Focus Article - Competent Authority Approval
In the UN system of classifying hazardous materials, there are references to a “Competent Authority”. While this term may have various meanings in other circles, in relation to hazardous materials transportation, this authority is the designated final word on UN Classification or International Shipping within each country. In the USA, the “Competent Authority” is the Associate Administrator for Hazardous Materials Safety. This is a senior leadership position within PHMSA (US DOT Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration). The regulating applicable document is the most current version of 49 CFR parts 100-185.