Many chemicals and chemical products are considered dangerous goods in transport. Therefore, special rules must be followed when transporting such products.
Previously, I wrote about how to identify if a product is considered a dangerous good in transport. Today, we'll look at the exceptions that apply to transporting smaller packaging units of dangerous goods.
My colleague Simona Miklavčič has prepared an excellent overview of the obligations and exceptions for smaller packaging units, which I share below.
The transport of dangerous goods packed in smaller packages – packaging units is usually carried out as an ADR exception.
What are smaller packaging units?
These are products packed in quantities that are equal to or less than the limited quantity for a specific product. The limited quantity depends on the product's hazard level. The more hazardous the product, the smaller the limited quantity. The limited quantity can be, for example, 0 kg, 500 ml, 1 kg, 5 l,...
Where can we find information on the limited quantity for a specific product?
This information can be found in section 14 of the safety data sheet, where transport information is provided. One of the details is the limited quantity (LQ - Limited Quantity).
It's important to note: small packaging units must be packed in outer packaging – a transport box or wrapping film. The gross weight of the transport packaging in a cardboard box can be up to 30 kg, and in the case of wrapping film, up to 20 kg.
Such prepared packaging must be marked with an LQ label measuring 10 cm x 10 cm:
If there is a larger quantity of such packed dangerous goods (over 8 tons gross), vehicles need to be marked with similar LQ plates.
If the inner packaging contains liquid chemicals, the packaging (outer transport cardboard box or wrapping film) needs to be marked with directional arrows on two opposite sides.
To make the packaging easier to understand, we have prepared an image:
For transporting limited quantities – small packaging units, NO transport document is required.
Similarly, NO UN certification is required for the packaging (inner and transport).
The driver does NOT need an ADR certificate.
Vehicles are NOT marked with ADR orange plates.
Have you had any experience with transporting smaller packaging units of dangerous goods? Let me know at nina.pajovic@bens-consulting.eu.
nina.pajovic@bens-consulting.eu
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