Hazard Communication: Shipping Papers, Marking, Labels, Placards, Emergency Response Information
What this domain covers
Hazard communication tells responders, inspectors, and the next handler what is inside the package and what to do if it goes wrong. The exam tests shipping papers, marking, labels, placards, and emergency response information.
Shipping papers
Every hazmat shipment needs a shipping paper showing, in sequence, the UN/NA identification number, proper shipping name, hazard class or division, and packing group - for example, “UN1993, Flammable liquid, n.o.s. (contains methanol), 3, PG II.” It also carries total quantity, number and type of packages, the shipper’s certification, and a 24-hour emergency response telephone number. Keep it within immediate reach while restrained by the seat belt - a door pouch or clearly visible on the seat - and hand it to a responder on request.
Marking, labels, placards
- Non-bulk packages carry the proper shipping name and a hazard warning label (100 mm × 100 mm).
- Bulk packages and portable tanks carry the UN number and other markings.
- Placards are 273 mm square and go on both sides and both ends.
- Placard any quantity for Table 1 materials: Divisions 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.3, 4.3; Division 6.1 PG I Hazard Zone A or B; and Radioactive Yellow III.
- Placard Table 2 materials at 1,001 lb aggregate gross weight or more; at 5,000 lb or more each class must be placarded separately.
Worked example
You load 800 lb of Class 3 and 700 lb of Class 8. Neither class reaches 1,001 lb alone, but the aggregate is 1,500 lb, so the load must be placarded; on a mixed Table 2 load under 5,000 lb, the DANGEROUS placard is an accepted option in place of the specific placards.
Traps
Confusing the 1,001 lb threshold with 5,000 lb; forgetting Table 1 needs no threshold; treating a placard as a substitute for a label on the package; and listing the class before the UN number on the paper.