RTO Hazardous Goods Test flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

UN hazard classes

Nine classes from 1 explosives to 9 miscellaneous; a substance's class is set by its dominant hazard, and most classes are split into divisions that refine label and segregation rules.

Packing group

A ranking within most classes: I great danger, II medium danger, III minor danger. It sets packaging performance level and documentation requirements, and is distinct from the transport category threshold.

Flash point

The lowest temperature at which a liquid gives off enough vapour to ignite. A closed-cup flash point at or below 60 C generally makes the liquid Class 3 flammable.

Subsidiary risk

A secondary hazard of a substance beyond its primary class, shown by an additional label and used in segregation decisions. It does not change the primary class on the placard.

Hazard identification number

A Kemler code on the upper half of an orange placard. The first digit is the primary hazard, later digits are subsidiary hazards, and a leading X means reaction with water is dangerous.

Orange placard size

Placards are at least 250 by 250 mm, mounted on both sides and the rear of the vehicle. The upper half carries the hazard identification number, the lower half the UN number.

Elevated temperature mark

Required when a liquid is carried at 100 C or above, or a solid at 240 C or above. It is a separate marking, not a hazard label, and has its own placement rules.

Limited quantity mark

A specific mark used instead of full labels and placards on small packages under quantity limits; for limited quantities the mark must also show the UN number.

Proper shipping name

The name from the dangerous goods list, including any qualifying words in parentheses. Trade names alone are not acceptable on the transport document.

Transport document contents

Must show UN number, proper shipping name, class, packing group, number and kind of packages, total quantity, consignor, consignee, and a monitored emergency telephone number.

Shipper's declaration

The consignor's signed statement that the goods are fully and accurately described, correctly classified, packed, marked, and in proper condition for transport.

Empty uncleaned packaging

Retains its hazard, so it still needs the last contents' UN number and proper shipping name on the document, must be closed, and is carried under the same restrictions.

UN packaging code

A mark showing packaging type, performance level (X for group I, Y for II, Z for III), and the specific gravity or pressure it was tested to.

Packing instruction

A numbered rule keyed to the UN number and packing group that lists permitted packaging types and their required performance level.

Segregation of classes

Incompatible classes must be kept apart: oxidizers away from flammables, acids away from cyanides, and Class 1 away from most other classes, using separate compartments or distance.

Combination packaging closure

Inner and outer packagings must be closed and cushioned so that under normal transport conditions nothing leaks or breaks, with absorbent where the instruction requires it.

Load securing

Every package must be restrained against movement, heavy items placed low, and the load kept within axle and gross weight limits. Nothing may block the view or exits.

Cylinder stowage

Class 2 cylinders are carried upright with valves protected and secured so they cannot fall. Never roll or drop them, and keep them away from heat sources.

Loading safety basics

Engine off, parking brake set, wheels chocked, level surface, no smoking or open flame. Load away from the exhaust and hot surfaces.

Load check before unloading

Verify goods match the transport document, inspect for leaks, damage, or shifted loads, and record any discrepancy before opening or removing packages.

Vehicle fire equipment

At least one inspected fire extinguisher of the specified size, wheel chock, warning triangle, spare wheel or repair kit, and personal protective equipment.

Fire in the cargo

Do not fight a fire that has reached the cargo. Withdraw upwind, keep clear, and let emergency responders handle it, giving the UN number and shipping name.

Incident first actions

Stop, secure the scene, warn other traffic, call emergency services, and give the UN number and proper shipping name from the transport document.

Spill kit use

Absorbent, containment, and PPE let the driver contain a small leak. Do not attempt to contain a large or reactive spill; stay upwind and keep ignition sources away.

Dangerous goods endorsement

A licence endorsement or vocational certificate required in addition to the vehicle-class licence, carried in the cab and shown to enforcement officers on request.

Refresher training

Periodic retraining, commonly every five years, plus retraining after a change in goods carried or a serious incident. The certificate must stay valid and be carried.

Driver fitness duties

No alcohol or impairing drugs; declare medical conditions and medications affecting alertness; observe driving-time and rest limits; do not drive when unfit.

Pre-departure vehicle check

The driver confirms brakes, tyres, fire extinguisher, and load security before departure, and refuses goods for classes not covered by their training.

Tunnel restriction code

A code on the goods entry showing which tunnel categories may be used. Categories A to E progressively restrict more goods, with E banning most dangerous goods.

Parking a loaded vehicle

Park in a secure area away from dwellings, crowds, and ignition sources. Never leave a loaded vehicle unattended in a public place; chock wheels and apply the brake.

Urban route rules

Use designated dangerous goods routes; avoid residential streets, pedestrian zones, and underpasses unless permitted; check bridge, ferry, and tunnel quantity limits first.

Reportable incident

A spill, leak, fire, uncontrolled release, or any event needing emergency services or roadside assistance, reported with UN number, name, quantity, and location.