As a result, a comprehensive new series of regulations and equipment was developed to enhance the safety and security of these materials in transit.
Since its establishment in 1975, OST has accumulated over 100 million miles of over-the-road experience transporting DOE-owned cargo with no accidents causing a fatality or release of radioactive material.
In November 1996, after 13 years of accident-free travel, a convoy in western Nebraska encountered an unexpected ice storm.
[1] The OST modified and redesigned transport equipment to incorporate features that effectively enhance self-protection and deny unauthorized access to the materials.
This system, known as the Transportation and Emergency Control Center (TECC), monitors the status and location of shipments and maintains real-time communications 24 hours a day with every convoy.
During a convoy emergency, an open communications line is established and maintained between the control center and the appropriate state agencies.
In the event of a vehicle accident involving a Safe Secure Trailer (SST) or Safeguards Transporter (SGT), the local responders (e.g., police, sheriff, state trooper, fire department, etc.