A Look at Hazmat Classification Basics

A Background on Hazmat Classification Basics

New to Hazmat Classification or looking to get some basics?  We've got you covered. 

All materials or a substances that are identified by the Department of Transportation to pose an unreasonable risk to safety, health, and property, when transported in commerce are designated as hazardous materials.

Any company that ships or transports hazardous materials must:

Identify all hazardous materials and provide a classification for each hazardous material.

A classification requires you to:

Determine the appropiate identification number, proper shipping name and hazard classes or divisions for each hazardous material, and assign a packing group when required.

Hazard classes and divisions identify the types of hazards. Materials that pose multiple risks require more than one hazard class.

Hazmat Hazard Classes and Divisions

Class 1 – Explosives

Blasting agents
Materials with a projection hazard
Materials with a mass explosion hazard
Materials with predominately a fire hazard
Highly insensitive detonating devices
Materials with no significant blast hazard

Class 2 – Gasses

Gases toxic by inhalation
Flammable gases
Non-toxic, non-flammable
Oxygen

Class 3 – Flammable Liquids

Combustible liquid 
Flammable liquids
Fuel/Oil
Gasoline

Class 4 – Flammable Solids

Flammable solids
Spontaneously combustible materials
Dangerous when wet materials

Class 5 — Oxidizing Agents and Organic Peroxides

Oxidizing Agent
Organic Peroxide Oxidizing Agent
 

Class 6 – Toxic and Infections Substances

Poisonous material
Biohazard material

Class 7 – Radioactive Material

Class 8 – Corrosive Material

Class 9 – Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods

Of course, these classes and sub-categories can require extensive research and knowledge.  And the regulations and requirements are always changing. It is always best to approach hazmat classification with the proper set of knowledge and skills to ensure safety for everyone.

If you aren't sure or don't know – rely on someone who does!

How Does Hazmat Classification Effect Me?

If you or your employees perform a function that requires you to know even the basics about Hazmat Classification you are requiredn to have the proper training!  

TCA offers a variety of training options in addition to long term training solutions.  We can provide the online training modules which can be loaded into your learning management systems, without any individual user license fees. Your training modules will be updated as the regulations change.

If you are interested in learning more about this and other training solutions we can provide, contact us today!