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DG Digest: EPA Clarifies E-Manifest Rules, FRA Proposes Waiver Standard Updates, and OSHA Seeks Input on Noise and Carcinogen Standards

Halloween is over. Hopefully, everyone enjoyed their treats! And hopefully everyone has remembered to set their clocks back an hour as of yesterday (if you are reading this on Monday!). Who would have thought November could arrive so quickly? Here’s last week’s regulatory news: EPA In a new final rule, the agency issued a set

DG Digest: PHMSA Addresses Cryogenic Liquid Risks, FAA Issues Safety Alert for Battery-Related Cargo, and Transport Canada Releases Updated Training Guidance

The leaves are falling fast now as we enter into the second month of autumn. Are your wintertime snow and ice clearance plans in place? Before too long, many parts of the country will be experiencing such weather, so if you haven’t quite finished your preparations, now’s a great time to do so. No one

DG Digest: EPA determines TCEP, a flame-retardant used in plastics and foam products, poses unreasonable risk

The end of September is here—how fast did that month fly by! As October comes in, cooler weather is rapidly making its way into many parts of the country. Before long, the “S” word—snow—might start becoming a consideration for folks in the high country. Now’s a great time to start thinking about your wintertime plowing

Shaping the Future of Dangerous Goods: 2024 DG Symposium Recap 

The Dangerous Goods Symposium once again proved to be the go-to place for the DG industry to come together to exchange insights and collaborate. This year’s symposium gave attendees the chance to learn directly from government regulators and top professionals across the DG, logistics and supply chain sectors.   Here’s a quick snapshot of the event:

DG Digest: Federal Agencies Release Semi-Annual Regulatory Agendas, PHMSA Announces $41M in Grants to Support First Responders

The third week in August found regulatory activity picking up a little—perhaps it means folks are beginning to return from all those summer vacations as the season begins to wind down towards Labor Day. If you haven’t had your summer fun yet, don’t dawdle, school and the autumn aren’t terribly far way, and it’s a

DG Digest: Will CPSC Move to Ban Aerosol Dusters?

Here we are rolling into August already! With this being an election year the various political campaigns are in full swing, but much of “official” Washington spends most of the coming month in recess. Will that reflect in a lightened regulatory schedule? We’ll all find out together. Meanwhile, stay cool if you can! Here is

DG Digest: From Waste Tracking to Emergency Response: Regulatory Updates from EPA and OSHA

EPA The agency finalized amendments to the hazardous waste manifest regulations and the hazardous waste electronic manifest (e-Manifest) regulations under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Among other things, EPA is finalizing changes to manifest regulations for shipments of hazardous waste that are exported for treatment, storage, and disposal. See the rule changes here.

Label Finder Updates Include International Shipping Options

In the fast-paced world of Dangerous Goods (DG) compliance, selecting the proper shipping label is essential. Without the right labels, DG shipments will be rejected by regulatory authorities and carriers, creating harmful supply chain delays. However, finding the proper label isn’t always quick or easy. In fact, with numerous label options across nine hazmat classes,

DG Digest: Attention Transporters of Hazardous Materials: PHMSA Proposes Registration Fee Updates; OSHA to Hold Public Meeting on UN GHS Standards

June traditionally begins the summer season and the end of the regular school year in many places across the country. Be sure to account for the potential additional presence of children enjoying their summer break during your travel, work, and especially while driving. Here’s the week’s news: PHMSA In an NPRM, the agency, in order

DG Digest: FRA Ups Railroad Safety with Dispatcher & Signal Maintainer Certifications; OSHA Updates Vinyl Chloride Standard

The Memorial Day weekend just concluded is the unofficial kick-off to the nation’s summer season. As such, it’s now a great time to review your home and workplace heat safety plans. Employees that work out of doors or in non-climate-controlled buildings can face real risks during hot weather. Be sure that you review your site

DG Digest: FAA, FMCSA, CPSC & OSHA: Updates on Undeclared Dangerous Goods, Radioactive Materials, Fuel Containers & More

Hopefully, everyone enjoyed the weekend just past, with “Star Wars Day” and Cinco de Mayo both falling over the period. Nowadays, it’s kind of the unofficial start to the summer season. Here’s to a great upcoming summertime for all of us! Let’s take a look at the current regulatory news: FAA The agency has published

Want more large-format lithium battery packaging options? We’ve got good news. 

Large-format lithium batteries power our world—from electric vehicles and energy storage systems to industrial robots and even aircraft. But with great power comes great responsibility, especially when it comes to safe and compliant transportation. That’s why Labelmaster’s DGeo packaging division has partnered with Action Wood 360 to offer easy-to-use collapsible wooden crates for large-format battery

DG Digest: New PHMSA Rule Makes Multi-Modal Hazmat Shipping Easier, Aligns with International Standards

As we publish, it’s Tax Day! Are you ready? Hopefully everyone has things under control for the year. It’s always an adventure. Meanwhile, it was an eventful regulatory week as PHMSA published its long awaited HM-215Q harmonization rule.  Let’s dive right in: PHMSA As just noted, the final rule updating international harmonization was published. The

DG Digest: Shipping Accident in Baltimore: A Reminder of Safe Cargo Practices

Shipping accident in Baltimore As most people already know, last week the Singapore flagged container ship MS Dali collided with the Francis Scott Key road bridge at the mouth of the harbor in Baltimore, Maryland. The bridge subsequently collapsed, tragically killing six maintenance workers on the span. Casualties may have been far greater but for

DG Digest: PHMSA Clarifies Special Permit Process, Adds Hazmat Training FAQs, and Issues Monkeypox Guidance

It’s mid-March, and the formal beginning of Spring is just a day or two away. Hopefully, every will have a chance to enjoy the improving weather and perhaps a spring break holiday. Be sure to include appropriate safety planning in your spring events! Here’s the last week’s extremely busy regulatory news: PHMSA The agency published

With the growing proliferation of lithium batteries, here’s how we’ve got safe shipping covered 

Lithium batteries power our lives—from smartphones and power tools to hoverboards and e-bikes. But their potential fire risk is so significant that airlines don’t even allow them in checked bags. The lithium battery chain is now expected to grow by more than 30 percent annually for the remainder of the decade, with a market size

Faster than coffee: Automating hazmat shipping with DGIS software

Why do so many people love single-serve coffee makers? Because they make a complex process simple and fast. That’s also why many hazmat organizations use advanced automation software. Dangerous Goods transport is one of the most complex processes in modern industry. Automation solutions that make hazmat shipping simpler and faster are essential for keeping your

DG Digest: NEW IMDG and ADR Corrigenda Released

It’s Presidents Day this Monday, honoring all the men who have thus far served as our nation’s chief executive. Most people have a favorite president from history; do you? Given the holiday, most federal and state agencies are closed today. However, last week did feature some new regulatory action. Here’s the latest: IMDG Code The

DG Digest: New tranche of semi-annual regulatory agendas released

Winter rolls on as we all recover from “The Big Game” on Sunday. Did your team win? Hey—there’s always next year, and baseball spring training starts later this week. Never give up, right? It was a relatively quiet regulatory week; here’s the latest news: Semi-Annual Regulatory Agendas A third tranche of new regulatory agendas has

DG Digest: An NPRM from OSHA in reference to required emergency response measures and organization

“Punxsutawney Phil,” the famous prognosticating groundhog in Pennsylvania, did not, according to news reports, see his shadow last Friday. According to the tradition, that means we’ll see a speedy end to winter. Let’s hope that groundhog nailed it! Meanwhile, however, just in case he’s wrong, be sure your winter safety plans remain in effect until

DG Digest: Proposed rulemaking from the CPSC regarding reducing required size of safety marks on consumer coin/button cell battery packaging

Here we are at the end of January! Whew! One more month of the worst weather to go. Hopefully, later this week, “Punxsutawney Phil” the famous groundhog in Pennsylvania will predict a quick end to winter.  Hang in there and stay safe! Here’s this week’s regulatory news: CPSC The Commission published a proposed rule (via

What customers are saying about Labelmaster’s new line of CurTec shipping products

Recently, Labelmaster announced the addition of CurTec high-performance plastic containers, drums and pails to our already robust packaging offering—allowing us to provide the industry’s broadest assortment of UN-certified primary containers. For Dangerous Goods (DG) pros, the lineup may be the right packaging solution to fit their needs for safe and compliant shipping. Here’s what we’ve

DG Digest: US Postal Service proposal to impose new packaging requirements for hazmat consigned by mail.

Holiday reminder – if you’re shipping to a destination with the expectation of a pre-December 25th arrival, time is just about up! If you are consigning dangerous goods, the holiday doesn’t excuse us from ensuring compliance, so let’s all bear down through the rush and ship things in accordance with what we know is correct!

DG Digest: United States Postal Service proposing to require the hazardous materials icon in lieu of the service icon.

Holiday time bustle continues! Many workplaces will see a little short-handedness amongst the staff as employees take seasonal vacation periods, so let’s all make sure that we help the folks that are working to do so safely, avoiding “short-cuts” that may appear to save time or make up for someone not being present, but in

4 ways non-essential hazmat training can boost your career.

Regulations mandate that hazmat employees—i.e., people who directly handle or supervise shipments of Dangerous Goods—be trained to perform their specific functions. To comply with these regulations, you may already participate in training sessions, or be taking one or more online hazmat training courses. That training is mandatory. But what about hazmat training that isn’t mandatory?

DG Digest: OSHA Advisory Committee to meet Dec 12th & U.S. EPA proposes including concept of ‘environmental justice’ into regulatory analysis

Welcome back all! Hopefully, everyone had a chance to rest, recharge, and enjoy the just-concluded Thanksgiving holiday period. This edition of the DG Digest is a “two-weeker,” given that there was no publication last Monday, the 19th. As one may therefore guess, any number of things popped up over the last fourteen days, so let’s

Why lithium battery shippers must examine insurance costs and coverage

Shipping lithium batteries or battery-powered devices is an ongoing challenge. From the everyday batteries that power laptops and games to the larger batteries that power eBikes to the massive ones that power electric vehicles, complying with evolving regulations takes expertise and dedication. But regulatory compliance isn’t the only challenge. What about insurance? In recent years,

DG Digest: PHMSA announces virtual “Research & Technology Forum” that explores new ways of dealing with hazardous materials.

This edition of the DG Digest appears just as the nation wraps up the Veteran’s Day holiday. The Labelmaster family joins all Americans in saluting those who have served. Thank you! Here’s the regulatory news from the week just concluded: PHMSA The agency’s Office of Hazardous Materials Safety (OHMS) will hold a public Research, Development

A Simple Guide to 2023/24 Dangerous Goods Regulatory Books

The simple guide to 2023/24 Dangerous Goods regulatory books Don’t look now, but it’s almost winter, and it will be 2024 before you know it. That means new Dangerous Goods regulations will soon be coming into force—and you’ll need new regulatory publications to keep track of them. Of course, sometimes it’s hard just keeping track

DG Digest: EPA is working on adjustments within the universal waste regulations to improve safety standards and reduce fires from mismanaged end-of-life lithium batteries.

If you’re like many readers of this blog, you’re seeing this on Tuesday morning, after it appeared in your email overnight. If that’s you—Happy Halloween! Let’s all remember that the kids are going to be out in force for their treats in the evening, and they may not pay as much attention as they should

Supply Chain Moves: Week of October 16th, 2023

  Week of October 16th, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance As companies look to expand – whether domestically or internationally – there is a wide range of factors to consider, including the supply chain challenges.  Let’s examine some recent industry news.  SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS OUR PERSPECTIVE Have questions about dangerous goods

8 Dangerous Goods myths and misconceptions—busted!

Remember Mythbusters? A couple of former Hollywood effects pros created one of the top shows on cable TV by debunking popular myths and misconceptions. They proved—over and over—that just because “everyone knows” something doesn’t make it true. If there were a supply chain TV network, Dangerous Goods professionals could probably run their own version of

Supply Chain Moves: Week of October 2nd, 2023

  Week of October 2nd, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance The push toward greater sustainability, automation and speed within the supply chain has led to further innovation in packaging. Let’s examine some recent industry news.  SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS OUR PERSPECTIVE Have questions about dangerous goods transport? Call the Labelmaster Regulatory Hotline

Supply Chain Moves: Week of September 18th, 2023

  Week of September 18th, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance It is only September, but supply chain professionals are already thinking about 2024 and beyond. Monitoring emerging trends and challenges is important in order to proactively plan for the future. Let’s examine some recent industry news on how to navigate supply

Supply Chain Moves: Week of September 5th, 2023

  Week of September 5th, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Disruptions are just a fact of life in the supply chain, and they continue to emerge – whether due to droughts, hurricanes, supplier issues or outdated systems. That’s why it’s important for organizations to be prepared for when they arise.  Let’s

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

Supply Chain Moves: Week of August 21st, 2023

  Week of August 21st, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Market growth across different industries presents tremendous opportunities for businesses. But it can also bring a wide range of supply chain challenges that must be addressed to capitalize on that potential.   Let’s examine some recent industry news.  SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS OUR

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

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

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

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;

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

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

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

Supply Chain Moves: Week of June 12th, 2023

  Week of June 12th, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Automation is not new, but it continues to become a greater area of focus across all supply chain functions in nearly every industry.   Let’s examine some recent industry news.  SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS OUR PERSPECTIVE To learn more about dangerous goods software

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

Supply Chain Moves: Week of May 29th, 2023

  Week of May 29th, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Labor shortages continue to be a challenge across the supply chain. This has businesses looking to further automate their processes and optimize their existing workforce.   Let’s examine some recent industry news.  SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS OUR PERSPECTIVE To learn more about dangerous

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

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

Top 5 reasons to attend the 2023 Dangerous Goods Symposium

The Dangerous Goods Symposium is going to be live and in person once again – Wednesday and Thursday, September 6-7 in Chicago.   The DG Symposium is where the hazmat transport industry and the business community connect. This year’s event will feature two full days of domestic and international regulatory updates, a master class panel

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

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

DG Digest: PHMSA Lithium Battery Air Safety Committee to meet April 20th; OSHA submitted an ICR for its Highly Hazardous Chemical Safety Program

The first full week of April featured several significant religious holidays that many people observe, and as such, things were just a little quieter on the regulatory news scene. Here’s the latest: PHMSA The agency announced a meeting of the Lithium Battery Air Safety Advisory Committee for April 20th. This group is a stakeholder committee

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

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

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.

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.

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

DG Digest: FRA calls special meeting of its Rail Safety Advisory Committee (RSAC) to examine the train derailment in Ohio

Welcome to Daylight Savings Time! It’s “that” week again, so as HSE professionals, it’s our job to be alert for employees that may be suffering from the disjointed reaction to the change “Spring Forward” in particular can engender for some people. Let’s make sure that no one suffers and injury because they feel a little

Supply Chain Moves: Week of March 6, 2023

  Week of March 6th, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Technology innovation can be found across the supply chain. From new and emerging technologies to enhanced capabilities within traditional systems, these innovations are already making an impact.  Let’s examine some recent developments. SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS OUR PERSPECTIVE To learn more about

DG Digest: PHMSA publishes public meeting schedule in advance of ICAO and UNSCOE TDG sessions; and U.S. agencies publish semi-annual regulatory agendas.

The end of February is here, but the grind of winter weather hangs on for a while et. Much of the country is battling snow and cold. Grit your teeth and hang in there—warmer days are coming. Meanwhile, be sure that your workplace keeps on top of snow removal, ice treatments, and keeping employees that

Supply Chain Moves: Week of February 20th, 2023

  Week of February 20th, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Attention to safe and responsible supply chain practices has increased in recent years. Whether shipping lithium batteries, chemicals or some other dangerous good, it’s important to understand the risk and take steps to ensure compliance.   Let’s examine some recent developments in

DG Digest: Transport Canada has published an advisory regarding the upcoming phase-out deadlines for Class 111 tank cars used in flammable liquids service.

A short but “sweet” DG digest this week, with only one item—but this week also includes St. Valentine’s Day: a chance for a little “sweet” in one’s own life, perhaps. Be sure and do something fun to enjoy the day!  Here’s our rather abbreviated digest: Transport Canada The ministry published an advisory spelling out the

Supply Chain Moves: Week of February 6, 2023

  Week of February 6, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance The global electric vehicle (EV) market continues to grow, bringing with it supply chain challenges, especially when it comes to shipping the large format lithium batteries that power EVs. Let’s examine some recent developments in the EV battery market. SUPPLY CHAIN

Supply Chain Moves: Week of January 23rd, 2023

  Week of January 23rd, 2023 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Data has become one of the most important assets in the supply chain. An organization’s ability to access, analyze and use this information will be key in determining its success moving forward.  Let’s examine some recent ways the industry is leveraging

2022’s most important hazmat regulations—and a 2023 preview

Was 2022 a return to normal in the Dangerous Goods galaxy? By one measure, the answer is yes. For the first time since the global pandemic started in March 2020, a full year passed without any significant hazmat regulations relating to COVID-19. The world’s regulatory bodies have largely returned to their standard order of business—setting

Supply Chain Moves: Week of December 12, 2022

  Week of December 12th, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance As 2022 comes to an end, businesses in all industries are looking to the trends and challenges that will shape the new year – especially when it comes to the supply chain.  Let’s examine some recent industry news. SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS

DG Digest: New rules will have a significant impact on shippers using the USPS to ship dangerous goods.

Here we go right into December—the beginning of meteorological (vice astronomical) winter. Brrrrr! Cold and snow are now impacting much of the nation, so let’s all make sure we help our employees cope safely, with prompt snow and ice removal at our workplaces, careful attention to employees that have to work outside, and keeping an

Supply Chain Moves: Week of November 28th, 2022

  Week of November 28th, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Uncertainty around the supply chain remains a stressor for companies in almost every industry. From retail and pharma to commercial printers and tech companies, everyone is looking for ways to keep the supply chain moving.       Let’s examine some recent industry news.

DG Digest: The FRA announced a meeting of the Railroad Safety Advisory Committee regarding safety issues including the transport of hazardous materials

It’s Thanksgiving week. The Labelmaster family takes this time to wish you and your families a safe, happy, and enriching holiday. Watch out for all that holiday shopping traffic! Here’s this week’s rather limited regulatory news: EPA The agency published a supplemental proposed rulemaking that modifies and clarifies its initial NPRM regarding the implementation of

Labelmaster Traiing Decision Tree

Competency-based hazmat training: What you need to know for 2023

On January 1, 2023, new IATA provisions will come into effect that mandate a competency-based training and assessment (CBTA) approach for Dangerous Goods training. What is CBTA, and what does it mean for your operation? That’s why we’re here! Competency-based training has been a hot topic of conversation for several years in the hazmat shipping

Supply Chain Moves: Week of November 14th, 2022

  Week of November 14th, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Keeping goods moving safely, compliantly and on time — even when disruptions arise and demand surges — is imperative for businesses. That’s why so many are placing greater emphasis on supply chain resilience.       Let’s examine some recent industry news. SUPPLY CHAIN

DG Digest: PHMSA International Division holding meetings this week to discuss ICAO papers in advance of UN Subcommittee of Experts later this month

November is here and with it comes the acceleration of the approaching holiday season. Many employees will be starting to think about holiday gatherings, shopping, time away from work, and other things that may take their minds off safety. As HSE professionals, let’s all make sure we help our fellow employees enjoy a safe and

Supply Chain Moves: Week of October 31st, 2022

  Week of October 31st, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance The holidays are just around the corner and shippers, carriers and consumers all have their eyes on the supply chain and getting goods to shoppers.     Let’s examine some recent industry news. SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS This Black Friday Promises the Gift of

6 ways Capsuloc™ secondary hazmat containers can make your operation more efficient

No one really likes paint can-style secondary hazmat containers, but we’ve been putting up with them (and all their related headaches) for decades. Why? Because there hasn’t been a better alternative. Now there is. New Capsuloc™ finally gives Dangerous Goods shippers an alternative to the paint can, and lots of shippers are already kicking the

DG Digest: CVSA and Federal Inspectors cite 1,700 truckers for hazmat violations in June ‘blitz’.

Mid-October already—where does the time go? Hopefully, everyone is enjoying a pleasant fall season. As the cold weather begins, be sure your workplace is ready. Many businesses use this “not quite there yet” time to do things like make sure their snow removal vendors are contracted for the season, so if this impacts your operation,

Supply Chain Moves: Week of October 17th, 2022

  Week of October 17th, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Since the start of the pandemic, there has been a lot of talk about the “new normal.” As we head into 2023, there is greater discussion about what the global supply chain will look like moving forward.    Let’s examine some recent

DG Digest: FMCSA makes changes to agency rules, also corrects errors and removes obsolete references from its regulations.

Welcome to October! Not only is the fall season now rolling in; October is National Fire Prevention Month. Does your workplace have good suppression equipment, a solid emergency plan, and a well-trained employee team ready to deal with fire and fire prevention? This is the month to especially focus on and address these issues.  As

Supply Chain Moves: Week of October 3rd, 2022

  Week of October 3rd, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Ongoing global supply chain disruptions continue to put pressure on organizations, and executives have been vocal regarding the key challenges they face and their top priorities moving forward.   Let’s examine some recent industry news. SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS Dangerous Goods Transport Survey

DG Digest: PHMSA seeks fee increases to fund grant programs; FMCSA wants to require interstate CMVs to be equipped with electronic IDs.

The third week of September brought in the formal beginning of Autumn and was another busy one in the regulatory world. The FMCSA released a consequential new proposal for CMV identification technology, and PHMSA proposed a new fee revision. Let’s dig right in to all the action below: PHMSA The agency published an ANPRM to

Supply Chain Moves: Week of September 19th, 2022

  Week of September 19th, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Capacity constraints, potential labor strikes, port congestion and other supply chain disruptions have companies looking at alternative ways to ship their goods. But shifting transportation modes can be especially challenging for companies shipping hazmat. Let’s examine some recent industry news. SUPPLY

DG Digest: With federal mediation efforts underway, Class 1 Norfolk Southern (and other operators) face looming strike

Here we go, rolling into the last full official week of summer. Despite the advance of the calendar, however, much of the country, especially in the West, is still coping with high temperatures and fire danger. Be sure your workplace continues to monitor conditions and has the needed protocols in place to keep employees working

Supply Chain Moves: Week of September 5th, 2022

  Week of September 5th, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Even as organizations struggle to address current supply chain challenges, many are looking ahead at the technologies and strategies they need to implement now to be successful in the future.   Let’s examine some recent industry news. SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS Future-Proof Your

DG Digest: PHMSA publishes 49 CFR correction, FMCSA releases draft Medical Examiner’s Handbook, and OSHA extends comment period on lead exposures

Summer continues its ebb as we enter the last full week of August.  Many colleges and universities are going back into session or have students reporting back this week, so if you live in a “college town,” be sure you keep an eye open for the increased activity and traffic that comes with it. Here’s

Supply Chain Moves: Week of August 22nd, 2022

  Week of August 22nd, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) activity continues to be hot throughout retail, manufacturing, logistics and other industries. This can have a tremendous impact on how businesses manage their supply chains.  Let’s examine some recent industry news. SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS ABB Set to

DG Digest: As the EPA charts its progress towards ‘100% electronic manifests,’ the advisory board will meet virtually this fall

Mid-August already—where does summer go? Nevertheless, we still have several weeks of hot weather and staffing absences to deal with as vacations continue and some of summer’s hottest weather still is on the calendar.  Let’s keep those safety plans rolling and make sure our employees finish the summer in proper form. It wasn’t a super busy

Supply Chain Moves: Week of August 8th, 2022

  Week of August 8th, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance As supply chains, along with the goods being shipped, continue to evolve, companies are placing even greater focus on using more innovative packaging solutions.   Let’s examine some recent industry news. SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS Three Ways Smart Packaging is Solving Pharma’s Distribution Challenges:

Supply Chain Moves: Week of July 25th, 2022

  Week of July 25th, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Ongoing issues have made the supply chain top of mind for organizations in nearly every industry as CEOs and other senior leaders now recognize the impact it has on their overall business. Let’s examine some recent industry news. SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS

Supply Chain Moves: Week of July 11th, 2022

  Week of July 11th, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance The future of the supply chain is intertwined with the evolution of technology. And technology innovations and continue to emerge across all areas of the supply chain. Let’s examine some recent industry news. SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS How Technology has Evolved in

How to solve large format lithium battery transport problems before they become problems

Organizations that are successful over the long term generally have one thing in common—they solve problems before they become problems. We see this in the supply chain every day. Disruptions happen. Companies that are prepared to handle those disruptions come out ahead of those that aren’t prepared—and the difference usually comes down to planning for

Supply Chain Moves: Week of June 13th, 2022

  Week of June 13th, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Achieving greater supply chain visibility has been a focus across the industry for years. In the face of growing disruptions, material shortages, shipping costs and customer demands, businesses must take an even closer look into the specific areas of the supply

DG Digest: PHMSA extends comment period on converting historic letters of interpretation into FAQs on its website

Mid-June rolls in with Hurricane season beginning to ramp up. This can produce severe storms in affected regions, and flooding rains even in areas far from the storm zone itself. Be sure your business has severe weather plans to prepare the response needed!  Meanwhile, it was a usual week in the regulatory world, with several

Shipping lithium battery devices or other hazmat via USPS? These new rules are effective immediately.

The U.S. Postal Service has announced new final rules, effective immediately, that significantly impact the shipping of lithium batteries and other hazardous materials by mail. USPS cites “a consistent and alarming rise in incidents involving mailed packages of both lithium batteries and other hazmat, including … unlabeled or improperly labeled air-ineligible hazmat being accepted for

DG Digest: USPS final rule revises ‘Pub 52,’ requiring mailers separate ‘hazmat’ into identifiable containers

June kicks off the summer vacation season for many people.  As HSE professionals it’s important for us to help our fellow employees deal with the “short staffing” that sometimes occurs as vacation times impact workplace operations. Let’s make sure that we remind our colleagues not to cut corners on safety and normal precautions to keep

Supply Chain Moves: Week of May 30, 2022

  Week of May 30, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Inflation, surging diesel prices, high shipping costs and more are impacting businesses around the world, including those shipping dangerous goods. Let’s examine some recent industry news. SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS Five Strategies for Dealing with Rising Supply Chain Costs: In an inflationary

Supply Chain Moves: Week of May 16, 2022

  Week of May 16, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Navigating compounding supply chain risks has become the new normal. Even so, there are several new potential disruptors on the horizon with the potential to shake up operations for many companies. Let’s examine some recent industry news. SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS Port

DG Digest: PHMSA published final rule that its employees can refer relevant potential criminal acts to DOT Inspector General

Here we are in Mid-May already!  Where does the time go? Hopefully everyone is enjoying the warming spring weather and looking forward to the coming summer season. As HSE professionals, remember that it’s our job to have a solid heat plan in effect to help protect our fellow employees from any heat-related illnesses.  It will

Key regulations to know for shipping large format lithium batteries

Compliantly shipping lithium-ion batteries of any size means navigating a complex set of regulations. And, generally speaking, the bigger the batteries get, the more challenging they are to transport compliantly. When you’re moving large format lithium-ion batteries—like the ones for electric vehicles, solar power storage, data centers and other heavy-duty purposes—you have to consider a

Supply Chain Moves: Week of May 2, 2022

  Week of May 2, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Demand for pharmaceutical goods continues to increase, even as businesses are forced to navigate ongoing supply chain challenges.  Let’s examine some recent industry news. SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS Automation to Drive the Innovative Pharmaceutical Industry Forward: With the growing challenges facing the

4 Secrets of Compliant Dangerous Goods Shippers

By Katy Schroedl, ProShip, Inc.: With hazardous material shipments accounting for roughly 20% of the total volume of all shipments, Dangerous Goods (DG) shippers recognize the value in these shipments. While DG shipments can seem to be a complex and restrictive subset of the supply chain, they are a necessary challenge for so many brands

Supply Chain Moves: Week of April 18, 2022

  Week of April 18, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance Supply chain issues continue to be a major challenge for businesses across most industries. Along with those problems comes an increased focus on solutions – from automation and collaboration to inventory management and transportation mode shifts.  Let’s examine some recent industry

DG Digest: FMCSA seeks to add ‘Safe Driver Apprentice Program’ training for CDL drivers

It’s mid-April already!  Hopefully, everyone had an opportunity to enjoy the holiday weekend.  Let’s hope that April showers are busy bring spring flowers to us in May. Meanwhile, it was a pretty quiet regulatory week. Here’s the latest news: PHMSA The agency published its latest set of special permit actions, covering what one might call the “usual

Don’t design your large format lithium battery crate until you answer these 5 questions 

If you’re transporting large format lithium batteries—like the ones for electric vehicles, solar power storage, data centers and other heavy-duty purposes—you’re going to need a large packaging solution.  But if you start focusing on your packaging solution without doing the necessary intelligence work first, you could set yourself back weeks, or even months. Not to

Supply Chain Moves: Week of April 4, 2022

  Week of April 4, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance It’s both an exciting and challenging time in the automotive industry as businesses are driving innovation forward while dealing with parts shortages and supply chain challenges.   Let’s examine some recent industry news. SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS Auto Suppliers Call for Dialogue

DG Digest: OSHA proposal would require some employers electronically submit injury and illness information to the agency

Regulatorily speaking, March goes out a bit like the proverbial lamb, with a quiet week featuring little in the way of fresh news. Sometimes it’s good to have a break! Meanwhile, April is here with improving Spring weather, so hopefully our readers will all have a chance to enjoy a little more time outside with warming days

Supply Chain Moves: Week of March 21, 2022

  Week of March 21, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance In recent years, many conversations and headlines around the supply chain have also included the term “shortage.” From drivers to shipping containers and truck drivers to cardboard boxes and labels, supply chain-related shortages continue to impact businesses across a wide range

For Women’s History Month: Women in the supply chain—past, present and future

Would today’s supply chain run more smoothly if we had more women in charge? The last couple of years may have been the most stressful period the modern supply chain has ever seen. Between the ongoing pandemic, the explosion of eCommerce, maritime misadventures, raw material shortages, labor shortages and other disruptions, it’s never been more

DG Digest: FMCSA amends rule that CMV drivers submit list of traffic convictions annually to their employers

The coming week features St. Patrick’s Day!  For most people it’s a chance for fun and a commemoration of our nation’s rich Irish cultural heritage. Be sure to celebrate safely! Here’s last week’s regulatory news: PHMSA The agency issued a new set of Special Permit actions last week. See the actions here: 2022-04944.pdf (govinfo.gov) 2022-04947.pdf (govinfo.gov) 2022-04948.pdf (govinfo.gov)

Supply Chain Moves: Week of March 7, 2022

  Week of March 7, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance The push towards greater automation and transparency within the supply chain has brought with it an increased focus on integration – between systems and partners. Let’s examine some recent industry news. SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS Supply Chain Integration Issues Costing 38% of

DG Digest: U.S. EPA proposes revised emission limits for facilities involved with lead acid battery manufacturing

It’s the last day of February—March rolls in tomorrow with its promise of the coming Spring.  I’m sure all of us are ready after another winter battling the pandemic and now with the very troubled international situation taking shape in Europe.  Let us all hope for better times soon. It was a quiet regulatory week; here’s

Labelmaster Supply Chain Moves

Supply Chain Moves: Week of February 21, 2022

  Week of February 21, 2022 Linking supply chain news with dangerous goods compliance The supply chain has become increasingly data-driven. Whether it’s improving visibility, identifying trends, driving automation or another business benefit, data is at the core of today’s supply chain strategies and technologies. Let’s examine some recent industry news. SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS Operationalizing

DG Digest: IAEA Considering Radioactive Materials Transport Revisions, Could Impact 49 CFR and Other Modal Regulations

Winter rolls on.  It’s the third week of February and if you’re like most folks, you’re pretty probably tired of the damp, dark, and cold.  Hang in there!  This too shall pass.  Meanwhile, bear down and keep focusing on those winter safety plans.  It’s easy for many employees to start paying less attention to things