Arlington, VA...In comments filed with the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, American Trucking Associations asked the agency to withdraw its proposal to regulate the loading and unloading of hazardous materials in order to conduct needed research.

 "ATA supports PHMSA's efforts to reduce loading and unloading incidents," ATA Vice President Richard Moskowitz wrote in comments to the agency. "However we cannot support the proposed rule as written on the grounds that it will frustrate motor carriers' ability to comply with the hazardous materials regulations, makes it unlikely that drivers will be properly trained and its costs will far exceed its benefits."

 Moskowitz told the agency that the goals of the proposal "could be best achieved through standardized regulations applicable to loading and unloading for carriers and by requiring facility operators to address and remain responsible for managing unique conditions at their facility."

  "PHMSA should withdraw the proposed rule and begin an evaluation of regulatory requirements to address the specific causes of loading and unloading incidents," Moskowitz concluded.