Published in the Federal Register on April 21, FMCSA’s decision reaffirms an exemption for K&L Trucking. This exemption enables the company to use an alternative method to secure large metal coils to its trailers, deviating from the securement rules outlined in federal regulations.

Current Cargo Securement Rules

Under current federal regulations, metal coils weighing over 5,000 pounds and transported with eyes crosswise must adhere to strict securement measures. These rules dictate that the coil be supported off the trailer deck and prevented from rolling. Additionally, at least two tiedowns must secure the coil through its eye to restrict forward and rearward motion.

K&L Trucking’s Initial Exemption

In 2020, K&L Trucking, a company based in Delta, Ohio, was granted a five-year exemption. This allowed them to secure metal coils using a single, two-ply nylon-Kevlar strap. The strap connected the coils to a custom-built metal carrier installed on their trucks’ trailer beds.

According to K&L’s original exemption request, its operations involve transporting metal coils less than two miles away, at speeds that do not exceed 30 mph.

“K&L’s trucks never travel faster than 30 miles per hour on the road, as the drive is simply too short for the trucks to accelerate to a higher speed,” the company explained in 2020. They also noted that the extra weight of the carriers made them unsuitable for long-distance hauls, but ideal for short distances, enhancing safety for both workers and the public.

FMCSA initially approved the exemption on December 4, 2020, granting K&L a five-year period to continue using this alternative securement setup.

Expanded Renewal of the Exemption

Building on the success of its initial exemption, K&L Trucking applied in 2024 for an extension and expansion of the exemption for another five years. The updated exemption will now apply to all K&L drivers operating commercial vehicles and extends the transport radius to less than four miles between pickup and delivery locations.

FMCSA approved the renewal, citing safety as a key factor in the decision. The agency noted that there was no evidence to suggest that the original exemption reduced road safety.

For K&L Trucking, the renewal represents an opportunity to build on their efficient, safety-conscious transport system while continuing to tailor their operations to the unique demands of moving heavy metal coils over short distances.

Source: Land Line

The post Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Renews Cargo Securement Exemption appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

This proposal stems from the drug testing procedures rule that went into effect on June 1, 2023. The update was introduced to address compliance challenges tied to the implementation of oral fluid testing.

The DOT explained that its goal is to resolve “unforeseen circumstances rendering it impossible to comply with requirements” outlined in its previously finalized rule allowing oral fluid drug tests. Last month, the department had already issued an amended rule addressing other complications identified in the 2023 guidelines.

Background on the Drug-Testing Rule

By regulation, some drug testing scenarios mandate a directly observed collection. These include instances in which the original sample was invalid without medical justification or during “return-to-duty” testing.

The 2023 final rule specified that oral fluid tests should be used in certain situations where directly observed collections were necessary. However, oral fluid testing has faced delays due to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) not certifying sufficient facilities to perform these tests. According to protocol, no oral fluid drug tests can take place until HHS approves at least two laboratories—one primary lab and one for split specimen analysis.

Temporary Solution Proposed by the DOT

Given the unavailability of oral fluid testing, the DOT has outlined a temporary measure requiring directly observed urine collections for scenarios where oral testing is mandated.

“We intend this provision to require directly observed urine tests in situations where an oral fluid collection is required, but is not yet available,” the DOT clarified. The department emphasized that this amendment is meant to be “a temporary, short-term solution because there are currently no certified oral fluid laboratories.”

Sunset Clause for the Interim Rule

The DOT’s proposal includes a sunset clause. The temporary provision will expire one year after HHS announces in the Federal Register that it has certified the second oral fluid drug testing lab. The DOT will release its own Federal Register notice with the specific certification date once HHS confirms the lab meets requirements.

Conditions for Oral Fluid Testing During the Interim Period

During the interim period, if an oral fluid collection becomes feasible—such as when at least two labs have received certification, and both qualified collectors and conforming collection devices are available at a site—oral fluid testing must be conducted instead of urine collection.

Public Comment Period

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is actively seeking public comments on the proposed rule. Feedback will be accepted until January 8, 2025. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide input during this period.

For more information or to submit a comment, visit the FMCSA’s website.

Source: Commercial Carrier Journal

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