A driver is transporting a shipment of Class 7 (Radioactive) materials that are in Type B packaging, with a total Transport Index of 15. Which of the following statements about routing is correct?
- AThis shipment can be transported on any highway route, provided the vehicle is placarded.
- BThis shipment requires a written route plan but does not need to follow specific state-designated routes.
- CThis shipment is forbidden from highway transport due to the high Transport Index.
- DThis shipment must be transported only on routes designated by the state for radioactive materials (HM-164 routes).
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. This shipment must be transported only on routes designated by the state for radioactive materials (HM-164 routes).
Shipments of highway route controlled quantity (HRCQ) radioactive materials, which include Type B or C packages with a Transport Index greater than 10, must be transported on routes designated by the state for radioactive materials (often referred to as HM-164 routes). This ensures the safest possible route for such high-hazard shipments.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This is incorrect. A Transport Index of 15 means this is a highway route controlled quantity (HRCQ) radioactive material, which requires specific designated routes, not just any highway.
- B. This is incorrect. While a written route plan is often part of the preparation for such shipments, the core requirement is to follow the actual state-designated routes for HRCQ radioactive materials, not just any route with a plan.
- C. This is incorrect. While highly regulated, these shipments are not forbidden from highway transport. They require specific routing and controls.
Routing for Highway Route Controlled Quantity (HRCQ) Radioactive Materials
Highway Route Controlled Quantity (HRCQ) radioactive materials, such as Type B or C packages with a Transport Index over 10, must be transported exclusively on state-designated routes for radioactive materials.
- HRCQ defined in 49 CFR 173.403.
- Requires use of 'preferred routes' or 'HM-164 routes'.
- Includes Type B/C packages with Transport Index > 10, or certain quantities of fissile material.
- Driver must follow written route plan and avoid non-designated routes.
Memory trick: Some hazmats are VIPs; they get their own special, pre-approved highway lane.