A DOT hazmat security plan addresses transportation security risks for operations covered by 49 CFR 172.800. Its required components include personnel security, unauthorized access and en route security under 172.802(a)–(b). It is separate from everyday operating procedures. Check applicability for your own materials and operation before choosing a plan, then use the existing security-plan intake for the company details needed to prepare the document.
Prepare your company document
- Confirm applicability under 49 CFR 172.800 using the materials and quantities your company offers or transports.
- Gather the plant, trucks, routes, hiring practices and access controls needed for the written risk assessment. Do not publish sensitive plan details.
- Name the responsible senior manager and document security duties. Have the designated reviewer check the completed plan against 49 CFR 172.802.
- Provide required training, retain training records and track the annual review. Communicate plan changes to affected employees.
For propane, the Division 2.1 provision in 172.800(b)(3) applies to a large bulk quantity. The definition is more than 3,000 liters (792 gallons) in one packaging. Assess the quantity offered or transported, rather than tank capacity alone. See the applicability answer for the next check.
Questions and answers
What does a DOT hazmat security plan cover for a propane dealer?
A DOT hazmat security plan addresses transportation security risks for operations covered by 49 CFR 172.800. Its required components include personnel security, unauthorized access and en route security under 172.802(a)–(b). It is separate from everyday operating procedures. Check applicability for your own materials and operation before choosing a plan, then use the existing security-plan intake for the company details needed to prepare the document.
What must the written plan include?
Under 49 CFR 172.802, it includes an operation-specific security-risk assessment and measures for personnel security, unauthorized access and en route security. It also identifies the responsible senior manager, security duties and employee notification and training processes.
How often must the plan be reviewed?
Review it at least annually and update it as necessary under 172.802(c). When updated, make the current copy available to responsible employees and instruct affected employees about changes.
Does buying a plan complete employee training?
No. Under 49 CFR 172.704, hazmat employees need security awareness training; hazmat employees who handle materials covered by a required plan, perform related regulated functions or implement the plan also need in-depth security training. Recurrent training is due at least every three years; plan revisions trigger in-depth training within 90 days of implementation. Keep the required employee training records.
Next step
Read the DOT Hazmat Security Plan product page for the intake and included training pages. For help starting the intake, contact Propane Safety Pro.
See who owns the plan and the separate Policies and Procedures manual.
General information, not legal advice. A purchased manual does not certify compliance. Confirm requirements for your operation with your designated safety reviewer.