Action
Notice of Safety Advisory 2009-02; Inspection of Bottom Outlet Valves and Assemblies.
Summary
FRA is issuing Safety Advisory 2009-02 to ensure that tank cars with defective or inoperable bottom outlet valves are not loaded with hazardous materials and offered for transportation, or in the event that a bottom outlet valve becomes inoperable en route, adequate unloading procedures are followed to prevent any unintended release of the car's contents. This safety advisory recommends specific loading and unloading procedures for hazardous materials tank cars equipped with bottom outlet valves, as well as the inspection, and as necessary, the repair of these valves.