Hazardous Materials Shipping Papers and Emergency Response Information
This domain covers the shipping paper - the document that travels with the load and tells enforcement and emergency responders exactly what is inside. Expect questions on the order of the basic description, the add-on entries, and where the paper must sit in the cab.
The basic description (section 172.202)
Written in this order: proper shipping name, hazard class or division, UN/NA identification number, packing group. The total quantity with unit of measure, plus the number and type of packages, must also appear. Example: "Paint, 3, UN1263, PG II, 12 drums, 600 lb." Some classes, such as Class 9 entries with no packing group assigned, omit the packing group.
Required add-ons
- RQ placed before the proper shipping name when the material is a hazardous substance at or above its reportable quantity.
- Waste before the proper shipping name for hazardous waste.
- The technical chemical name in parentheses for n.o.s. entries.
- A signed shipper's certification that the shipment is properly classified, described, packaged, marked, labeled, and in condition for transport.
- A 24-hour emergency response telephone number that is monitored at all times the material is in transit, with the name of the person or agency, plus emergency response information responders can use.
In the cab (section 177.817)
The paper must be within the driver's reach, visible to anyone entering the cab, and on top of other paperwork - never inside a package. Shippers and carriers retain copies for two years.
Worked example
A driver is handed a paper reading "UN1263, Paint, 3, 600 lb." Two defects: the ID number is written first instead of after the hazard class, and the packing group is missing entirely.
Traps
Putting the UN number ahead of the proper shipping name; a phone number that reaches voicemail at night; assuming an ERG guide number replaces the phone number; missing the signature line.