Packing, marking and labelling
What this domain tests
Questions here check that you can choose the right packaging for the packing group, read a UN specification mark, and state exactly which marks and labels a package, overpack or cargo transport unit must carry.
Packing
- Part 4 gives packing instructions: P for packagings, IBC for intermediate bulk containers, LP for large packagings. They combine general provisions (good quality, no reaction with contents, secure closures, no mixed packing unless permitted) with specific limits.
- UN packagings carry a specification mark. The code identifies the type (1A1 steel drum, 3H1 plastic jerrican) and the performance letter: X for PG I, II and III; Y for PG II and III; Z for PG III only.
- A Z-marked packaging may never be used for PG I or PG II goods.
Marking and labelling
- Packages bear the UN number preceded by 'UN', the proper shipping name for class 1 goods, hazard labels of 100 x 100 mm with subsidiary risk labels where required, orientation arrows for liquids in combination packagings, the marine pollutant mark and, where used, the limited quantity mark.
- Overpacks must display the same marks and labels unless they are visible through the overpack.
- Cargo transport units and vehicles are placarded, not labelled, and the placards are larger.
Worked example
Twenty 25-litre drums of a class 8 PG II corrosive. Reasoning: PG II requires Y or X performance, so a Z drum is rejected. Class 8 labels are applied, plus a subsidiary label if the DGL shows one. Each drum carries 'UN' plus the UN number. If the substance is a marine pollutant, the marine pollutant mark is added. Twenty-five litres exceeds the 1-litre limited quantity limit for PG II, so the limited quantity mark cannot be used. The overpack must carry the labels and marks if they are not visible.
Traps
- Confusing marking (UN number, marks) with labelling (hazard diamonds).
- Using Z packaging for PG II.
- Omitting subsidiary labels or overpack marks.