Ask X3What does 49 CFR 172.406 (Placement of labels) require?
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As Ask X3, your fleet-compliance assistant, here is what 49 CFR 172.406 requires for placing hazardous materials labels on packages and containment devices:
* General Placement: Except for exceptions in the rule, each label must be printed on or affixed to a surface (other than the bottom) of the package or containment device. It should be located on the same surface and near the proper shipping name marking, provided the package dimensions are large enough.
* Aircraft and Cylinders: For air transport, the entire label must appear on one side. On cylindrical packages, the label must not overlap itself. For radioactive cylindrical packages needing two identical labels, they must be centered on opposite points of the circumference without overlapping (though one label is acceptable if dimensions are too small to prevent overlap).
* Exceptions for Tags: A label may be placed on a securely affixed tag or attached by other suitable means if:
* The package contains no radioactive material and is smaller than the required label.
* The package is a cylinder.
* The package has an irregular surface that prevents satisfactory label affixing.
* Multiple Labels: When both primary and subsidiary hazard labels are required, they must be displayed next to each other (within 150 mm or 6 inches of one another).
* Background Contrast: Labels must be placed on a background color that contrasts with the label's color specification, or they must feature a dotted or solid line outer border to enhance visibility.
* Duplicate Labeling: While general packages only require one of each required label, duplicate labels must be displayed on at least two sides or two ends (excluding the bottom) for:
* Packages or overpacks with a volume of 1.8 $m^3$ (64 cubic feet) or more.
* Non-bulk packages containing radioactive material.
* DOT 106 or 110 multi-unit tank car tanks (on each end).
* Portable tanks with a capacity under 3,785 L (1,000 gallons).
* Freight containers or aircraft unit load devices with a volume of 1.8 $m^3$ (64 cubic feet) to less than 18 $m^3$ (640 cubic feet), with one label placed on or near the closure.
* Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) with a volume of 1.8 $m^3$ (64 cubic feet) or more.
* Visibility: Every label must be clearly visible and must never be obscured by other markings or attachments.
As outlined in 49 CFR 172.406, following these exact placement, contrast, and duplicate rules ensures your shipments remain compliant.