Railroad - Nonconforming or Leaking Packages

Shipping Papers

A leaking non-bulk package must not be forwarded until repaired or repacked in accordance with §173.3.

A leaking bulk package must not be forwarded unless repaired and approved by the FRA. Notification and approval must be made in writing, or by phone or electronic means, with subsequent written confirmation provided two weeks later. For the appropriate address and telephone number, see §107.117(d)(4). Leaking bulk packages may be removed without repair as necessary to reduce or eliminate any harm to human health or the environment.

All HAZMAT that leaked from a package in any rail car or railroad property must be carefully cleaned and removed.

Hazardous Materials Guidance

The FRA> has the authority to issue one-time movement approvals (OTMA) for all bulk packages that no longer conform to the HMR. There are three types of noncompliant packaging:

• OTMA-1
• OTMA-2
• OTMA-3

The FRA Hazardous Materials Division (FRA-HM) has established a procedure within a document called the HMG-127 for these types of packages. The applicant must submit the information authorized under §171.6, and the FRA-HM personnel must evaluate the information to determine whether it is safe to move the bulk package or packaging and what conditions should apply to its movement.

To learn more about Railroad HAZMAT visit our DOT Railroad HAZMAT Online Training web page.