Safety Advisory Issued by Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA)

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) released a safety advisory for improperly installed emergency discharge control equipment on cargo tank motor vehicles in metered delivery service. Improperly installed emergency discharge control equipment may result in total power loss of the cargo tank, including steering and braking failures. Investigations by FMCSA, in conjunction with the Pipeline Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and the Railroad Commission of Texas, identified several LPG cargo tanks with improperly installed emergency discharge control equipment that caused the vehicles to unintentionally shut down while in motion.

FMCSA advises cargo tank operators to thoroughly examine the installation of emergency discharge control equipment on metered delivery cargo tank vehicles. Improperly installed equipment requires refitting, inspection and certification by a Registered Inspector. Detailed requirements for installation of emergency discharge control equipment can be found in regulations 49 CFR §173.315(n)(3); §180.407(d)(2)(iv); and §180.405(m)(1). For further information on the safety advisory, you may contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. of the Hazardous Materials Division at FMCSA.