Safety is paramount to everything we do at Hudson Technologies. To keep our stakeholders informed about the latest industry updates, please read our summary of the latest U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announcement. To see the full announcement you can visit their website, here.
In Summary:
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has made the public aware of unauthorized recovery cylinders containing hazardous gas, which could cause significant damage to property, physical injury, or death. Take caution when purchasing recovery cylinders from dealers and always purchase through an authorized dealer.
Unlike cylinders manufactured to DOT specification or UN standards, these cylinders are not designed to contain and safely transport hazardous materials. PHMSA has determined that these cylinders are primarily manufactured by non-U.S. companies. The non-U.S. manufacturers selling these non-specification cylinders have not marked or certified them as suitable for hazardous materials service, which would be a violation of the HMR. Without sufficient evidence to show a violation of the HMR, PHMSA cannot take enforcement action. In addition to the inherent safety risks, filling unauthorized cylinders is punishable by civil penalty and/or criminal prosecution. (See 49 CFR 107.307.)
Cylinders that do not comply with the HMR requirements as indicated by a “DOT” or other authorized certification marking may not be used to transport compressed gases or any other hazardous material in commerce. See 49 CFR 180.3(b)(1). If an unauthorized cylinder has been purchased but not filled, the owner should return the empty cylinder to its point of sale. If an unauthorized cylinder has been purchased and filled, the owner should enlist the assistance of a licensed and trained HVAC technician to dispose of the cylinder.
How to Identify Unsafe Cylinders:
– Look for DOT or UN markings on the cylinder
– Only purchase from authorized dealers
– Research the place of purchase and reviews before buying. Review the item specification or description, or seller feedback for an indication of compliance with DOT regulations.
49 CFR Parts 171-180, available here.
Note: All recovery cylinders provided by Hudson meet DOT standards
If you have any questions about this announcement, speak with your account manager or give us a call at 800-297-3490.
