Petroleum haulers seek rest break exemption

The National Tank Truck Carriers (NTTC) asked FMCSA for an exemption that would allow drivers of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) transporting petroleum-based fuels to satisfy the 30-minute rest break requirement by counting the time required to attend the load. NTTC notes that most drivers who haul petroleum operate under the 100 air-mile exception and are exempt from the 30-minute rest break mandate. However, on the occasions when drivers do not qualify for the exception, the requirement is problematic because petroleum shipments are hazardous materials (HM) loads and must be attended at all times, NTTC said. The association asked that time attending to loads count toward the 30-minute rest break requirement provided that the only work performed during that time is attending the load. Comments are due October 26. For the Federal Register notice, visit https://www.federalregister.gov/d/2017-20525.