What inspectors reported

CVSA released results September 10 from an unannounced June 8–12 hazardous-materials and dangerous-goods inspection initiative. Inspectors completed 5,046 inspections and reported 683 vehicles placed out of service, a combined 13.5% rate.

The U.S. portion involved 4,122 inspections and 500 out-of-service vehicles. Canada reported 924 inspections and 183 out-of-service vehicles.

Frequent problem areas

CVSA reported violations involving placards and markings, cargo securement, leaking packages, shipping papers, emergency-response information, registrations, permits, and endorsements.

A violation count is not the same as a crash count, and one inspection can identify more than one problem.

What it means for drivers

Hazmat drivers should verify shipping papers, placarding, package condition, load securement, emergency-response information, endorsements, and carrier permits before departure.

The published results describe an enforcement sample, not the rate for every carrier or shipment. U.S. drivers should use current PHMSA and FMCSA requirements for the specific material and quantity.

Primary sources and supporting records

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