international standards by incorporating amendments which include changes to proper shipping names, hazard classes, packing groups, special provisions, packaging authorizations, air transport quantity limitations, and vessel stowage requirements.

The amendment’s intention is to enhance the safety of international hazardous materials transportation through better understanding of the regulations, an increased level of industry compliance, the smooth flow of hazardous materials from their points of origin to their points of destination, and effective emergency response in the event of a hazardous materials incident.

Shippers of hazardous materials should review all changes for a complete understanding of the various amendments.

The comment period is open until October 25, 2010. The document can be accessed online at http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/pdf/2010-19952.pdf