Hazard communication: labels, placards, and markings
What this domain tests
This domain tests how you communicate a hazard to everyone who handles or meets the vehicle. Labels are fixed to packages; placards are fixed to the vehicle; markings and emergency information panels give the UN number, class and emergency contact. Communication must match the transport document exactly.
Core rules
- Package labels show the hazard class symbol, class number and, where required, the UN number and proper shipping name.
- Vehicle placards must show the primary hazard class and remain visible from the sides and rear. A mixed load may need more than one placard.
- The emergency information panel should identify the substance by UN number and class and give a 24-hour emergency telephone number.
- Old placards must be removed or completely covered before a different product is loaded. Dirt, tarpaulin and load restraints must not hide them.
- Orientation arrows, overpack markings and marine pollutant marks may apply where the package or route requires them.
Worked example
A tanker carries UN 1830 SULPHURIC ACID, Class 8, PG II. Reasoning: the primary hazard is corrosion, so the package label and vehicle placard must show the Class 8 corrosive symbol. The emergency information panel must show UN 1830 and an emergency contact. A Class 9 placard is wrong because the primary class is 8; a label alone is wrong for the vehicle because placards are the vehicle-level communication.
Traps
Placing a placard on only one side; using a package label instead of a vehicle placard; leaving an old UN number visible; hiding placards under a tarpaulin; forgetting that a mixed load may need several placards.