Hazard Communication: Shipping Papers, Marking, Labeling, and Placarding
The shipping paper
A shipping paper must carry a basic description in the correct order: UN/NA identification number, proper shipping name, hazard class or division (with subsidiary hazard in parentheses), and packing group - for example, UN1203, Gasoline, 3, PG II. The ID number may follow the proper shipping name for domestic shipments but must precede it for international ones. The paper also needs the total quantity, the number and type of packages, a shipper's certification, and a 24-hour emergency response telephone number. It must be tabbed or clearly distinguished, kept within the driver's reach while driving (a door-side holder is acceptable), and turned over with the freight.
Marking, labeling, placarding
Markings go on the package (proper shipping name, ID number where required, orientation arrows, RQ). Labels are the small diamond hazard warnings applied to non-bulk packages, including subsidiary labels. Placards are the large diamonds on the vehicle: one on each side and each end.
Placarding has two tables. Table 1 materials (for example 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2.3, 4.3, 6.1 PG I, and certain radioactive) must be placarded at any quantity. Table 2 materials are placarded only when the aggregate gross weight of all Table 2 material reaches 1,001 pounds, or when they move in a bulk package. When two or more Table 2 categories meet the threshold and no Table 1 material is aboard, the single DANGEROUS placard may be used instead of individual placards.
Traps
Questions swap the order of the basic description, confuse labels (package) with placards (vehicle), or claim the driver must buy placards - the shipper normally supplies them, but the carrier may furnish them. Remember: 1,000 pounds does not trigger placarding; 1,001 does.
Worked example
A load of 600 lb of Class 3 and 500 lb of Class 8 totals 1,100 lb - over the threshold, no Table 1 material - so the driver may run DANGEROUS placards on all four sides.