DOT Hazmat – Marking
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 these markings and labels is to communicate the hazards and risks of the materials being transported to anyone who could be exposed to them. All markings must be legible and durable; clearly visible; written in English; printed on or affixed to the package surface or a label, tag, or sign; and placed away from other markings (such as advertising) that could substantially reduce their effectiveness. DOT marking requirements are detailed in Part 172, Subpart D of the HMR.
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Learning Objectives
• Define the terms “hazardous material,” “packaging,” “package,” “bulk packaging,” and “non-bulk packaging,” as defined in the Hazardous Material Regulations (HMR) • Identify the responsibilities of shippers, carriers, and drivers for hazardous material shipments • List general packaging requirements for hazardous materials • Identify UN POP marks, Box Maker’s Certificates, and “Glass – Handle with care,” “Keep dry,” and “Upright position” markings • Identify general, material-specific, and packaging-specific marking requirements for bulk and non-bulk packaging • Identify the DOT markings used to identify marine pollutants, radioactive materials, poisons, self-reactive materials and organic peroxides, explosives, regulated medical waste, and elevated temperature materials
Specs
| Course Level | Intermediate |
| Languages | English |
| Compatibility | Audio, Video |
| Based on: | HMR Marking Requirements, 49 CFR § 172 Subpart D |
Key Questions
What is the significance of UN Performance Oriented Packaging (POP) certification?
UN POP certification indicates that packaging is capable of passing performance tests that are designed to mimic the forces experienced during transport.
Why is it important to maintain some vacant space in containers being used to transport liquid hazardous materials?
Liquids often expand when they are heated, so some “vapor space” (or “outage”) must remain to ensure that leakage or permanent distortion of the packaging does not occur.
Where can I find the Proper Shipping Name and ID number for a hazardous material?
These can be found in the Hazardous Materials Table in Section 172.101 of the HMR.
What markings are required on Limited Quantity packagings?
These require an ID number and the Limited Quantity marking on at least one side or one end, unless transported by air.
When is the MARINE POLLUTANT marking required on packagings?
The MARINE POLLUTANT mark is required on non-bulk packaging only when transported by water and bulk packaging when transported by all modes.
Sample Video Transcript
Unless otherwise specified, all packaging used to contain hazardous materials for transport must meet the United Nations’ Performance Oriented Packaging (UN POP) standards. UN POP certification indicates that the packaging is capable of passing performance tests that are designed to mimic the forces experienced during transport. Corrugated boxes, drums, portable tanks, cargo tanks, and many other types of packaging can be certified, which is indicated by a UN POP mark. Shippers assembling UN packaging must follow the manufacturer’s assembly instructions in order for the packaging to meet the UN performance requirement.
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