FMCSR 173.24F2-HMBPVM: Missing Internal Valve on Bulk HM Packages

Yes. Across all inspections in our database, this violation results in an out-of-service order 100% of the time. All 2 citations on record led to immediate OOS placement. This is significantly more severe than the 31.4% average OOS rate across all FMCSR codes. You cannot operate the vehicle until the missing internal valve is restored and reinspected.

1. Stop operations immediately. Your vehicle is out of service and cannot move even empty.
2. Contact your dispatcher/safety manager. Report the citation and OOS status.
3. Locate a qualified hazmat equipment repair facility. The internal valve must be installed by a technician certified for bulk package repairs.
4. Request a post-repair inspection. Once the valve is installed, schedule a roadside inspection or facility inspection to clear the OOS violation.
5. Keep all documentation. Retain repair receipts and inspection reports for your record.

This is extremely serious. While it ranks 2,651st out of 3,036 FMCSR codes by citation frequency (only 2 total citations), the 100% out-of-service rate places it in the highest severity tier. Compare this to peer hazmat loading/unloading violations: 177.834A has a 99.2% OOS rate with 3,954 citations, and 177.817(a) has a 97.9% OOS rate. Your violation matches that severity. The 31.4% all-FMCSR average OOS rate underscores how unusual and critical this finding is.

Our inspection database shows only 2 all-time citations for this violation, making state-level breakdown unreliable. Both carriers cited operated bulk hazmat shipments, suggesting this violation occurs where bulk package transport happens, but the extremely low citation count means it is not concentrated in any single state. The rarity of citations does not indicate lax enforcement—it indicates that most carriers maintain internal valves correctly.

Yes, you can file a DataQs (Database Quality System) request to contest the citation. The process allows you to challenge inspection findings through FMCSA's formal review system. Since this is an equipment defect (missing internal valve), your challenge must include evidence that the valve was present and functional at the time of inspection, or that the inspection was conducted improperly. Document any repairs made before the inspection and request the inspection report to review the officer's notes. Submit your DataQs request within the regulatory timeframe.

Immediate. The 100% out-of-service rate means your vehicle cannot be operated until the internal valve is installed and cleared by inspection. There were zero citations in the last 90 days and none in the last 12 months, but that reflects the rarity of the violation—not enforcement leniency. Every instance in our records resulted in OOS placement. The repair window is measured in hours, not days.

Across all inspections in our database, two carriers appear on record: ALL ISLAND FUEL OF MASTIC INC (USDOT 669105) with 1 citation, and AUTOTRANSPORTES ONPETROL DE MEXICO SA DE CV (USDOT 4034616) with 1 citation. Both operated bulk hazmat shipments. The extremely low citation count reflects either strong industry compliance or the specialized nature of bulk package operations. If you work for either carrier, escalate the finding to safety management immediately.

FMCSA CSA violations are recorded against both the driver and the carrier. The out-of-service order appears in your inspection history and your carrier's safety profile. If you were operating the vehicle when the violation was found, the citation is attributed to your record; the carrier's record is updated regardless of who was driving. Both can be flagged in future audits or compliance reviews. Carriers review driver citations during hiring, and insurers may review your full history.