States Tighten Security for Hazmat Transport

(Michael James - TT) Providing 10-year employment histories will now be the norm for would-be drivers of fuel tankers and other hazmats in Michigan.

Michigan-domiciled carriers and drivers wanting to carry hazardous materials now face heightened security measures that the Michigan Public Service Commission has instituted.

Rules put in place Oct. 22, which took effect immediately, include a 10-year employment history for companies and drivers and inspections of company facilities by the state police. The new requirements do not apply to companies already licensed or the 43,000 drivers who carry hazardous materials endorsements on their commercial driver licenses.

The move was a direct result of fears that terrorists might try to use big rigs, and hazardous materials trucks in particular, as weapons following the Sept. 11 attacks, state officials told the Lansing Free Press.

For the full story, see the Nov. 5 print edition of Transport Topics. Subscribe today.

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