Transporting gas cylinders can be a tricky task, and while it is recommended to rely on professional gas transport companies, there may be circumstances where you need to handle it yourself. In such cases, it’s crucial to know the correct procedure. Let’s dive into the requirements and safety measures you need to follow for successful transportation.
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Vehicle Requirements for Transporting Cylinders
To transport gas cylinders in a vehicle, a few essential items must be present:
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Shipping papers: Also known as hazard manifests, pick-tickets, way bills, or daily trip sheets, these documents provide information about the type, size, and quantity of hazardous materials. The driver should always have them within reach, unless the material is being used as a trade material. It’s important to note that medical oxygen does not fall under this exception.
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Emergency Response Guide: It is mandatory to have a North American Emergency Response Guide or an equivalent version in the vehicle.
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Safety Permit: In the case of transporting more than one liter of a material that is poisonous by inhalation or a compressed gas with at least 85 percent methane content, a safety permit issued by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is required. You can find the permit application online at FMCSA.
Requirements for Drivers and Motor Carrier Companies
The driver and the motor carrier company transporting cylinders must fulfill specific obligations:
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Hazmat Training: Any employee who comes in contact with or drives a vehicle transporting 1,001 pounds or more of hazardous materials must undergo Hazmat training. This training should occur within 90 days of employment and be renewed every three years.
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Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Training: Drivers must possess a commercial driver’s license.
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Drug and Alcohol Information: Drivers should receive adequate information about drug and alcohol usage.
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Supervisor Training on Drug Testing: The driver’s supervisor must be trained in drug testing.
Motor carrier companies handling more than 3,500 gallons of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) must carry $5 million in financial responsibility coverage. For interstate or foreign commerce transportation of LPG in containment systems not exceeding 3,500 water gallons, $1 million in coverage is required. Intrastate transport of LPG in systems smaller than 3,500 gallons are subject only to state financial responsibility regulations. Additionally, hazardous materials haulers must provide insurance liability ranging from $1 million to $5 million, depending on the cargo.
Tips for Home Health Workers and Patients Transporting Oxygen Cylinders
If you are a home health worker or a patient needing to transport oxygen cylinders, consider the following guidelines:
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Use a Cart or Holster: Carry the portable oxygen tank using a cart or a specially designed holster that resembles a shoulder bag. Avoid placing tanks in closed bags or backpacks.
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Properly Secure the Tanks: Ensure that the tanks are securely fastened in the vehicle to prevent rolling. Liquid oxygen tanks should always remain upright, while portable cylinders can be laid on their sides. It’s important to protect the valves from potential collisions. Never place tanks in tightly closed spaces like trunks.
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Maintain Adequate Ventilation: Sit near a partially opened window to prevent the accumulation of oxygen and heat inside the vehicle.
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Notify Bus Services in Advance: When traveling by bus with oxygen, inform the bus service in advance. Greyhound allows a maximum of four cylinders: two on board and two in the cargo compartment.
For a visual demonstration on how to safely transport oxygen tanks in your car, refer to the following video:
The Importance of Proper Equipment for Cylinder Transportation
When it comes to transporting gas cylinders, choosing the right equipment is crucial. The USA Safety Truck Transport Stands provide a safe and reliable method for transporting gas cylinders. By securely bolting the stands to the vehicle or trailer’s bed, the included polypropylene straps prevent cylinders from falling over, while the locking post and ring plate eliminate any potential up-and-down movement of the cylinders. To ensure proper use, it is essential to have a cylinder safety cap along with the stand. If you have any questions about these stands or other products we carry, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Witness the Dangers of Cylinder Transportation: A Video
To truly understand the risks associated with transporting gas cylinders, take a moment to watch this alarming video of a gas cylinder delivery truck involved in a highway accident:
Additional Information and Safety Guidelines
Remember, every situation involving cylinder transportation can be unique. It is highly recommended to consult with your local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) to ensure that you are following all the necessary safety requirements. For more detailed information on gas cylinder safety and regulations, check out our Gas Cylinder Safety Guide and Gas Cylinder Regulations & Guidelines pages.
For insurance brokers and carriers offering transportation of hazardous materials policies, consider:
- ACE Insurance Hazmat Transportation Coverage (Chubb)
- Colonial Hazmat Truck Insurance
- Freberg Environmental Insurance
Explore the following state and regional contact lists for further assistance:
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) State and Regional Hazardous Materials Contacts
- State Hazmat Programs
- Note that the WI DOT defers to the FMCSA for insurance requirements when transporting hazardous materials.
For more information, refer to the following sources:
- COPD.net: Traveling with Oxygen
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, operational requirements, transportation of hazardous materials
- First Class Medical: Traveling with Oxygen
- HomeCare article, citing information from the Dept. of Transportation’s law, title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations
- Pipeline and hazardous materials safety administration, U.S. Dept. of Transportation, Class 2 materials, federal regulation 177.840
- Title 49 of Federal Dept. of Transportation regulations
- Title 49, Transportation, Carriage by Public Highway, class 2 materials, U.S. Dept. of Transportation federal regulation 177.840
- Transportation of Hazardous Materials Insurance
- U.S. Dept. of Transportation, Research and Special Programs Administration
- Vitas Healthcare: How to Travel with Oxygen
- Wisconsin Commercial Driver’s Manual
Remember, your safety and the safety of others should always be a top priority when transporting cylinders. Stay informed, follow the guidelines, and ensure a smooth and secure journey. For more insightful articles on various topics, visit 5 WS.
