(a) The provisions of this article shall apply equally to new and existing conditions; except, that existing conditions not in strict compliance with the terms of this article shall be permitted to continue where the exceptions do not constitute a distinct hazard to life or adjoining property.
(b) Nothing contained in this article shall be construed as applying to the transportation of any article or thing shipped in conformity with the regulations prescribed by the Interstate Commerce Commission nor as applying to the military forces of the United States.
(1978 Code Sec. 10-5)