Tank Carriers Challenge Tape Rule

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A new rule requiring trailers manufactured before 1993 to be retrofitted with reflective tape or paint is being challenged by the National Tank Truck Carriers.

The group says the rule issued by the Federal Highway Administration March 31 did not take into account the nature of the tanker industry and the difficulties tanker operators will have in completing the retrofit within the two-year limit set by the agency.

Tankers generally are used in operations that result in an accumulation of dirt and residue on the outside of the tank, which would make it difficult to clean and prepare for installing the conspicuity material. In many cases, the tanks would have be drained and cleaned internally before the retrofitting can take place, the association said.

The request for consideration was filed April 30 by the American Trucking Associations Litigation Center on behalf of the conference.