The primary function of hazmat packaging is to ensure that hazardous materials remain intact and secure during transportation. All packagings must be designed to ensure that under normal conditions, the contents will not be released and the packaging effectiveness will be maintained as it experiences typical physical stresses, including shocks, vibrations, temperature extremes, and changes in humidity and pressure. The Hazardous Materials Table (HMT) in Section 172.101 of the HMR can be used to determine the non-bulk and bulk packaging requirements, and any conditions for packaging exceptions, for hazardous material shipments.
Learning Objectives
At the end of this module, you will be able to:
- Define the terms "hazardous material," "dangerous goods," "packaging," "package," "limited quantity," "excepted quantity," and "consumer commodity"
- Identify when the Hazardous Materials Regulations, IMDG Code, IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, and UN Recommendations apply
- Demonstrate how to determine packaging exceptions and authorized packagings, and how to apply Special Provisions
- Describe the purpose and application of DOT Special Permits
- Show how Packing Group performance levels in UN POP marks are applied
- List general HMR packaging requirements and common exceptions
- Identify where the requirements for limited quantity and excepted quantity shipments can be found