UN Shipping Descriptions and Identification Numbers

Finally, the Super Docket amendments authorized the use of United Nation s shipping descriptions and identification numbers for certain hazardous 

CONCEPTUAL OVERVIEW OF COMPLIANCE WITH THE HAZARDOUS MATERIALS REGULATORY PROGRAM 

the composition and characteristics of the material to be shipped must be determined. This is a critically important step in the process since the entire regulatory scheme is premised upon an accurate determination of the precise properties of the material to be shipped and, based on this determination, the proper classification of the material under the regulations. In this regard. Chapter 2 discusses various sources of information that can be used to assist in the identification of a material s particular properties. 

Second, after identifying the characteristics of the material, the material must be classified in accordance with the regulations, and the proper DOT shipping name must be chosen.  

If the material to be shipped is specified by name in the Hazardous Materials Table (Section 172.101), the classification and name selection process is relatively simple, since the proper name for purposes of the regulations is the name set forth in the Table and the hazard class for that particular material is listed in column 3 of the Table. Thus, for example, Nitrogen tetroxide, liquid is listed specifically in the Table, and is classified as a Poison A material for purposes of the regulations. 

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