MDI Transportation Guidelines - Polyurethanes - American ...

MDI transportation
g u i d e l i n e s
Chapter 8: Transport of MDI by Rail
8.1 Responsibilities of Rail Carrier
Rail carriers are responsible for the safe transport by rail from dispatch siding to final reception siding.
See 49 CFR Part 174. The selection of the routes, intermediate stopping locations, and cessation of traffic
because of severe weather conditions are matters to be decided by the railway authorities, and should be
reported to the shipper.
8.2 Emergency Intervention
The relevant federal, state or local authorities may intervene in the event of a transport emergency involving
rail tank cars containing MDI. Shippers must provide rail tank carriers with the appropriate emergency
response information, along with a 24-hour contact number. See 49 CFR §§ 172.600-604.
8.3 Inter-modal Movements
Where inter-modal (i.e., road/rail/road) movements are arranged that are not driver/tractor accompanied
during the rail stage, particular attention must be given to ensuring that the motor carrier leg of the journey
has the appropriate shipping and emergency response information.
Copyright 2001, American Plastics Council
23