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.

Request a demo

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

Course Level Intermediate
Languages English
Compatibility Audio, Video
Based on: HMR Labeling Requirements, 49 CFR § 172 Subpart E

Author

Vector Solutions

With over two decades of experience designing advanced 3D animated courseware and developing our proprietary learning management software, we pride ourselves by having developed over 1,000 safety and operations training modules, which have helped train over 250,000 workers worldwide. Our highly experienced team provides the industry with a simple and high-quality means of training their workforce. Whether your team consists of 25 people or an enterprise with thousands, we’re here to help.

Key Questions

What is the difference between the terms “packaging” and “package”?
“Packaging” refers to the container(s) and other materials used to contain hazardous materials, while “package” refers to the packaging and its contents (hazardous materials).

Why are hazardous material packages marked and labeled when they are shipped?
To communicate the hazards and risks of the materials being transported to anyone who could potentially be exposed to them.

Can international “dangerous goods” labels be used in place of DOT hazmat labels during transportation in the U.S.?
Labels required by several international organizations for shipments of Dangerous Goods (the international term for hazardous materials) may be used in place of or in addition to DOT hazmat labels.

For small packages, can hazmat labels be smaller than the requirements listed in the HMR?
The labels can be smaller but the symbol and other elements on the labels must remain “clearly visible.”

Why is there no text on some hazmat labels? Is this acceptable?
A text description of the hazard is optional (it is not required), except for Class 7 Radioactive materials. When text is included, it must meet the size requirements in the HMR.

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.

Course Applies To

Demos + Pricing

Learn more about our courses, get pricing, and see our platform.

Trusted by 24,000+ Industry Leaders