HazMat Shipping Essentials: Hazard Classes

Introduction

• Presenter: Roger from Lion Technology
• Video series on shipping hazardous materials safely and legally
• Focus: Understanding the nine categories of hazardous materials (HazMat) recognized globally

Definition of Hazardous Material

• Regulated due to posing specific types of dangers during transportation (e.g., explosive, flammable, poisonous)
• Nine hazard classes with possible subcategories called divisions

Importance of Classification

• Responsibility lies with the shipper to classify materials based on hazards
• Compliance with U.S. DOT rules starts with accurate classification

Hazard Classes Overview

Hazard Class 1: Explosives

• Six divisions covering a range of materials from weapons to fireworks
• Includes chemical propellants, dynamite, detonators, etc.
• Some car airbags and seatbelt systems are classified under this class

Hazard Class 2: Gases

• Division 2.1: Flammable gases (e.g., butane, propane)
• Division 2.2: Non-flammable, non-poisonous gases (e.g., cryogenic gases)
• Division 2.3: Poisonous by inhalation gases (e.g., sulfur dioxide)

Hazard Class 3: Flammable and Combustible Liquids

• Liquids that ignite at low temperatures
• Commonly transported class in the U.S.
• Includes alcohols, fuels, acetone, benzene, etc.

Hazard Class 4: Flammable and Reactive Solids

• Division 4.1: Flammable/self-reactive solids (e.g., magnesium metal)
• Division 4.2: Spontaneously combustible materials (e.g., pyrophoric materials)
• Division 4.3: Dangerous when wet materials (e.g., sodium, zinc metal)

Hazard Class 5: Oxidizers and Organic Peroxides

• Division 5.1: Oxidizers that release oxygen (e.g., ammonium nitrate)
• Division 5.2: Organic peroxides, unstable and pose fire/explosion risks

Hazard Class 6: Toxic and Infectious Substances

• Division 6.1: Poisonous materials (excluding gases)
• Division 6.2: Infectious substances containing pathogens

Hazard Class 7: Radioactive Materials

• Includes nuclear waste and materials with radionuclides used in various applications

Hazard Class 8: Corrosive Materials

• Can damage human skin, steel, or aluminum
• Examples: sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid

Hazard Class 9: Miscellaneous Hazardous Materials

• For materials not fitting into Classes 1-8
• Upcoming detailed video on Class 9

Conclusion

• Correct classification is crucial for shipping decisions and legal compliance
• Encouragement to engage with Lion Technology resources for further learning

Additional Resources

• Hazmat Shipper Starter Guide (10-step guide)
• Lion's YouTube channel and social media for updates
• Lion's website for FAQs and other resources