There are 9 different Hazard Classes of dangerous goods, each with its own label:
- Class 1: Explosives
- Class 2: Gases
- Class 3: Flammable Liquids
- Class 4: Flammable Solids
- Class 5: Oxidizing Substances and Organic Peroxides
- Class 6: Toxic and Infectious Substances
- Class 7: Radioactive Materials
- Class 8: Corrosives
- Class 9: Miscellaneous Products, Substances, or Organisms
Class 1: Explosives
Definition: Explosives are hazardous goods that can cause explosions, projectiles, fires, or release toxic gases. There are six different divisions of explosives.
Examples: Fireworks, ammunition, flares, etc.
Class 2: Gases
Definition: Gases are products or substances that are under pressure. They are classified into three divisions based on their hazards, including flammable, non-flammable, and toxic gases. There are three different divisions of gases.
Examples: Spray paints, propane, fire extinguishers, etc.
Class 3: Flammable Liquids
Definition: Liquids meeting flammability criteria; can cause fires or explosions.
Examples: Gasoline, diesel, paints, alcohols, part cleaners, etc.
Class 4: Flammable Solids, Substances Liable to Spontaneous Combustion, and Water-Reactive Substances
Definition: materials that can ignite through friction, react explosively with water or oxygen, or during normal conditions of transport. There are three different divisions for Class 4.
Examples: Matches, fire starters, sulphur, etc.
Class 5: Oxidizing Substances and Organic Peroxides
Definition: comprises materials that can explosively decompose, burn rapidly, react dangerously with other substances, or cause eye damage, and may be sensitive to impact or friction. There are two divisions of class 5.
Examples: Pool chemicals, fertilizers, urinal cakes, etc.
Class 6: Toxic and Infectious Substances
Definition: consists of materials that can cause severe harm or even death if swallowed, inhaled, or touched. Additionally, medical or clinical waste might fall under this class if it contains regulated properties.There are 2 divisions in class 6.
Examples: Chloroform, bacteria, viruses, etc.
Class 7: Radioactive Materials
Definition: includes substances that emit energy that can break down atoms and molecules. High levels of radiation from these materials can harm tissues, bones, and may lead to cancer. Packaging for radioactive materials is specifically designed to minimize exposure. Radioactive materials are categorized based on the Transport Index, rather than Packing Groups.
Examples: nuclear medicines, and equipment used in the medical, mining and pipeline industries.
Class 8: Corrosives
Definition: Corrosives capable of harming living tissue upon contact, including when their vapors are inhaled. They can also corrode metals like steel or aluminium and have the potential to ignite combustible materials.
Examples: battery acid and hydrochloric acid.
Class 9: Miscellaneous Products, Substances, or Organisms
Definition: items that don't fit into the other classes but can still be hazardous if they spill during transportation. This class covers products and substances that:
- Pose risks to human health, although they may not be poisonous.
- Might contain materials harmful to the environment.
- Could cause harm under specific transport conditions or modes.
Examples: dry ice, lithium cells and batteries