What does 49 CFR 173.11 (Exceptions for shipment of light bulbs containing hazardous materials) require?

Short answer

49 CFR 173.11 requires that light bulbs containing hazardous materials meet specific packaging and shipping requirements to be exempt from other regulations in the subchapter. There are four exceptions for shipment of light bulbs containing hazardous materials.

The rule says

"Light bulbs that are collected directly from individuals and households when transported to a collection or recycling facility." (49 CFR 173.11(a))

"Light bulbs each containing not more than 1 g of hazardous materials and packaged so that there is not more than 30 g of hazardous materials per package." (49 CFR 173.11(b))

"Used, damaged, defective light bulbs each containing not more than 1 g of hazardous materials and packaged so that there is not more than 30 g of hazardous materials per package when transported from a collection or recycling facility." (49 CFR 173.11(c))

"Light bulbs containing only gases of Division 2.2 provided they are packaged so that the projectile effects of any rupture of the bulb will be contained within the package." (49 CFR 173.11(d))

In plain English

These exceptions allow for the transportation of light bulbs containing hazardous materials under specific conditions, such as collection from households or packaging with limited quantities of hazardous materials. The goal is to balance safety with practical considerations for handling and shipping these items. Inspectors will check for compliance with these exceptions, including proper packaging and documentation.

What to do

• Verify the type and quantity of hazardous materials in the light bulbs.
• Ensure proper packaging according to the exceptions outlined in 49 CFR 173.11.
• Document the shipment according to the relevant regulations.
• Train personnel on the handling and shipping of light bulbs containing hazardous materials.