Archive for News

DG Digest: PHMSA and FRA reverse 2020 rule, suspend authorization of liquefied natural gas (LNG) transport in rail tank cars.

Labor Day has come and gone. Hopefully, you had a great summer, topped out by a relaxing long holiday! Today (if you’re reading this on Tuesday) is the traditional day when most schoolchildren return to classes. That means busier roads, crosswalks, and lots of excited little ones out much earlier than has been the case... The post DG Digest: PHMSA and FRA reverse 2020 rule, suspend authorization of liquefied natural gas (LNG) transport in rail tank cars. appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

DG Digest: The FRA Extends Comment Period That Would Impose New Certification Requirements.

We head into the final week of August with high heat persisting in many areas of the country. Although the autumn might be just around the corner, now’s no time to let up on our precautions against heat related illness and injury. Let’s remain vigilant and help protect our co-workers until things start to cool... The post DG Digest: The FRA Extends Comment Period That Would Impose New Certification Requirements. appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

DG Digest: PHMSA Publishes Incident Reporting FAQ’s

The Labelmaster family joins all Americans in mourning the terrible loss of life and devastation associated with the wildfires on the island of Maui in Hawaii. Many avenues are available to offer assistance to those affected, and we share the hope that the people of Maui will soon get the help they need. It’s also... The post DG Digest: PHMSA Publishes Incident Reporting FAQ’s appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

Quiz: How well do you know secondary hazmat container regulations?

Secondary hazmat containment used to mean one thing: paint cans. But now, shippers are switching to new Capsuloc™—the screw-top secondary container that’s lighter weight, more durable and easier to use than paint cans. How well do you know the regulations for secondary hazmat containers? This quiz is for you! It’s not easy, so remember: You... The post Quiz: How well do you know secondary hazmat container regulations? appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

DG Digest: IATA Publishes List of “Significant Changes” for the Upcoming 65th Edition of the DGR.

Here we are in the middle of August already. Where does summer fly off to? Hopefully, you’ve had a chance to enjoy it a little—if not, you have a couple of weeks left, so get on out there. It’s a “two-weeker” in the blog this time! After a super-quiet first week, the second week was... The post DG Digest: IATA Publishes List of “Significant Changes” for the Upcoming 65th Edition of the DGR. appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

Supply Chain Moves: Week of August 7th, 2023

  Week of August 7th, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance The supply chain has evolved from being a cost center to being a differentiator that can be a real competitive advantage for businesses.   Let’s examine some recent industry news.  SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS OUR PERSPECTIVE To learn more about dangerous goods software... The post Supply Chain Moves: Week of August 7th, 2023 appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

Game-inspired hazmat training rocks. What about training for the rest of your life?

Since we released our new General Awareness Hazmat Training course earlier this year, Dangerous Goods pros have been saying it’s the coolest, most accessible online hazmat training course ever. It’s not only a lot more engaging than most DG training, it’s actually fun. This game-inspired training module takes you inside a virtual warehouse, where you... The post Game-inspired hazmat training rocks. What about training for the rest of your life? appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

DG Digest: Federal agencies publish semi-annual agendas

After a busy regulatory period for the last blog entry, this last week featured a much quieter time. Meanwhile summer goes on, so keep watching those heat safety risks. And don’t forget to have a little fun—August is the last month of summer, so be sure to try and enjoy it! Here’s the latest news:... The post DG Digest: Federal agencies publish semi-annual agendas appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

Supply Chain Moves: Week of July 17th, 2023

  Week of July 17th, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance With 2023 halfway over, businesses are paying close attention to what is to come in the second half of the year and into 2024.   Let’s examine some recent industry news.  SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS OUR PERSPECTIVE To learn more about dangerous goods... The post Supply Chain Moves: Week of July 17th, 2023 appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

DG Digest: PHMSA seeks feedback on modernization of its Hazardous Materials Regulations

Now that the Independence Day holiday has come and gone, here we are in the full swing of summer. Make sure that your workplace has a solid plan in place to mitigate the effects of the inevitable hot weather, and to safely account for the absence of employees that are away on vacation—it’s “prime time”... The post DG Digest: PHMSA seeks feedback on modernization of its Hazardous Materials Regulations appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

Supply Chain Moves: Week of July 10th, 2023

  Week of July 10th, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Drone delivery has been a hot topic in the supply chain for years, and it continues to gain steam. But how big of an impact it will have (and when) is still unclear.   Let’s examine some recent industry news.  SUPPLY CHAIN... The post Supply Chain Moves: Week of July 10th, 2023 appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

How our new packaging partnership makes large format lithium battery transport easier.

With electric vehicles now making up 7% of new car sales in the U.S.—and registrations 63% higher than one year ago—it’s clear that EV technology is changing how Americans drive. It’s also changing how car companies and dealers handle breakdowns, accidents and other routine automotive incidents. After more than a century of working with petroleum-powered... The post How our new packaging partnership makes large format lithium battery transport easier. appeared first on Labelmaster Read more [...]

DG Digest: PHMSA publishes rule which requires rail carriers to provide greater levels of information about hazardous materials.

PHMSA published the proposed rule discussed here last week which will require rail carriers to provide greater levels of information about hazardous materials in train consists to first responders when potentially dangerous incidents occur. A BNSF train rolls through a curve near Rock Island, Washington in July of 2017. Image © 7/2017 by Nikki Burgess;... The post DG Digest: PHMSA publishes rule which requires rail carriers to provide greater levels of information about hazardous materials. Read more [...]

Supply Chain Moves: Week of June 26th, 2023

  Week of June 26th, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Artificial intelligence (AI) is already revolutionizing the supply chain but has the potential to be even more disruptive in the future as technology advances and adoption increases.   Let’s examine some recent industry news.  SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS OUR PERSPECTIVE To learn more... The post Supply Chain Moves: Week of June 26th, 2023 appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

DG Digest: PHMSA to formally announce HM-263, a sharp change in the way rail carriers track and report hazmat in transport.

Heading towards the Independence Day holiday, the regulatory news is mostly about reporting requirements. The recent large train derailment in Ohio has definitely energized Congress and regulators to take a harder look at what kind of information should be available to emergency response personnel from subject carriers. Here’s the latest: PHMSA In an early notice... The post DG Digest: PHMSA to formally announce HM-263, a sharp change in the way rail carriers track and report hazmat in transport. Read more [...]

Quiz: Are you a large format lithium battery transport expert? Part 2

Compliantly shipping lithium batteries large enough for electric vehicles, data centers or solar power storage is challenging. Lots of hazmat pros were stumped by our recent quiz, so we decided to give you all another shot! Don’t know all the answers? Remember, you can always work with the experts at Labelmaster. Make sure your shipments... The post Quiz: Are you a large format lithium battery transport expert? Part 2 appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

PHMSA terminates Explosive (EX) classification approvals for holders who can’t prove successful tests.

Here’s the latest news from what was a quiet regulatory week: PHMSA The agency announced that it has terminated the Explosive (EX) classification approvals listed in the linked-to notice. PHMSA published a Federal Register Notice on May 4, 2021, notifying the approval holders listed that PHMSA intended to terminate their approvals for failure to provide... The post PHMSA terminates Explosive (EX) classification approvals for holders who can’t prove successful tests. appeared first on Read more [...]

FMCSA Renewing ICR titled, ‘‘Hazardous Materials Safety Permits.’’

Even as many workplaces begin to see open docks and other work areas for the summer, wildfire smoke has become a prevalent concern. Be sure that if your site is located in an area that is affected by such smoke, that you have a safety plan in place to minimize the impacts and protect your... The post FMCSA Renewing ICR titled, ‘‘Hazardous Materials Safety Permits.’’ appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

New DOT Special Permit makes Capsuloc™ secondary hazmat containers even more essential.

Last year, we introduced Capsuloc™—an innovative new secondary hazmat container that was superior to paint can-style secondary containers in almost every way. Now, there’s no “almost” about it. On May 10, 2023, PHMSA issued Special Permit DOT-SP 21488, which gives Capsuloc relief from regulatory burdens similar to the relief received by other Special Permit packaging... The post New DOT Special Permit makes Capsuloc™ secondary hazmat containers even more essential. Read more [...]

The EPA has published new guidance related to the characterization of waste related to lithium batteries.

It’s the first week of June and here comes summer! If you haven’t yet implemented your workplace’s summer heat illness and injury prevention program, now’s the time!  Heat stress and heat stroke are among the most common workplace illnesses and the summertime is the biggest period of the year where they tend to occur. Help... The post The EPA has published new guidance related to the characterization of waste related to lithium batteries. appeared first on Labelmaster Read more [...]

PHMSA publishes its newest international harmonization proposal. The NPRM is HM-215Q

PHMSA As just noted above, in a major action the agency has published its newest international harmonization proposal. The NPRM is HM-215Q and will align current US 49 CFR HMR regulations more closely with the current UN structure found in the ICA/IATA, IMDG, and UNMR texts. Highlights include: • Incorporation by Reference: PHMSA proposes to... The post PHMSA publishes its newest international harmonization proposal. The NPRM is HM-215Q appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

Prescription for Dangerous Goods anxiety? Use DGIS hazmat software regularly!

Ever wish you could take a pill that would instantly help you feel better about your hazmat shipping operation—and life in general? Unfortunately, there’s no such pill. But there is DGIS. Our DGIS solution—a.k.a. Dangerous Goods Information System—can relieve the acute anxiety you may feel about your company’s hazmat processes. If you’re depressed about outdated... The post Prescription for Dangerous Goods anxiety? Use DGIS hazmat software regularly! appeared first Read more [...]

PHMSA announces ICR renewal for IBC’s and Portable Tanks

Rolling into the third week of May finds the regulatory world relatively quiet. If you haven’t had a chance yet to get your summer heat safety program set up, maybe use the break to finish it! Here’s the latest: PHMSA The agency published a request for comment on its plan to request renewal of six... The post PHMSA announces ICR renewal for IBC’s and Portable Tanks appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

Supply Chain Moves: Week of May 15th, 2023

  Week of May 15th, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance In today’s challenging supply chain environment, some companies are finding it difficult to navigate disruptions while others are more equipped to navigate those challenges. Likewise, some are increasing investment in key areas of their operations and lacking in others.   Let’s examine... The post Supply Chain Moves: Week of May 15th, 2023 appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

Transport Canada Publishes a Revised Tank Car Construction Standard

Mid-May is here and with it both some serious stormy weather as well as some rapidly warming temperatures in various parts of the country. If your workplace hasn’t yet shifted into its “summer safety season” programs, now’s the time to make it happen. Storm damage and heat related illnesses can both be trouble for your... The post Transport Canada Publishes a Revised Tank Car Construction Standard appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

DOT’s drug and alcohol testing program, now allowing the use of oral sampling

The end of the first week of May finished up with some changes coming to DOT required drug and alcohol testing programs that can affect many carriers, and an important safety advisory in reference to rail transport. So, let’s have a look at the news: DOT The agency published a rule that amends the DOT’s... The post DOT’s drug and alcohol testing program, now allowing the use of oral sampling appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

DG Digest: On this May Day, NACOSH announces public meeting for May 31st, and PHMSA announces rule making for HM-219D

This edition of the DG Digest publishes on May Day. The first day of May is traditionally a day that celebrates workers and their rights. One big right? The right to work safely. As HSE and DG professionals, one of our primary reasons for being is to help ensure that safety is always top of... The post DG Digest: On this May Day, NACOSH announces public meeting for May 31st, and PHMSA announces rule making for HM-219D appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

DG Digest: USPS updates Pub 52, will start collecting electronic data to ensure safe DG handling on July 9, 2023

The weekend just concluded featured the annual Earth Day commemoration. While opinions may differ on the direction of environmental policies, every company can usually benefit from ideas that help to reduce waste streams and that allow for the more effective use of consumable resources like energy and water. Both these things can help to reduce... The post DG Digest: USPS updates Pub 52, will start collecting electronic data to ensure safe DG handling on July 9, 2023 appeared first on Labelmaster Read more [...]

Top 5 reasons to attend the 2023 Dangerous Goods Symposium

Here’s our list of top 5 reasons to attend this year’s event! Of course there are more reasons to attend but these are our favorites for now. Click HERE to get registered now! Early bird pricing is good through 4/30/23 Make sure your shipments are safe and in complete compliance with a full line of... The post Top 5 reasons to attend the 2023 Dangerous Goods Symposium appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

Supply Chain Moves: Week of April 17th, 2023

  Week of April 17th, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Businesses are placing greater focus on supply chain transparency to support environmental, social and governance (ESG) efforts and create better end-to-end operations.   Let’s examine some recent industry news.   SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS OUR PERSPECTIVE To learn more about dangerous goods software or... The post Supply Chain Moves: Week of April 17th, 2023 appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

Ready to start calling hazmat training “Dangerous Goods gaming”?

General awareness training is the foundation of all Dangerous Goods training. Virtually everyone whose job involves handling, managing or transporting hazardous materials in any way is required to take general awareness training—and renew their training every three years. Since everyone has to take it, shouldn’t it appeal to the most people? That was the idea... The post Ready to start calling hazmat training “Dangerous Goods gaming”? appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

DG Digest: PHMSA announces meeting regarding input to the upcoming 2024 ERG.

Mid-April finds PHMSA a little busy; the agency published a pair of notices that will help shape future policy, with one pertaining to the popular and widely used ERG. Meanwhile, spring weather continues across the country with its attendant potential for severe conditions, so be sure your workplace is ready to cope. Safety first and... The post DG Digest: PHMSA announces meeting regarding input to the upcoming 2024 ERG. appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

Supply Chain Moves: Week of April 3, 2023

  Week of April 3rd, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance In the face of ongoing supply chain challenges, the electronics industry is focusing on optimizing strategies and processes to manage disruptions and keep goods moving.   Let’s examine some recent industry news.   SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS OUR PERSPECTIVE Learn how you can simplify... The post Supply Chain Moves: Week of April 3, 2023 appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

DG Digest: PHMSA publishes a safety advisory related to the recent train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio.

Here we are in April! Spring Break time is here, so let’s all be sure that we have planned how we will help employees stay safe during a period when many workplaces may be shorthanded or have employees daydreaming of the beach (don’t we all!). Hopefully, warmer weather will soon give all of us a... The post DG Digest: PHMSA publishes a safety advisory related to the recent train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio. appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

Adding expertise to your ERP transforms your dangerous goods shipping operation

Most manufacturing businesses have adopted software to integrate core production and finance to accelerate performance and maintain regulatory compliance. Over the past few decades, this has resulted in significant overall efficiency gains and better regulatory compliance. However, there are still areas for improvement. For example, manufacturers can often run simple shipping requests through their core... The post <strong>Adding expertise to your ERP transforms your dangerous goods shipping Read more [...]

DG Digest: PHMSA Publishes a Renewal of Its ICR Package Covering Hazardous Materials Incident Reporting Requirements.

Welcome to the first full week of spring! As we put winter behind us, let’s all start turning our focus to the safety concerns of warmer weather – things like severe storm readiness planning, keeping gutters and drains clear for heavy rain run-off, and planning for the coming summer and safeguarding our fellow employees from... The post DG Digest: PHMSA Publishes a Renewal of Its ICR Package Covering Hazardous Materials Incident Reporting Requirements. appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

Supply Chain Moves: Week of March 20, 2023

  Week of March 20th, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Organizations looking to boost supply chain performance are investing in their warehousing systems and processes in order to automate and streamline operations.   Let’s examine some recent industry news.   SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS OUR PERSPECTIVE Learn how you can simplify dangerous goods shipping.... The post Supply Chain Moves: Week of March 20, 2023 appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

DG Digest: New Information Collection Request (ICR) Proposal From OSHA Regarding the Lead Standard

This coming week will bring the official start of spring—no doubt we’re all happy about that! Meanwhile, we need to start preparing our facilities for the spring storm season in much of the country. Be sure that your emergency shelter plans and areas are ready and your employees are trained to respond to warnings correctly.... The post DG Digest: New Information Collection Request (ICR) Proposal From OSHA Regarding the Lead Standard appeared first on Labelmaster Blog. Read more [...]

Quiz: Are you a large format lithium battery transport expert?

Compliantly shipping lithium batteries is complex. When those batteries are large enough for electric vehicles, data centers or solar power storage, compliant transport becomes even more challenging.  Think you’ve mastered the regulations for transporting large format lithium batteries? This quiz is for you!  It’s not easy, so if you don’t know all the answers, remember... The post Quiz: Are you a large format lithium battery transport expert? appeared first on Labelmaster Read more [...]