In response to a warning issued yesterday by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the U.S. Department of Transportation is asking the transportation community to continue the highest level of security awareness and exercise additional safety precautions regarding the transportation system. Although non-specific, according to the FBI, credible sources have indicated that a possible terrorist attack may occur within the week.

Transportation security can no longer be treated as a secondary or even tertiary issue. Security measures should include reviewing vulnerabilities, identifying best practices, and building sustainable working relationships with security officials.

As Secretary Norman Y. Mineta testified last month, "We will have to take precautions in transportation that we have never taken before, and we will have to do the same in virtually every aspect of American life. We will find ways to preserve the best of our transportation systems - the freedom of movement, the safe and efficient movement of goods and people that is so necessary to our economy. We will find ways to accomplish both heightened security and the benefits of efficient transportation system".

A terrorist incident involving hazardous materials could be devastating to America's transportation infrastructure. The Department is requesting shippers and transporters of high-hazard materials to review security measures and make adjustments accordingly. Reviews and audits of transportation systems should also include ensuring security at terminals, depots, warehouses, and distribution centers as well as the protection of automated systems, information technology, and documentation procedures. (For high-hazard materials see 49 CFR 172.504 Table 1)

This Safety Alert is being released in conjunction with a memorandum from the USDOT's Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) dated October 29, 2001 addressed to FMCSA's State Directors and Division Administrators.

[image showing a "Safety Alert Banner" is available on page 1 of the PDF linked at the right]

U.S. Department of Transportation