Search Results for keywords:"safety standards"

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has published a notice inviting public comments on renewing an information collection related to commercial space transportation licensing regulations. The information collected will help assess whether proposals for commercial space launches comply with safety and regulatory standards. Comments can be submitted by March 15, 2021, through various channels, including an electronic docket or mail. The process is part of the renewal of efforts to ensure that space launch activities meet legal and safety requirements under U.S. regulations.

Transamerica Tire Co. Ltd. discovered that some Transeagle ST tires made by Shandong Yinbao Tyre were mislabeled with an extra character in their Tire Identification Number (TIN), making it noncompliant with safety standards. However, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) decided that this labeling error does not affect the tires' safety or performance. As a result, Transamerica doesn't need to notify owners or provide a remedy for this issue. NHTSA granted an exemption because the tires otherwise meet all performance requirements, and the error doesn't compromise safety during a recall.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) proposes a voluntary program called the ADS-equipped Vehicle Safety, Transparency, and Evaluation Program (AV STEP) for vehicles with automated driving systems (ADS). The program aims to review and oversee these vehicles, focusing on safety and public transparency. Participants can apply to perform specific operations or seek exemptions from certain safety standards. The program is designed to help NHTSA monitor the safe development of ADS while collecting data that could inform future safety standards.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued special conditions for the Airbus Helicopters Model EC175B helicopter, which features a new 30-minute all engines operating (AEO) power rating for use in search and rescue missions. This power rating allows hovering at increased power for up to 30 minutes, which current airworthiness regulations do not adequately address. To ensure safety, the FAA requires evaluations of cooling effects, monitoring of power usage via cockpit instruments, and specific power limitations. Comments on these special conditions can be submitted to the FAA by June 2, 2025.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is seeking public comments on a revised safety standard for stationary activity centers, originally referenced by the ASTM F2012-18ε1 standard. The new standard, ASTM F2012-2024, has been updated by ASTM, and CPSC is evaluating its impact on product safety. The public has until February 4, 2025, to submit their comments. The revision and its potential to improve safety are being assessed under the guidelines of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008.

Signal Peak Energy, LLC has submitted a petition to the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) requesting a change to existing safety standards at Bull Mountains Mine No. 1 in Montana. They want to use Dräger X-plore 8700 Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) instead of the current equipment, claiming this new model offers better performance and safety. Although these devices are not directly approved by MSHA, they are certified as safe for use in facilities with explosive gases and dust. Signal Peak Energy has detailed safety measures and training requirements to ensure the equipment keeps miners protected.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has received a request from James D. Welch for an exemption from the requirement for Air Reserve Technicians (ARTs) to obtain a commercial driver's license (CDL) when operating commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) for military purposes. While there is already an exception that applies to certain military drivers, it does not currently cover U.S. Reserve technicians like ARTs. Welch argues that obtaining a CDL places a burden on ARTs and the Air Force Reserve Command due to training costs. FMCSA is asking the public to comment on whether this exemption should apply to all U.S. Reserve technicians and to provide feedback by February 12, 2025.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is inviting public comments about its plan to renew the collection of information related to aerial navigation aids and other electrical/electronic facilities. These facilities are operated by non-federal sponsors like state and local governments or private businesses, and the collected information ensures they meet FAA safety standards. The FAA is not changing how they collect this information, just renewing their legal authority to do so. Comments can be submitted until April 7, 2025, and will help the FAA assess the necessity and accuracy of this information collection.

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has renewed exemptions for seven drivers who have epilepsy or seizure disorders, allowing them to continue driving commercial motor vehicles across state lines. These exemptions, effective from August 31, 2024, to August 31, 2026, were granted after the FMCSA determined that they would maintain or exceed safety standards for drivers. Despite public invitations for comments, no feedback was received during the review periods. Each exemption will last two years unless revoked due to non-compliance, decreased safety, or inconsistency with regulatory goals.

The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) received a petition from Kanawha Eagle Mining, LLC to allow the use of specific Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) near certain mining areas at the North Eagle Mine in West Virginia. These respirators, which are not currently approved by MSHA, are claimed to provide safety and comfort for miners, especially those with facial hair or who cannot use tight-fitting masks. The proposal outlines an alternative method to ensure safety while using these PAPRs, including regular inspections, training, and adherence to manufacturer guidelines. The petition argues that this method will maintain or exceed the current safety standards for miners.