Hours of Service (HOS) of Drivers; American Pyrotechnics Assn. (APA); Request To Add New Members to Current APA Exemption, 3533-3536 [2019-01994]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 29 / Tuesday, February 12, 2019 / Notices I. Public Participation A. Viewing Documents and Comments To view comments, as well as any documents mentioned in this notice as being available in the docket, go to https://www.regulations.gov. Insert the docket number, FMCSA–2018–0319 in the keyword box, and click ‘‘Search.’’ Next, click the ‘‘Open Docket Folder’’ button and choose the document to review. If you do not have access to the internet, you may view the docket online by visiting the Docket Management Facility in Room W12–140 on the ground floor of the DOT West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., ET, Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. B. Privacy Act In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(c), DOT solicits comments from the public to better inform its rulemaking process. DOT posts these comments, without edit, including any personal information the commenter provides, to www.regulations.gov, as described in the system of records notice (DOT/ALL– 14 FDMS), which can be reviewed at www.dot.gov/privacy. II. Background On November 14, 2018, FMCSA published a FR notice (83 FR 56896) announcing receipt of applications from four individuals treated with ICDs and requested comments from the public. These four individuals requested an exemption from 49 CFR 391.41(b)(4) which prohibits operation of a CMV in interstate commerce by persons with a current clinical diagnosis of myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, coronary insufficiency, thrombosis, or any other cardiovascular disease of a variety known to be accompanied by syncope, dyspnea, collapse, or congestive heart failure. The public comment period closed on December 14, 2018, and no comments were received. FMCSA has evaluated the eligibility of these applicants and concluded that granting these exemptions would not provide a level of safety that would be equivalent to or greater than, the level of safety that would be obtained by complying with the regulation 49 CFR 391.41(b)(4). A summary of each applicant’s medical history related to their ICD exemption request was discussed in the November 14, 2018, Federal Register notice and will not be repeated in this notice. In reaching the decision to deny these exemption requests, the Agency considered information from the Cardiovascular Medical Advisory VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:30 Feb 11, 2019 Jkt 247001 Criteria, an April 2007 Evidence Report titled ‘‘Cardiovascular Disease and Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver Safety, and a December 2014 focused research report titled ‘‘Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators and the Impact of a Shock in a Patient When Deployed.’’ Copies of the reports are included in the docket. FMCSA has published advisory criteria to assist medical examiners in determining whether drivers with certain medical conditions are qualified to operate a CMV in interstate commerce. [Appendix A to Part 391— Medical Advisory Criteria, section D, paragraph 4]. The advisory criteria for 49 CFR 391.41(b)(4) indicates that coronary artery bypass surgery and pacemaker implantation are remedial procedures and thus, not medically disqualifying. Implantable cardioverter defibrillators are disqualifying due to risk of syncope. III. Discussion of Comments FMCSA received no comments in this proceeding. IV. Basis for Exemption Determination Under 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315, FMCSA may grant an exemption if it finds such an exemption would likely achieve a level of safety that is equivalent to, or greater then, the level that would be achieved absent such an exemption. The Agency’s decision regarding these exemption applications is based on an individualized assessment of each applicant’s medical information provided by the applicant, available medical and scientific data concerning ICD’s, and public comments received. In the case of persons with ICDs, the underlying condition for which the ICD was implanted places the individual at high risk for syncope (a transient loss of consciousness) or other unpredictable events known to result in gradual or sudden incapacitation. ICDs may discharge, which could result in loss of ability to safely control a CMV. See the April 2007 Evidence Report on Cardiovascular Disease and Commercial Motor vehicle Driver Safety, April 2007.1 A focused research report on Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators and the Impact of a Shock on a Patient When Deployed completed for the FMCSA in December of 2014 indicates that the available scientific data on persons with ICDs and CMV driving does not support that persons with ICDs who operate CMVs are able to meet an equal or greater level of safety and 1 Now available at https://ntl.bts.gov/lib/30000/ 30100/30123/Final_CVD_Evidence_Report_v2.pdf. PO 00000 Frm 00123 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 3533 upholds the findings of the April 2007 report. V. Conclusion The Agency has determined that the available medical and scientific literature and research provides insufficient data to enable the Agency to conclude that granting these exemptions would achieve a level of safety equivalent to, or greater than, the level of safety maintained without the exemption. Therefore, the following four applicants have been denied exemptions from the physical qualification standards in 49 CFR 391.41(b)(4): Herman L. Bolton (LA) Robert A. Crawley (MD) Paul J. Hill (SD) Johnny L. Walls (AL) Each applicant has, prior to this notice, received a letter of final disposition regarding his/her exemption request. Those decision letters fully outlined the basis for the denial and constitutes final action by the Agency. The list published today summarizes the Agency’s recent denials as required under 49 U.S.C. 31315(b)(4). Issued on: February 1, 2019. Larry W. Minor, Associate Administrator for Policy. [FR Doc. 2019–01991 Filed 2–11–19; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–EX–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration [Docket No. FMCSA–2007–28043] Hours of Service (HOS) of Drivers; American Pyrotechnics Assn. (APA); Request To Add New Members to Current APA Exemption Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of final disposition. AGENCY: FMCSA announces its decision to grant an exemption to three additional member companies of the American Pyrotechnics Association (APA)—Artisan Pyrotechnics Inc., Montana Display Fireworks, Inc., and ZY Pyrotechnics, LLC dba Skyshooter Displays, Inc.—from the prohibition on driving commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) after the 14th hour after the driver comes on duty. During the 2017 Independence Day period 51 APA members held such an exemption, effective during the period June 28 through July 8 each year through 2020. APA advised FMCSA of the SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\12FEN1.SGM 12FEN1 3534 Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 29 / Tuesday, February 12, 2019 / Notices discontinuance of the exemption for one carrier; with the addition of the three new members the total increases to 53. The exemption granted to the three carriers will terminate at the same time as the other 50 exempted carriers. FMCSA has determined that the terms and conditions of the exemption ensure a level of safety equivalent to, or greater than, the level of safety achieved without the exemption. DATES: These exemptions from 49 CFR 395.3(a)(2) are effective from June 28 through July 8, at 11:59 p.m. local time, each year through 2020. ADDRESSES: Docket: For access to the docket to read background documents or comments, go to www.regulations.gov at any time or visit Room W12–140 on the ground level of the West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., ET, Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The on-line Federal Docket Management System (FDMS) is available 24 hours each day, 365 days each year. If you want acknowledgment that we received your comments, please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope or postcard or print the acknowledgment page that appears after submitting comments on-line. Privacy Act: In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(c), DOT solicits comments from the public to better inform its rulemaking process. DOT posts these comments, without edit, including any personal information the commenter provides, to www.regulations.gov, as described in the system of records notice (DOT/ALL–14 FDMS), which can be reviewed at www.dot.gov/privacy. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. LaTonya Mimms, Chief, FMCSA Driver and Carrier Operations Division; Office of Carrier, Driver and Vehicle Safety Standards; Email: LaTonya.Mimms@ dot.gov. If you have questions on viewing or submitting material to the docket, contact Docket Services, telephone (202) 366–9826. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Public Participation Viewing Comments and Documents To view comments, as well as documents mentioned in this preamble as being available in the docket, go to www.regulations.gov and insert the docket number, ‘‘FMCSA–2007–28043’’ in the ‘‘Keyword’’ box and click ‘‘Search.’’ Next, click ‘‘Open Docket Folder’’ button and choose the document listed to review. If you do not have access to the internet, you may view the docket online by visiting the VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:30 Feb 11, 2019 Jkt 247001 Docket Management Facility in Room W12–140 on the ground floor of the DOT West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., E.T., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. II. Legal Basis FMCSA has authority under 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315 to grant exemptions from certain parts of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. FMCSA must publish a notice of each exemption request in the Federal Register (49 CFR 381.315(a)). The Agency must provide the public an opportunity to inspect the information relevant to the application, including any safety analyses that have been conducted. The Agency must also provide an opportunity for public comment on the request. The Agency reviews the safety analyses and the public comments, and determines whether granting the exemption would likely achieve a level of safety equivalent to, or greater than, the level that would be achieved by the current regulation (49 CFR 381.305). The decision of the Agency must be published in the Federal Register (49 CFR 381.315(b)) with the reason for the grant or denial, and, if granted, the specific person or class of persons receiving the exemption, and the regulatory provision or provisions from which exemption is granted. The notice must also specify the effective period of the exemption (up to 5 years), and explain the terms and conditions of the exemption. The exemption may be renewed (49 CFR 381.300(b)). III. APA Application for Exemption The HOS rule in 49 CFR 395.3(a)(2) prohibits the driver of a propertycarrying CMV from driving after the 14th hour after coming on duty following 10 consecutive hours off duty. During the 2017 Independence Day period 51 APA members held such an exemption, effective during the period June 28 through July 8 each year through 2020. APA has requested additional exemptions for Artisan Pyrotechnics Inc., DOT# 1898096, Montana Display Fireworks, Inc., DOT# 1030231, and ZY Pyrotechnics, LLC dba Skyshooter Displays, Inc., DOT# 2149202, and the discontinuance of an exemption for Island Fireworks, DOT# 414583, increasing the total to 53. Like the other 50 member companies, the three new companies would be subject to all the terms and conditions of the multi-year APA exemption that terminates on July 8, 2020. Although this is less than the 5-year exemption period authorized by 49 U.S.C. PO 00000 Frm 00124 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 31315(b)(2), FMCSA believes that the interests of the APA members and the Agency would best be served by harmonizing, as far as possible, the expiration dates of all such fireworksrelated exemptions. On June 21, 2018, FMCSA granted waivers to these three APA members to allow them to participate in the 2018 Independence Day celebration. The initial APA application for relief from the 14-hour rule was submitted in 2004; a copy is in the docket. That application fully describes the nature of the pyrotechnic operations of CMV drivers during a typical Independence Day period. As stated in the 2004 request, the CMV drivers employed by APA member companies are trained pyro-technicians who hold commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) with hazardous materials (HM) endorsements. They transport fireworks and related equipment by CMVs on a very demanding schedule during a brief Independence Day period, often to remote locations. After they arrive, the drivers are responsible for set-up and staging of the fireworks shows. The APA states that it is seeking an additional exemption for the three new member companies because compliance with the current 14-hour rule in 49 CFR 395.3(a)(2) would impose a substantial economic hardship on numerous cities, towns and municipalities, as well as its member companies. To meet the demand for fireworks without the exemption, APA states that its member companies would be required to hire a second driver for most trips. The APA advises that the result would be a substantial increase in the cost of the fireworks shows—beyond the means of many of its members’ customers—and that many Americans would be denied this important component of the celebration of Independence Day. On June 21, 2018, FMCSA granted waivers to APA on behalf of Artisan Pyrotechnics Inc., Montana Display Fireworks, Inc., and ZY Pyrotechnics, LLC dba Skyshooter Displays, Inc., to allow these carriers to participate in the 2018 Independence Day celebration. The waiver also allowed the Agency time to complete the exemption process. IV. Method To Ensure an Equivalent or Greater Level of Safety The APA believes that the exemption would not adversely affect the safety of the fireworks transportation provided by this motor carrier. According to APA, its member-companies have operated under this Independence Day exemption for the past 10 years without a reported motor carrier safety incident. Moreover, it asserts that, without the E:\FR\FM\12FEN1.SGM 12FEN1 Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 29 / Tuesday, February 12, 2019 / Notices extra time provided by the exemption, safety would decline because APA drivers would be unable to return to their home base after each show. They would be forced to park the CMVs carrying HM 1.1G, 1.3G and 1.4G products in areas less secure than the motor carrier’s home base. As a condition of holding the exemption, each motor carrier will be required to notify FMCSA within 5 business days of any accident (as defined in 49 CFR 390.5) involving the operation of any of its CMVs while under this exemption. To date, FMCSA has received no accident notifications, nor is the Agency aware of any accidents reportable under terms of the prior APA exemption. In its exemption request, APA asserts that the operational demands of this unique industry minimize the risks of CMV crashes. In the last few days before July 4, these drivers transport fireworks over relatively short routes from distribution points to the site of the fireworks display, and normally do so in the early morning when traffic is light. At the site, they spend considerable time installing, wiring, and safetychecking the fireworks displays, followed by several hours off duty in the late afternoon and early evening prior to the event. During this time, the drivers are able to rest and nap, thereby reducing or eliminating the fatigue accumulated during the day. Before beginning another duty day, these drivers must take 10 consecutive hours off duty, the same as other CMV drivers. V. Public Comments On June 8, 2018, FMCSA published notice of this application and requested public comments (83 FR 26742). The only comment submitted was not relevant to this notice. VI. FMCSA Response FMCSA has determined that granting an exemption to Artisan Pyrotechnics Inc., Montana Display Fireworks, Inc., and ZY Pyrotechnics, LLC dba Skyshooter Displays, Inc., will achieve a level of safety equivalent to or greater than the level that compliance with the 14-hour rule would ensure. Prior to publishing the Federal Register notice announcing the receipt of APA’s application to add these three carriers to the current list of carriers operating under the exemption, FMCSA ensured that each motor carrier possessed an active USDOT registration, minimum required levels of insurance, and was not subject to any ‘‘imminent hazard’’ or other out-of-service (OOS) orders. The Agency conducted a comprehensive investigation of the safety performance VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:30 Feb 11, 2019 Jkt 247001 history on each of the motor carriers listed in the appendix table during the review process. As part of this process, FMCSA reviewed its Motor Carrier Management Information System safety records, including inspection and accident reports submitted to FMCSA by State agencies. With regard to safety statistics, none of the carriers, including the 3 new carriers proposed for exemption, was under an imminent hazard or OOS order, had any alerts in the Safety Management System (SMS), or was under investigation by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration. All had ‘‘satisfactory’’ safety ratings based on compliance reviews, and all had valid Hazardous Materials Safety Permits. VII. Terms and Conditions of the Exemption Period of the Exemption The exemption from 49 CFR 395.3(a)(2) is effective from June 28 through July 8, at 11:59 p.m. local time, each year through 2020 for the 53 carriers identified in this notice. Terms and Conditions of the Exemption The exemption from 49 CFR 395.3(a)(2) will be limited to drivers employed by the 50 motor carriers already covered by the multi-year exemption, and drivers employed by the three additional carriers identified by an asterisk in the appendix table of this notice. Section 395.3(a)(2) prohibits a driver from driving a CMV after the 14th hour after coming on duty and does not permit off-duty periods to extend the 14-hour limit. Drivers covered by this exemption may exclude off-duty and sleeper-berth time of any length from the calculation of the 14-hour limit. This exemption is contingent on each driver driving no more than 11 hours in the 14-hour period after coming on duty, as extended by any off-duty or sleeper-berth time in accordance with this exception. The exemption is further contingent on each driver having a full 10 consecutive hours off duty following 14 hours on duty prior to beginning a new driving period. The carriers and drivers must comply with all other requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (49 CFR parts 350–399) and Hazardous Materials Regulations (49 CFR parts 105–180). Preemption In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31315(d), as implemented by 49 CFR 381.600, during the period this exemption is in effect, no State shall enforce any law or regulation applicable PO 00000 Frm 00125 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 3535 to interstate commerce that conflicts with or is inconsistent with this exemption with respect to a firm or person operating under the exemption. States may, but are not required to, adopt the same exemption with respect to operations in intrastate commerce. FMCSA Notification Exempt motor carriers are required to notify FMCSA within 5 business days of any accidents (as defined by 49 CFR 390.5) involving the operation of any of their CMVs while under this exemption. The notification must be by email to MCPSD@DOT.GOV and include the following information: a. Name of the Exemption: ‘‘APA’’ b. Date of the accident, c. City or town, and State, in which the accident occurred, or which is closest to the scene of the accident, d. Driver’s name and driver’s license State, number, and class, e. Co-Driver’s name and driver’s license State, number, and class, f. Vehicle company number and power unit license plate State and number, g. Number of individuals suffering physical injury, h. Number of fatalities, i. The police-reported cause of the accident, j. Whether the driver was cited for violation of any traffic laws, or motor carrier safety regulations, and k. The total driving time and the total on-duty time of the CMV driver at the time of the accident. In addition, if there are any injuries or fatalities, the carrier must forward the police accident report to MCPSD@ DOT.GOV as soon as available. Termination The FMCSA does not believe the motor carriers and drivers covered by this exemption will experience any deterioration of their safety record. However, should this occur, FMCSA will take all steps necessary to protect the public interest, including revocation of the exemption. The FMCSA will immediately revoke the exemption for failure to comply with its terms and conditions. Exempt motor carriers and drivers would be subject to FMCSA monitoring while operating under this exemption. Issued on: February 1, 2019. Raymond P. Martinez, Administrator. E:\FR\FM\12FEN1.SGM 12FEN1 3536 Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 29 / Tuesday, February 12, 2019 / Notices APPENDIX TO NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR APPROVAL OF MOTOR CARRIERS TO UTILIZE AMERICAN PYROTECHNICS ASSOCIATION’S (APA) EXEMPTION FROM THE 14-HOUR RULE DURING INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATIONS [June 28 through July 8, 2020] Motor carrier Street address City, state, zip code 1. American Fireworks Company ............................................. 2. American Fireworks Display, LLC ........................................ 3. AM Pyrotechnics, LLC .......................................................... 4. Arthur Rozzi Pyrotechnics .................................................... 5. Artisan Pyrotechnics, Inc * .................................................... 6. Atlas PyroVision Entertainment Group, Inc .......................... 7. Central States Fireworks, Inc ............................................... 8. East Coast Pyrotechnics, Inc ............................................... 9. Entertainment Fireworks, Inc ................................................ 10. Falcon Fireworks ................................................................ 11. Fireworks & Stage FX America .......................................... 12. Fireworks by Grucci, Inc ..................................................... 13. Flashing Thunder Fireworks dba Legal Aluminum King Mtg. 14. J&J Computing dba Fireworks Extravaganza .................... 15. Gateway Fireworks Displays .............................................. 16. Great Lakes Fireworks ....................................................... 17. Hamburg Fireworks Display, Inc ........................................ 18. Hawaii Explosives & Pyrotechnics, Inc .............................. 19. Hollywood Pyrotechnics, Inc ............................................... 20. Homeland Fireworks, Inc .................................................... 21. J&M Displays, Inc ............................................................... 22. Lantis Fireworks, Inc ........................................................... 23. Legion Fireworks Co., Inc ................................................... 24. Miand Inc. dba Planet Productions (Mad Bomber) ............ 7041 Darrow Road ................. P.O. Box 980 .......................... 2429 East 535th Rd ................ 6607 Red Hawk Ct ................. 82 Grace Road ....................... 136 Old Sharon Rd ................. 18034 Kincaid Street .............. 4652 Catawba River Rd ......... 13313 Reeder Road SW ........ 3411 Courthouse Road .......... 12650 Hwy. 67S, Suite B ....... 20 Pinehurst Drive .................. 700 E Van Buren Street ......... Hudson, OH 44236 ................. Oxford, NY 13830 ................... Buffalo, MO 65622 .................. Maineville, OH 45039 ............. Wiggins, MS 39577 ................ Jaffrey, NH 03452 ................... Athens, IL 62613 .................... Catawba, SC 29704 ............... Tenino, WA 98589 .................. Guyton, GA 31312 .................. Lakeside, CA 92040 ............... Bellport, NY 11713 ................. Mitchell, IA 50461 ................... 103972 2115608 1034961 2008107 1898096 789777 1022659 545033 680942 1037954 908304 324490 420413 174 Route 17 North ................ P.O. Box 39327 ...................... 24805 Marine .......................... 2240 Horns Mill Road SE ....... 17–7850 N Kulani Road ......... 1567 Antler Point .................... P.O. Box 7 .............................. 18064 170th Ave .................... 130 Sodrac Dr., Box 229 ........ 10 Legion Lane ....................... P.O. Box 294, 3999 Hupp Road, R31. P.O. Box 322 .......................... Rochelle Park, NJ 07662 ........ St Louis, MO 63139 ................ Eastpointe, MI 48021 .............. Lancaster, OH ......................... Mountain View, HI 96771 ....... Eagan, MN 55122 ................... Jamieson, OR 97909 .............. Yarmouth, IA 52660 ................ N Sioux City, SD 57049 ......... Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 .. Kingsbury, IN 46345 ............... 2064141 1325301 1011216 395079 1375918 1061068 1377525 377461 534052 554391 777176 Hallowell, ME 04347 ............... 734974 1 Kingsbury Industrial Park .... 9480 Inspiration Road ............ 4420–278th Ave. NW ............. 115 N 1st Street ..................... 3325 Poplar Lane ................... 6601 9 Mile Azle Rd ............... 400 Broadhollow Rd., Ste. #3 3196 N Locust Ave ................. 5301 Lang Avenue ................. 8450 W St. Francis Rd ........... 302 Wilson Rd ........................ 6965 Speedway Blvd., Suite 115. 76 Plum Ave ........................... 21595 286th St ....................... 11605 North Lebanon Rd ....... 3626 CR 203 .......................... 13513 W Carrier Rd ............... 935 Wales Ridge Rd .............. 220 Roselawn Blvd ................. 6401 West Hwy. 40 ................ 682 Cole Road ........................ 2235 Vermont Route 14 South 10946 S New Era Rd ............. P.O. Box 160 .......................... 205 W Seidlers ....................... P.O. Box 18653 ...................... P.O. Box 1463 ........................ 1014 Slocum Road ................. Kingsbury, IN 46345 ............... Missoula, MT 59808 ............... Belgrade, MN 56312 ............... LaFollette, TN 37766 .............. Adamsville, AL 35005 ............. Fort Worth, TX 76135 ............. Farmingdale, NY 11735 .......... Rialto, CA 92376 .................... McClellan, CA 95652 .............. Frankfort, IL 60423 ................. New Castle, PA 16105 ........... Las Vegas, NV 89115 ............ 434586 1030231 435931 456818 2859710 2432196 530262 029329 1671438 1929883 526749 1610728 Inman, KS 67546 .................... Belle Plaine, MN 56011 .......... Loveland, OH 45140 ............... Liverpool, TX 77577 ............... Carrier, OK 73727 .................. Wales, MI 48027 ..................... Green Bay, WI 54301 ............. Columbia, MO 65202 .............. Carrolltown, PA 15722 ............ East Montpelier, VT 05651 ..... Canby, OR 97013 ................... Carrier, OK 73727 .................. Kawkawlin, MI ......................... Rochester, NY 14618 ............. New Castle, PA 16103 ........... Wapwallopen, PA 18660 ........ 1139643 523981 0483686 1324580 1421047 2475727 046479 2138948 554645 310632 498941 203517 376857 450304 033167 1030231 25. Martin & Ware Inc. dba Pyro City Maine & Central Maine Pyrotechnics. 26. Melrose Pyrotechnics, Inc .................................................. 27. Montana Display Fireworks, Inc * ....................................... 28. Precocious Pyrotechnics, Inc ............................................. 29. Pyro Shows, Inc .................................................................. 30. Pyro Shows of Alabama, Inc .............................................. 31. Pyro Shows of Texas, Inc .................................................. 32. Pyro Engineering Inc., dba/Bay Fireworks ......................... 33. Pyro Spectaculars, Inc ........................................................ 34. Pyro Spectaculars North, Inc .............................................. 35. Pyrotechnic Display, Inc ..................................................... 36. Pyrotecnico (S. Vitale Pyrotechnic Industries, Inc.) ........... 37. Pyrotecnico FX ................................................................... 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. 44. 45. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50. 51. 52. 53. Rainbow Fireworks, Inc ...................................................... RES Specialty Pyrotechnics ............................................... Rozzi’s Famous Fireworks, Inc .......................................... Sky Wonder Pyrotechnics, LLC .......................................... Skyworks, Ltd ..................................................................... Sorgi American Fireworks Michigan, LLC .......................... Spielbauer Fireworks Co., Inc ............................................ Spirit of 76 .......................................................................... Starfire Corporation ............................................................ Vermont Fireworks Co., Inc./Northstar Fireworks Co., Inc Western Display Fireworks, Ltd .......................................... Western Enterprises, Inc .................................................... Wolverine Fireworks Display, Inc ....................................... Young Explosives Corp ...................................................... Zambelli Fireworks MFG, Co., Inc ...................................... ZY Pyrotechnics, LLC dba Skyshooter Displays, Inc * ....... * Not included in 2017–2020 list of approved carriers. [FR Doc. 2019–01994 Filed 2–11–19; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–EX–P VerDate Sep<11>2014 20:02 Feb 11, 2019 Jkt 247001 PO 00000 Frm 00126 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\12FEN1.SGM 12FEN1 DOT No.

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 29 (Tuesday, February 12, 2019)]
[Notices]
[Pages 3533-3536]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-01994]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

[Docket No. FMCSA-2007-28043]

Hours of Service (HOS) of Drivers; American Pyrotechnics Assn.
(APA); Request To Add New Members to Current APA Exemption

AGENCY: Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of final disposition.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: FMCSA announces its decision to grant an exemption to three
additional member companies of the American Pyrotechnics Association
(APA)--Artisan Pyrotechnics Inc., Montana Display Fireworks, Inc., and
ZY Pyrotechnics, LLC dba Skyshooter Displays, Inc.--from the
prohibition on driving commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) after the 14th
hour after the driver comes on duty. During the 2017 Independence Day
period 51 APA members held such an exemption, effective during the
period June 28 through July 8 each year through 2020. APA advised FMCSA
of the

[[Page 3534]]

discontinuance of the exemption for one carrier; with the addition of
the three new members the total increases to 53. The exemption granted
to the three carriers will terminate at the same time as the other 50
exempted carriers. FMCSA has determined that the terms and conditions
of the exemption ensure a level of safety equivalent to, or greater
than, the level of safety achieved without the exemption.

DATES: These exemptions from 49 CFR 395.3(a)(2) are effective from June
28 through July 8, at 11:59 p.m. local time, each year through 2020.

ADDRESSES:
Docket: For access to the docket to read background documents or
comments, go to www.regulations.gov at any time or visit Room W12-140
on the ground level of the West Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., ET, Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays. The on-line Federal Docket Management System
(FDMS) is available 24 hours each day, 365 days each year. If you want
acknowledgment that we received your comments, please include a self-
addressed, stamped envelope or postcard or print the acknowledgment
page that appears after submitting comments on-line.
Privacy Act: In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 553(c), DOT solicits
comments from the public to better inform its rulemaking process. DOT
posts these comments, without edit, including any personal information
the commenter provides, to www.regulations.gov, as described in the
system of records notice (DOT/ALL-14 FDMS), which can be reviewed at
www.dot.gov/privacy.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. LaTonya Mimms, Chief, FMCSA Driver
and Carrier Operations Division; Office of Carrier, Driver and Vehicle
Safety Standards; Email: LaTonya.Mimms@dot.gov. If you have questions
on viewing or submitting material to the docket, contact Docket
Services, telephone (202) 366-9826.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Public Participation

Viewing Comments and Documents

To view comments, as well as documents mentioned in this preamble
as being available in the docket, go to www.regulations.gov and insert
the docket number, ``FMCSA-2007-28043'' in the ``Keyword'' box and
click ``Search.'' Next, click ``Open Docket Folder'' button and choose
the document listed to review. If you do not have access to the
internet, you may view the docket online by visiting the Docket
Management Facility in Room W12-140 on the ground floor of the DOT West
Building, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590, between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., E.T., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

II. Legal Basis

FMCSA has authority under 49 U.S.C. 31136(e) and 31315 to grant
exemptions from certain parts of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Regulations. FMCSA must publish a notice of each exemption request in
the Federal Register (49 CFR 381.315(a)). The Agency must provide the
public an opportunity to inspect the information relevant to the
application, including any safety analyses that have been conducted.
The Agency must also provide an opportunity for public comment on the
request.
The Agency reviews the safety analyses and the public comments, and
determines whether granting the exemption would likely achieve a level
of safety equivalent to, or greater than, the level that would be
achieved by the current regulation (49 CFR 381.305). The decision of
the Agency must be published in the Federal Register (49 CFR
381.315(b)) with the reason for the grant or denial, and, if granted,
the specific person or class of persons receiving the exemption, and
the regulatory provision or provisions from which exemption is granted.
The notice must also specify the effective period of the exemption (up
to 5 years), and explain the terms and conditions of the exemption. The
exemption may be renewed (49 CFR 381.300(b)).

III. APA Application for Exemption

The HOS rule in 49 CFR 395.3(a)(2) prohibits the driver of a
property-carrying CMV from driving after the 14th hour after coming on
duty following 10 consecutive hours off duty. During the 2017
Independence Day period 51 APA members held such an exemption,
effective during the period June 28 through July 8 each year through
2020. APA has requested additional exemptions for Artisan Pyrotechnics
Inc., DOT# 1898096, Montana Display Fireworks, Inc., DOT# 1030231, and
ZY Pyrotechnics, LLC dba Skyshooter Displays, Inc., DOT# 2149202, and
the discontinuance of an exemption for Island Fireworks, DOT# 414583,
increasing the total to 53. Like the other 50 member companies, the
three new companies would be subject to all the terms and conditions of
the multi-year APA exemption that terminates on July 8, 2020. Although
this is less than the 5-year exemption period authorized by 49 U.S.C.
31315(b)(2), FMCSA believes that the interests of the APA members and
the Agency would best be served by harmonizing, as far as possible, the
expiration dates of all such fireworks-related exemptions. On June 21,
2018, FMCSA granted waivers to these three APA members to allow them to
participate in the 2018 Independence Day celebration.
The initial APA application for relief from the 14-hour rule was
submitted in 2004; a copy is in the docket. That application fully
describes the nature of the pyrotechnic operations of CMV drivers
during a typical Independence Day period.
As stated in the 2004 request, the CMV drivers employed by APA
member companies are trained pyro-technicians who hold commercial
driver's licenses (CDLs) with hazardous materials (HM) endorsements.
They transport fireworks and related equipment by CMVs on a very
demanding schedule during a brief Independence Day period, often to
remote locations. After they arrive, the drivers are responsible for
set-up and staging of the fireworks shows.
The APA states that it is seeking an additional exemption for the
three new member companies because compliance with the current 14-hour
rule in 49 CFR 395.3(a)(2) would impose a substantial economic hardship
on numerous cities, towns and municipalities, as well as its member
companies. To meet the demand for fireworks without the exemption, APA
states that its member companies would be required to hire a second
driver for most trips. The APA advises that the result would be a
substantial increase in the cost of the fireworks shows--beyond the
means of many of its members' customers--and that many Americans would
be denied this important component of the celebration of Independence
Day.
On June 21, 2018, FMCSA granted waivers to APA on behalf of Artisan
Pyrotechnics Inc., Montana Display Fireworks, Inc., and ZY
Pyrotechnics, LLC dba Skyshooter Displays, Inc., to allow these
carriers to participate in the 2018 Independence Day celebration. The
waiver also allowed the Agency time to complete the exemption process.

IV. Method To Ensure an Equivalent or Greater Level of Safety

The APA believes that the exemption would not adversely affect the
safety of the fireworks transportation provided by this motor carrier.
According to APA, its member-companies have operated under this
Independence Day exemption for the past 10 years without a reported
motor carrier safety incident. Moreover, it asserts that, without the

[[Page 3535]]

extra time provided by the exemption, safety would decline because APA
drivers would be unable to return to their home base after each show.
They would be forced to park the CMVs carrying HM 1.1G, 1.3G and 1.4G
products in areas less secure than the motor carrier's home base. As a
condition of holding the exemption, each motor carrier will be required
to notify FMCSA within 5 business days of any accident (as defined in
49 CFR 390.5) involving the operation of any of its CMVs while under
this exemption. To date, FMCSA has received no accident notifications,
nor is the Agency aware of any accidents reportable under terms of the
prior APA exemption.
In its exemption request, APA asserts that the operational demands
of this unique industry minimize the risks of CMV crashes. In the last
few days before July 4, these drivers transport fireworks over
relatively short routes from distribution points to the site of the
fireworks display, and normally do so in the early morning when traffic
is light. At the site, they spend considerable time installing, wiring,
and safety-checking the fireworks displays, followed by several hours
off duty in the late afternoon and early evening prior to the event.
During this time, the drivers are able to rest and nap, thereby
reducing or eliminating the fatigue accumulated during the day. Before
beginning another duty day, these drivers must take 10 consecutive
hours off duty, the same as other CMV drivers.

V. Public Comments

On June 8, 2018, FMCSA published notice of this application and
requested public comments (83 FR 26742). The only comment submitted was
not relevant to this notice.

VI. FMCSA Response

FMCSA has determined that granting an exemption to Artisan
Pyrotechnics Inc., Montana Display Fireworks, Inc., and ZY
Pyrotechnics, LLC dba Skyshooter Displays, Inc., will achieve a level
of safety equivalent to or greater than the level that compliance with
the 14-hour rule would ensure. Prior to publishing the Federal Register
notice announcing the receipt of APA's application to add these three
carriers to the current list of carriers operating under the exemption,
FMCSA ensured that each motor carrier possessed an active USDOT
registration, minimum required levels of insurance, and was not subject
to any ``imminent hazard'' or other out-of-service (OOS) orders. The
Agency conducted a comprehensive investigation of the safety
performance history on each of the motor carriers listed in the
appendix table during the review process. As part of this process,
FMCSA reviewed its Motor Carrier Management Information System safety
records, including inspection and accident reports submitted to FMCSA
by State agencies.
With regard to safety statistics, none of the carriers, including
the 3 new carriers proposed for exemption, was under an imminent hazard
or OOS order, had any alerts in the Safety Management System (SMS), or
was under investigation by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety
Administration. All had ``satisfactory'' safety ratings based on
compliance reviews, and all had valid Hazardous Materials Safety
Permits.

VII. Terms and Conditions of the Exemption

Period of the Exemption

The exemption from 49 CFR 395.3(a)(2) is effective from June 28
through July 8, at 11:59 p.m. local time, each year through 2020 for
the 53 carriers identified in this notice.

Terms and Conditions of the Exemption

The exemption from 49 CFR 395.3(a)(2) will be limited to drivers
employed by the 50 motor carriers already covered by the multi-year
exemption, and drivers employed by the three additional carriers
identified by an asterisk in the appendix table of this notice. Section
395.3(a)(2) prohibits a driver from driving a CMV after the 14th hour
after coming on duty and does not permit off-duty periods to extend the
14-hour limit. Drivers covered by this exemption may exclude off-duty
and sleeper-berth time of any length from the calculation of the 14-
hour limit. This exemption is contingent on each driver driving no more
than 11 hours in the 14-hour period after coming on duty, as extended
by any off-duty or sleeper-berth time in accordance with this
exception. The exemption is further contingent on each driver having a
full 10 consecutive hours off duty following 14 hours on duty prior to
beginning a new driving period. The carriers and drivers must comply
with all other requirements of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Regulations (49 CFR parts 350-399) and Hazardous Materials Regulations
(49 CFR parts 105-180).

Preemption

In accordance with 49 U.S.C. 31315(d), as implemented by 49 CFR
381.600, during the period this exemption is in effect, no State shall
enforce any law or regulation applicable to interstate commerce that
conflicts with or is inconsistent with this exemption with respect to a
firm or person operating under the exemption. States may, but are not
required to, adopt the same exemption with respect to operations in
intrastate commerce.

FMCSA Notification

Exempt motor carriers are required to notify FMCSA within 5
business days of any accidents (as defined by 49 CFR 390.5) involving
the operation of any of their CMVs while under this exemption. The
notification must be by email to MCPSD@DOT.GOV and include the
following information:
a. Name of the Exemption: ``APA''
b. Date of the accident,
c. City or town, and State, in which the accident occurred, or
which is closest to the scene of the accident,
d. Driver's name and driver's license State, number, and class,
e. Co-Driver's name and driver's license State, number, and class,
f. Vehicle company number and power unit license plate State and
number,
g. Number of individuals suffering physical injury,
h. Number of fatalities,
i. The police-reported cause of the accident,
j. Whether the driver was cited for violation of any traffic laws,
or motor carrier safety regulations, and
k. The total driving time and the total on-duty time of the CMV
driver at the time of the accident.
In addition, if there are any injuries or fatalities, the carrier
must forward the police accident report to MCPSD@DOT.GOV as soon as
available.

Termination

The FMCSA does not believe the motor carriers and drivers covered
by this exemption will experience any deterioration of their safety
record. However, should this occur, FMCSA will take all steps necessary
to protect the public interest, including revocation of the exemption.
The FMCSA will immediately revoke the exemption for failure to comply
with its terms and conditions. Exempt motor carriers and drivers would
be subject to FMCSA monitoring while operating under this exemption.

Issued on: February 1, 2019.
Raymond P. Martinez,
Administrator.

[[Page 3536]]

Appendix to Notice of Application for Approval of Motor Carriers To Utilize American Pyrotechnics Association's
(APA) Exemption From the 14-Hour Rule During Independence Day Celebrations
[June 28 through July 8, 2020]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Motor carrier Street address City, state, zip code DOT No.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. American Fireworks Company........... 7041 Darrow Road.......... Hudson, OH 44236.......... 103972
2. American Fireworks Display, LLC...... P.O. Box 980.............. Oxford, NY 13830.......... 2115608
3. AM Pyrotechnics, LLC................. 2429 East 535th Rd........ Buffalo, MO 65622......... 1034961
4. Arthur Rozzi Pyrotechnics............ 6607 Red Hawk Ct.......... Maineville, OH 45039...... 2008107
5. Artisan Pyrotechnics, Inc *.......... 82 Grace Road............. Wiggins, MS 39577......... 1898096
6. Atlas PyroVision Entertainment Group, 136 Old Sharon Rd......... Jaffrey, NH 03452......... 789777
Inc.
7. Central States Fireworks, Inc........ 18034 Kincaid Street...... Athens, IL 62613.......... 1022659
8. East Coast Pyrotechnics, Inc......... 4652 Catawba River Rd..... Catawba, SC 29704......... 545033
9. Entertainment Fireworks, Inc......... 13313 Reeder Road SW...... Tenino, WA 98589.......... 680942
10. Falcon Fireworks.................... 3411 Courthouse Road...... Guyton, GA 31312.......... 1037954
11. Fireworks & Stage FX America........ 12650 Hwy. 67S, Suite B... Lakeside, CA 92040........ 908304
12. Fireworks by Grucci, Inc............ 20 Pinehurst Drive........ Bellport, NY 11713........ 324490
13. Flashing Thunder Fireworks dba Legal 700 E Van Buren Street.... Mitchell, IA 50461........ 420413
Aluminum King Mtg.
14. J&J Computing dba Fireworks 174 Route 17 North........ Rochelle Park, NJ 07662... 2064141
Extravaganza.
15. Gateway Fireworks Displays.......... P.O. Box 39327............ St Louis, MO 63139........ 1325301
16. Great Lakes Fireworks............... 24805 Marine.............. Eastpointe, MI 48021...... 1011216
17. Hamburg Fireworks Display, Inc...... 2240 Horns Mill Road SE... Lancaster, OH............. 395079
18. Hawaii Explosives & Pyrotechnics, 17-7850 N Kulani Road..... Mountain View, HI 96771... 1375918
Inc.
19. Hollywood Pyrotechnics, Inc......... 1567 Antler Point......... Eagan, MN 55122........... 1061068
20. Homeland Fireworks, Inc............. P.O. Box 7................ Jamieson, OR 97909........ 1377525
21. J&M Displays, Inc................... 18064 170th Ave........... Yarmouth, IA 52660........ 377461
22. Lantis Fireworks, Inc............... 130 Sodrac Dr., Box 229... N Sioux City, SD 57049.... 534052
23. Legion Fireworks Co., Inc........... 10 Legion Lane............ Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 554391
24. Miand Inc. dba Planet Productions P.O. Box 294, 3999 Hupp Kingsbury, IN 46345....... 777176
(Mad Bomber). Road, R31.
25. Martin & Ware Inc. dba Pyro City P.O. Box 322.............. Hallowell, ME 04347....... 734974
Maine & Central Maine Pyrotechnics.
26. Melrose Pyrotechnics, Inc........... 1 Kingsbury Industrial Kingsbury, IN 46345....... 434586
Park.
27. Montana Display Fireworks, Inc *.... 9480 Inspiration Road..... Missoula, MT 59808........ 1030231
28. Precocious Pyrotechnics, Inc........ 4420-278th Ave. NW........ Belgrade, MN 56312........ 435931
29. Pyro Shows, Inc..................... 115 N 1st Street.......... LaFollette, TN 37766...... 456818
30. Pyro Shows of Alabama, Inc.......... 3325 Poplar Lane.......... Adamsville, AL 35005...... 2859710
31. Pyro Shows of Texas, Inc............ 6601 9 Mile Azle Rd....... Fort Worth, TX 76135...... 2432196
32. Pyro Engineering Inc., dba/Bay 400 Broadhollow Rd., Ste. Farmingdale, NY 11735..... 530262
Fireworks. #3.
33. Pyro Spectaculars, Inc.............. 3196 N Locust Ave......... Rialto, CA 92376.......... 029329
34. Pyro Spectaculars North, Inc........ 5301 Lang Avenue.......... McClellan, CA 95652....... 1671438
35. Pyrotechnic Display, Inc............ 8450 W St. Francis Rd..... Frankfort, IL 60423....... 1929883
36. Pyrotecnico (S. Vitale Pyrotechnic 302 Wilson Rd............. New Castle, PA 16105...... 526749
Industries, Inc.).
37. Pyrotecnico FX...................... 6965 Speedway Blvd., Suite Las Vegas, NV 89115....... 1610728
115.
38. Rainbow Fireworks, Inc.............. 76 Plum Ave............... Inman, KS 67546........... 1139643
39. RES Specialty Pyrotechnics.......... 21595 286th St............ Belle Plaine, MN 56011.... 523981
40. Rozzi's Famous Fireworks, Inc....... 11605 North Lebanon Rd.... Loveland, OH 45140........ 0483686
41. Sky Wonder Pyrotechnics, LLC........ 3626 CR 203............... Liverpool, TX 77577....... 1324580
42. Skyworks, Ltd....................... 13513 W Carrier Rd........ Carrier, OK 73727......... 1421047
43. Sorgi American Fireworks Michigan, 935 Wales Ridge Rd........ Wales, MI 48027........... 2475727
LLC.
44. Spielbauer Fireworks Co., Inc....... 220 Roselawn Blvd......... Green Bay, WI 54301....... 046479
45. Spirit of 76........................ 6401 West Hwy. 40......... Columbia, MO 65202........ 2138948
46. Starfire Corporation................ 682 Cole Road............. Carrolltown, PA 15722..... 554645
47. Vermont Fireworks Co., Inc./ 2235 Vermont Route 14 East Montpelier, VT 05651. 310632
Northstar Fireworks Co., Inc. South.
48. Western Display Fireworks, Ltd...... 10946 S New Era Rd........ Canby, OR 97013........... 498941
49. Western Enterprises, Inc............ P.O. Box 160.............. Carrier, OK 73727......... 203517
50. Wolverine Fireworks Display, Inc.... 205 W Seidlers............ Kawkawlin, MI............. 376857
51. Young Explosives Corp............... P.O. Box 18653............ Rochester, NY 14618....... 450304
52. Zambelli Fireworks MFG, Co., Inc.... P.O. Box 1463............. New Castle, PA 16103...... 033167
53. ZY Pyrotechnics, LLC dba Skyshooter 1014 Slocum Road.......... Wapwallopen, PA 18660..... 1030231
Displays, Inc *.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Not included in 2017-2020 list of approved carriers.

[FR Doc. 2019-01994 Filed 2-11-19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-EX-P

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