Shipping Hazardous Material

General Packaging Guidelines:

Refer to the U.S. DOT for specific regulations. This is meant to give you a general overview of the requirements.

Packaging for hazardous materials typically includes:

• Primary packaging (containers holding the hazardous material)
• Secondary packaging (protective packaging to prevent leaks or spills)
• Outer packaging (provides additional protection and houses the primary and secondary packaging)
• Extra cushioning and absorbent materials as needed

Labeling requirements include:

• Proper shipping name: The accurate name of the hazardous material.
• UN number: A unique four-digit number assigned to each dangerous material.
• Hazard class: The class of dangerous material.
• Packing group: A classification that indicates the level of danger within a hazard class.
• Symbols and pictograms: Visual representations of hazards, such as flame or toxic symbols.
• Emergency contact information: Information to reach responsible parties in case of emergencies.

Impact on Transportation:

Proper packaging, labeling, and classification are critical to ensuring the safety of individuals, the environment, and transportation personnel. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in accidents, leaks, spills, fires, and even explosions during transportation.

Transportation authorities, carriers, and shippers must follow these regulations:

• Prevent accidents and emergencies during transportation.
• Protect transportation personnel and the general public from exposure to hazardous materials.
• Minimize the risk of environmental contamination.
• Facilitate emergency response in case of accidents.

Modes of Transporation with Hazardous Materials

Different modes of transportation (air, sea, road, rail) have their own sets of regulations and guidelines for transporting hazardous materials.

Air Transportation:

Following the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations is essential when sending dangerous materials by air. These rules protect everyone on the plane, including passengers, crew, and cargo. 

Here are some key points to consider:

• Restrictions: Some hazardous materials are prohibited from air transport due to their potential risks. Others may be allowed under specific conditions or restrictions.
• Packaging and Labeling: Packaging for air transport must meet IATA’s requirements, which may differ from other modes. Proper labeling, markings, and documentation are crucial for air shipments.
• Quantity Limits: IATA sets quantity limits for specific hazardous materials on passenger and cargo aircraft to ensure safety.
• Security Measures: Hazardous materials may require additional security measures, such as screening and inspection, to prevent tampering or unauthorized access.

Ocean Transportation:

Transporting hazardous materials by sea follows the guidelines of the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code. Details to consider:

• Segregation and Stowage: Different hazardous materials must be properly segregated to prevent reactions or dangerous interactions. Stowage requirements ensure safe placement on vessels.
• Container Types: Hazardous materials may require specific types of containers to prevent leaks, spills, or reactions with the container material.
• Emergency Procedures: Ships must have proper emergency plans and equipment to handle hazardous material incidents at sea.
• Container Inspection: Shipping containers carrying hazardous materials must undergo thorough inspections and checks to ensure compliance.

Road Transportation:

Road transport of hazardous materials within a country is subject to national regulations, such as those outlined by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). Key considerations include:

• Placarding: Vehicles transporting specific quantities or types of hazardous materials must display placards indicating the hazard’s nature.
• Driver Training: Drivers of vehicles carrying hazardous materials must undergo specialized training to ensure they are aware of proper handling, emergency response, and regulatory requirements.
• Route Planning: Some hazardous materials are restricted from specific routes or areas, and drivers must plan routes accordingly.

Rail Transportation:

Transporting hazardous materials by rail also involves adherence to national regulations, often aligned with DOT guidelines. Key points include:

• Train Consists: Trains transporting hazardous materials must follow specific configurations and arrangements to ensure safety.
• Communication: Rail carriers must have efficient communication systems to relay information about the hazardous materials being transported.
• Emergency Response: Rail cars carrying hazardous materials must have proper emergency response equipment, and rail personnel should be trained to handle hazardous material incidents.

Emergency Contacts:

Shippers of hazardous materials should provide accurate and up-to-date emergency contact information on shipping documents. The appropriate parties can be reached in an emergency for guidance and support. A common emergency response company is Chemtrec. Their services do require registration.