Ask X3What does 49 CFR 172.202 (Description of hazardous material on shipping papers) require?
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Short answer
The shipping description of a hazardous material on the shipping paper must include the identification number, proper shipping name, hazard class or division number, and packaging information.
The rule says
"The shipping description of a hazardous material on the shipping paper must include: (1) The identification number prescribed for the material as shown in Column (4) of the 172.101 table; (2) The proper shipping name prescribed for the material in Column (2) of the 172.101 table; (3) The hazard class or division number prescribed for the material, as shown in Column (3) of the 172.101 table." (49 CFR 172.202(a))
In plain English
This means that when you're shipping hazardous materials, your shipping papers need to have very specific information about what's being shipped, including its ID number, shipping name, and hazard class. If you're shipping multiple types of materials, the hazardous materials need to be clearly identified and separated from non-hazardous materials on the shipping paper.
What to do
- Ensure that all shipping papers for hazardous materials include the required identification number, proper shipping name, and hazard class or division number.
- Verify that the information is presented in the correct format and sequence, as specified in 49 CFR 172.202.
- Train personnel on the importance of accurate and complete shipping paper information for hazardous materials.
- Regularly review and audit shipping papers to ensure compliance with 49 CFR 172.202.