South Korea Proposes Revision of the Standards for Hazardous Chemical Transport Facilities

On March 28, 2025, the National Institute of Chemical Safety in South Korea announced a partial revision of the Standards for Installation and Management of Hazardous Chemical Transport Facilities. This revision aims to clarify and specify the standards for vehicle transport facilities to reduce confusion in the file and enhance the chemical safety of transport facilities.  

Specifically, the current regulations for vehicle-mounted tanks require a minimum steel plate thickness of 3.2 mm or equivalent materials for all substances, but this approach is impractical for corrosive substances, leading to increased vehicle weight and reduced steel lifespan. To address this, the regulations have been revised to allow materials tailored to the specific needs of corrosive substances. However, existing guidelines for lining materials and methods are unclear, resulting in frequent accidents despite the use of linings. 

Key Content 

• Target audience: Operators of hazardous chemical vehicle transport facilities, specifically those transporting corrosive substances. 

• Stakeholders: The public, especially those impacted by the transportation of hazardous chemicals. 

• Key change: The revised standards specify that when transporting corrosive substances, the selection of appropriate corrosion-resistant lining materials must be clearly defined. This includes providing practical guidance on how to inspect and apply the correct lining materials. 

Submission of Comments  

Individuals, organizations, and associations wishing to provide feedback on the proposed revisions to the "Standards for Installation and Management of Hazardous Chemical Transport Facilities" must submit their comments by April 18, 2025. Feedback can be submitted online through the National Legislative Center website, or by email with the necessary contact details.