Transportation regulation update

THE NEW YEAR brings into fo- I cus regulations recently adopted by the IRS, the Federal Highway Administration and Department of Iransportation affecting those who use motor vehicles in their businesses and/or employ drivers. The following capsule explanations give brief summaries of rulings possibly applying to dealers. They are only intended to indicate areas which should be investigated further.

Truck drivers under age 2l can not be used to deliver material across the state line since this is considered interstate commerce, subject to federal regulations. Dealers with a trading area extending into neighboring states should keep this in mind when hirine drivers.

Owners/operators of petroleum underground storage tanks are now required to demonstrate financial responsibility for the costs of corrective action and compensation of third parties resulting from the release of petroleum products lrom USTs. The intent is to insure that those responsible promptly clean up leaks and compensate those damaged by any release.

In many jurisdictions, a truck owner can be held liable for an accidenl if he permits a person with a poor driving record to operate the vehicle. Evaluation of driving records is an important part of the driver selection process.

It is recommended that driving records lrom each state in which the applicant holds a license or permit be investigated for at least the prior three years. A copy of each state's response should be retained in the driver's employment file. In addition, when former employers are conlacted as references, a record of the date contacted, name and address of the person reached and comments should be included in the driver's file.

Three or more accidents and/or minor violations or one or more major violations within the past three years should make a driver unacceptable. Major violations include driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, a violation resulting in death. refusing to take an alcohol test, leaving the scene ofan accident, any license revocation or suspension, driving 25 mph or more over the posled speed limit, driving while a license is revoked or suspended, evading arrest.

A commercial vehicle with a gross vehicle rating of 10,000 pounds or greater crossing state lines must be identified on both sides with the name or trade name of the motor carrier; the city or community and state where the carrier business or vehicle is based: the molor carrier identification number preceded by ..USDOT.''

Capsule explanations of recent regulations affecting trucks and drivers...financial responsibility ruling for UST owners ...lRS deductions.

If the owner and operator are two separate people, only one is required to demonstrate financial responsibility, but if neither meet the requirements, both will be held responsible. The regulation will take effect on Jan. 24 for non-petroleum marketing firms with USTs and a tangible net worth of $20 million or more. Firms with a net worth less than $20 million must comply by Oct.26. 1990.

Each state will be responsible for implementing the regulations. More infbrmation is available from the EPA RCRA Hotline. (800) 424-9346.

Flat mileage charges are allowed by the IRS as deductions for business use of cars. For 1988 this amount has been raised to 244 a mile for the first 15,000 miles. This is an increase from the previous 22.5t per mile.

If the vehicle carries the name of a company other than the operating carrier, the name of the operating carrier and its location must be preceded by the words "operated by." These markings must be readily legible at a distance of 50 feet during daylight hours while the vehicle is stationary. Magnetic or removable identification devices are allowed if they meet all requirements.

Off road users of diesel luel now qualify for tax exemption when they make bulk purchases following IRS procedures. They are eligible to file a refund claim for any tax paid after March 31. 1988.

IJUNDREDS of millions of dolI llars are lost each year through improper materials handling. Whether it is damage of product, accidents with equipment or personal injuries, the financial losses to a dealer can be staggering. When losses can be avoided, you create a savings for your company.

Productivity is directly related to the safe, efficient moyement of goods which can be achieved by lift truck operators following safety guidelines. Operators who exercise safety on the job are more efficient drivers. They perform their materials handling work without waste or accidents.

Since lumber is often unloaded from a railway car, it is important that operators of lift trucks observe the "rules of the railway" to ensure safety during materials handling transit.

The following procedures developed by Hyster Co. can serve as a company policy for safe and practical operation oflift trucks in boxcars.

The operator should always begin each shift with a thorough check of the equipment to spot any maintenance problems.

Carefully check the condition of the boxcar floor for weak spots. The car should be free of dirt or debris. Also, inspect the sidewalls and car rooffor projecting nails, loose boards that could puncture or snag packaged materials.

Use proper handling devices to set and remove the bridgeplate. The bridgeplate needs to be strong and sturdy enough to support you, the load, and the lift truck.

To prevent the railcar from moving while you are inside, make sure the wheels are blocked and a blue flag is displayed. The blue flag is a signal to train crews that the car should not be moved. Remove the blue flag and wheel blocks when finished.

Another safety precaution, make sure the switch warning lights and rails are properly positioned to prevent a train crew from coupling to the car.

Approach railroad tracks with caution. Stop completely and look both ways before proceeding. Cross