Amidst the ongoing disaster in Hawaii, a crucial emergency waiver order has been issued for carriers responsible for transporting hazardous materials. On Aug. 14, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) took swift action by issuing this order pertaining to qualifying carriers operating in the state.
Tragically, the devastating wildfires that originated on Aug. 8 have already claimed the lives of at least 111 individuals, marking this as the deadliest U.S. wildfire in over a century.
In light of these alarming circumstances, ensuring the safety and well-being of both the carriers and the community they serve is vital. This emergency waiver order is crucial in mitigating potential hazards and protecting lives during this critical time.
“Given the continuing impacts caused by the Hawaii wildfires, PHMSA’s Associate Administrator has determined that regulatory relief is in the public interest and necessary to ensure the safe transportation in commerce of hazardous material while the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and United States Coast Guard (USCG) execute their recovery and cleanup efforts in the State of Hawaii,” the order states.
The waivers issued to those conducting operations within the emergency areas mean that non-radioactive hazardous materials can be transported to staging areas within 50 miles, with alternative safety requirements enforced by the EPA and USGC.
This emergency waiver will be in effect for 60 days, allowing for an efficient and swift response to the disaster.
Furthermore, President Joe Biden has declared a major disaster, unleashing federal funding to provide assistance for those affected by the wildfires in Hawaii.
“Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster,” the White House said in a statement.
Federal funds are now being offered to state and local governments and specific private non-profit organizations. These funds are intended to cover debris removal costs and emergency protective measures in both Maui County and Hawaii County.
Source: Land Line
