Perform successful DOT inspections

Only registered inspectors can qualify hazardous materials cargo tanks. (Photo by LP Gas staff)

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) enforce the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) for U.S. DOT specification cargo tank motor vehicles (CTMVs), including CTMVs that transport propane.

The HMR requires a cargo tank may not be filled and offered for transportation or transported until a qualified inspector successfully completes a test or inspection on the timeline specified in the HMR.

Each specification cargo tank must be tested and inspected as specified in § 180.407(c) by an inspector meeting the qualifications prescribed in § 180.409 (Minimum qualifications for inspectors and testers). Section 180.409 requires that any person performing or witnessing the inspections and tests must have the training and experience required to meet the definition of a “Registered Inspector,” as provided in § 171.8 of the HMR.

As defined in § 171.8, a “Registered Inspector” is a person registered with DOT in accordance with subpart F of part 107 who has the knowledge and ability to determine whether a cargo tank conforms to the applicable DOT specification.

A “Registered Inspector” meets the knowledge and ability requirements in one of the following ways:

1. Has an engineering degree and one year of work experience relating to the testing and inspection of cargo tanks.
2. Has an associate degree in engineering and two years of work experience relating to the testing and inspection of cargo tanks.
3. Has a high school diploma (or GED diploma) and three years of work experience relating to the testing and inspection of cargo tanks.
4. Has at least three years’ experience performing the duties of a “Registered Inspector” prior to Sept. 1, 1991.

What makes a Top Propane Retailer?

“Volume is one component, but the percent of updated regulators and pressure-tested systems is important. Is the dealer keeping their customers’ safety needs in mind, versus are they just trying to sell gallons? I think it is important to be fully servicing the customers you have, instead of just trying to find new customers for the sake of volume.”
–Brent Rud, President, Curtis Rud Oil Co.