DOT Hazmat – Labeling
The packaging used to secure hazardous materials during transport typically contains markings and labels to indicate that it contains a hazardous material. The purpose of marking and labeling is to communicate the hazards and risks of the materials being transported to anyone who could potentially be exposed to them.“Labeling” refers to the placement of primary and, if applicable, subsidiary hazard labels on the outer package. DOT labeling requirements are contained in Part 172, Subpart E of the HMR.





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Course Details
Learning Objectives
• Define the terms hazardous material, packaging, package, bulk packaging, non-bulk packaging, marking, and labeling • Identify who is responsible for non-compliant hazardous material shipments • Use the Hazardous Materials Table and HMR to determine the required hazard labels for a package • List the international labels that can be used in place of or in addition to DOT hazmat labels • List durability, size, color, and placement requirements for DOT labels • Identify non-compliant hazmat packages
Specs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the terms “packaging” and “package”?
Why are hazardous material packages marked and labeled when they are shipped?
Can international “dangerous goods” labels be used in place of DOT hazmat labels during transportation in the U.S.?
For small packages, can hazmat labels be smaller than the requirements listed in the HMR?
Why is there no text on some hazmat labels? Is this acceptable?
Sample Video Transcript
The packaging used to secure hazardous materials during transport typically contains markings and labels to indicate that it contains a hazardous material. The purpose of marking and labeling is to communicate the hazards and risks of the materials being transported to anyone who could potentially be exposed to them. The term “marking” refers to the placement of required information on the outer package containing the hazardous material. This typically includes a Proper Shipping Name, identification number, a specification or UN POP mark, and any other required information, instructions, or cautions. “Labeling” refers to the placement of primary and, if applicable, subsidiary hazard labels on the outer package. DOT marking and labeling requirements are contained, respectively, in Subparts D and E in Part 172 of the HMR.