Transportation

Washington – A Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration notice published Sept. 26 proposes to expand the agency’s definition of what constitutes a “tank vehicle” by incorporating guidance released in 2012.

New York – A new study from Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health concluded that drivers who test positive for drugs were 3 times as likely as those who test negative to be involved in a fatal crash.

Arlington, VA – Truck drivers and carriers can participate in a confidential survey to discuss how new hours-of-service regulations have affected their operations.

Washington – The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration on Oct. 1 issued an omnibus final rule that formally adopts a variety of regulatory provisions mandated by MAP-21, a 2012 surface transportation funding bill.

Washington – Dog bites, falls and vehicle collisions were the leading causes of injuries among U.S. Postal Service employees in 2012, according to a Government Accountability Office report released Sept. 26.

Arlington, VA – The National Sleep Foundation, which advocates research and treatment of sleep disorders, has come out against a Senate bill (S. 1537) that could prevent or delay new requirements for mandatory screening of truck and bus drivers to detect obstructive sleep apnea.

Albany, NY – As part of ongoing efforts to combat distracted driving, New York state has established “texting zones” on major highways for motorists to park and use their cell phone.

Washington – Cutting the budgets of government safety agencies could lead to more unsafe workplaces, more injuries and higher costs for businesses, according to a new report from the Center for Effective Government.

Chicago – Motor vehicle incidents are the leading cause of worker fatalities, and NIOSH Director John Howard said it is time to “unravel” the excuses and contributing factors that allow the trend to continue.

Washington – A Sept. 24 proposed rule from the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration would prohibit hazardous materials carriers and associated companies from further operations if they do not pay civil penalties for violations within 90 days.