Tanker blitz
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FRANCE is to revise the c and u rules for bulk tankers carrying hazardous liquid and gaseous cargo. This includes a ban on foreign vehicles constructed of certain materials (so-called "T1"-type steel has not been permitted for French-built tankers for several years), more stringent inspection of equipment and improved training methods for driving and terminal staff.
After consultation with operators, the French transport ministry is also to introduce new speed limits for tankers carrying certain types of hazardous liquids, with a 60 km/ h limit on ordinary roads and 80 km/ h on motorways. Greater concern for public safety has also resulted, during the recent wintry spell, in a ban on tanker operation by the Dutch authorities when black ice or snow made roads slippery.
To ensure continuity of fuel supplies, certain exemptions to the ice ban.' are made. Dutch legislation, of course, provides for a 25 per cent surcharge on transport and haulage rates during exceptionally severe weather conditions.