Safety marks are used to show the hazards of these goods. They might be labels, signs, or other markings on the container holding the goods.
Examples of some safety marks include:
Safety marks help people quickly figure out what kind of danger a dangerous good might pose. They show the type of danger and the nature of the goods.
Labels are usually on small containers, and placards are on larger ones. Placards need to be on the container before it is packed or loaded. The marks have to be visible, durable, and against a contrasting background. They also need to be the right size, shape, and colour. Finally, they must follow specific requirements for the type of packaging.
You can learn more about safety marks in Part 4 of the Regulations. Follow the link here for information on how to meet the requirements for safety marks.
Purpose of Safety Marks:
Safety marks are vital warning signs that provide crucial information about the dangerous goods being transported. They help identify hazards, assist responders during emergencies, and ensure clear identification for all involved in transportation.
Display of Safety Marks:
Safety marks must be displayed on the means of containment containing dangerous goods during transport. These marks include labels, placards, white and orange panels, signs, marine pollutant marks, numbers, letters, abbreviations, and words that indicate the nature of the danger posed by the goods.Safety marks must be:
- Displayed in the colors specified in the UN recommendations
- Visible and Legible
- Displayed against a background of contrasting color
- Made of durable and weather resistant material
- Replaced if it becomes damaged, falls off, or if the color or numbers fade or otherwise deteriorate
- Displayed as a diamond shape
- Displayed on one of the four sides, not the top or bottom
Responsibilities:
Consignor/Shipper Responsibilities:
Before sending dangerous goods for transport, the consignor must:
- Put the right safety marks on each small and large container.
- Give the carrier the placards for the shipment if required.
Carrier Responsibilities:
While moving the goods, the carrier must:
- Keep the safety signs on small containers.
- Put safety signs on big containers.
- Change or remove the safety signs if the rules for them change, example: if more dangerous goods are added or taken away.
Consignee / Receiver Responsibilities:
After the goods are unloaded at the consignee’s place, the TDG rules don't apply anymore. Instead, other rules like WHMIS or fire codes apply.
Characteristics of Safety Marks:
Safety marks must be visible, legible, and displayed against a contrasting background. They must also be made of durable, weather-resistant material and designed in the appropriate size and orientation.
Safety Marks for Small and Large Means of Containment:
Different types of containers, such as boxes, cylinders, totes, drums, and portable containers, have specific requirements for displaying safety marks based on their size and shape. Large means of containment, including totes, intermodal tanks, and bulk shipments, also have specific placarding requirements.
Other Safety Marks and Removal of Safety Marks:
In addition to UN numbers, labels, and placards, other safety marks like fumigation signs, elevated temperature signs, and inhalation hazard signs may be required in certain situations. These signs must be displayed according to specific regulations and guidelines.