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Freight Issues In Disaster Response

Freight Issues In Disaster Response. Vince Pearce National Response Program Manager USDOT. Agenda. Background Asset Tracking Security Regulations/Waivers Identification Delays. Background. ESF-1 under the NRP is responsible for providing transportation

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Freight Issues In Disaster Response

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  1. Freight Issues In Disaster Response Vince Pearce National Response Program Manager USDOT

  2. Agenda • Background • Asset Tracking • Security • Regulations/Waivers • Identification • Delays

  3. Background • ESF-1 under the NRP is responsible for providing transportation • Other ESFs have their own transportation • We have moved approximately 16,000 truckloads in response to Hurricane Katrina • Sources have been all over the nation

  4. Asset Tracking • Often requests are made under dire conditions • Storage space is scarce in a disaster zone • DHS is interested in a “just in time” logistics concept • Knowing where every asset is becomes critical • Loads may be “redirected” or may need to use alternate routes due to damage/debris/fuel issues • That capability may need to operate without landline/cellular communication

  5. Security • Localized lawlessness does occur in disaster zones • Local authorities may “appropriate” • Security applies to the operator, the power unit, the trailer, the load, and the staging area • Security is an issue en route and at destination

  6. Regulations • Regulation comes from multiple levels • Federal • State/Local • Often operators are scarce, so extended hours may be appropriate • Often overloads are appropriate • Use of untaxed fuel may be necessary • Access to waivers is key • Waivers may be needed far outside the disaster zone • The Katrina waiver period is much longer than previously experienced; waivers must be maintained

  7. Identification • Disaster response loads should receive appropriate treatment • Many private sector haulers get involved • Sometimes multiple levels of contracting occur • During Katrina, a “FEMA letter” was provided to verify the mission • A separate letter was provided to certify access to scarce fuel supplies

  8. Delays • Disaster logistics is an inexact science • Politics may outweigh expertise, resulting in complications and challenges • Delays may result from processing time • Delays may result from labor shortages • Delays may result from routing problems • Delays may result from lack of communication of key issues or information

  9. Conclusions • Disaster response is: • Somewhat like regular hauling • Somewhat unlike regular hauling • Flexibility is key • Understanding the process is essential • Communication makes it much easier to do

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