iTECH: Hazmat Haulers - On Being Prepared

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img src="/sites/default/files/images/articles/iTECHlogo.gif" width=119 align=right>A tractor-trailer hauling toxic material proceeds along a major interstate within close proximity of a residential area. Its driver, unknown to the dispatcher — and for reasons unknown — is suddenly incapacitated. An onboard computer generates an alert message notifying the dispatcher, key trucking company personnel and authorities of a dangerous situation warranting immediate attention.

This scenario illustrates the manner in which industry players are utilizing onboard monitoring and communications systems, along with a service called the Hazmat Tracking Center, to try to minimize the risks of hazmat transport.

The Hazmat Tracking Center is an offshoot of Spill Center, Hudson, Mass., an environmental claims management company serving the transportation, chemical and insurance sectors. The Hazmat Center tracks the patterns of hazmat shipments. The company says about 850 hazmat haulers use its service.

For the full story, see the January/February Issue of iTECH, which appeared as a supplement in the Jan. 13 print edition of Transport Topics. Subscribe today.