The Department of Transportation regulates interstate transit and transportation of cargo. All DOT-registered carriers must comply with the rules and regulations of the DOT. The regulations apply to the transportation of passengers on buses and to the transportation of cargo on trucks, trains and vessels. Smoking is specifically addressed in several of these regulations.
[box type=”shadow”]Transportation of Flammable Substances
The Department of Transportation has different classifications for specific types of flammable substances. The substances include ammonium nitrate mixtures, flammable liquid fuel and explosives. The DOT has specific regulations regarding smoking for each type of flammable substance. Smoking is banned during the transport, loading and unloading of these types of cargo. There are also regulations banning smoking during the fueling of vehicles, including aircraft. When flammable substances are transported by vessel, the smoking ban applies to the area where the cargo is held. These regulations specifically prohibit smoking or carrying a lit cigarette, cigar or pipe or any other device capable of causing an open flame or spark.[/box]
[box type=”shadow”]“No Smoking” Signs
“No smoking” signs are required to be posted in any area where smoking is prohibited. This includes cargo holds, fueling areas and near ventilators that lead to a hold containing flammable liquids. The DOT requires the signs to carry legends that identify specific hazards.[/box]
[box type=”shadow”]Interstate Passenger Vehicles
Smoking is prohibited by passengers, drivers and other employees on all common carrier, passenger motor vehicles during scheduled or special service in interstate commerce. This regulation does not apply to charter carriers. Carriers are required to make announcements to passengers and post conspicuous “no smoking” signs in all vehicles carrying passengers.[/box]
