Marking, Labelling, and Placarding
What must appear where
Packages carry the UN number, the proper shipping name (where required), the hazard label(s), and any special marks such as the marine pollutant mark or limited quantity mark. Labels are diamond-shaped, colour-coded by class, and show the class number; subsidiary risk labels are also applied. Transport units (containers, vehicles, wagons) carry placards matching the hazard labels of the contents, plus the UN number where required, and the orange-coloured plate in some regimes. The marine pollutant mark is required for environmentally hazardous substances. Markings must be durable, legible, and placed so they remain visible after stowage.
Traps candidates fall into
- Applying a label for a subsidiary risk but omitting the primary label.
- Forgetting the UN number on the package or unit where required.
- Missing the marine pollutant mark for a Class 9 marine pollutant.
- Assuming placards are needed on every unit regardless of quantity; some quantity thresholds and exemptions apply.
Worked example
A drum of a Class 8 corrosive, PG II, with a 6.1 subsidiary risk and a marine pollutant. The package shows the Class 8 label, the Class 6.1 subsidiary label, the marine pollutant mark, and the UN number and proper shipping name. The container carrying it shows the Class 8 placard plus the marine pollutant placard where required.