Harmonization With the United Nations Recommendations, International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code, and International Civil Aviation Organization's Technical Instructions

Summary: RSPA proposes to amend the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) to maintain alignment with international standards by incorporating various changes to proper shipping names, hazard classes, packing groups, special provisions, packaging authorizations, air transport quantity limitations and vessel stowage requirements. In addition, RSPA proposes to revise the requirements for intermediate bulk containers and UN portable tanks for alignment with international requirements. Because of recent changes to the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code), the International Civil Aviation Organization's Technical Instructions for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air (ICAO Technical Instructions), and the United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods (UN Recommendations), these proposed revisions are necessary to facilitate the transport of hazardous materials in international commerce.