Ask X3What does 49 CFR 173.2a (Classification of a material having more than one hazard) require?
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Short answer
49 CFR 173.2a requires that a material with multiple hazards be classified according to the highest applicable hazard class. The regulation lists the hazard classes in descending order of hazard, with Class 7 (radioactive materials) being the highest and Class 9 (miscellaneous hazardous materials) being the lowest.
The rule says
"A material not specifically listed in the 172.101 Table or assigned to an entry of articles containing hazardous materials (UN3537 to UN3548) that meets the definition of more than one hazard class or division as defined in this part, shall be classed according to the highest applicable hazard class of the following hazard classes, which are listed in descending order of hazard: (1) Class 7 (radioactive materials, other than limited quantities; and shipments of UN 3507, Uranium hexafluoride, radioactive material, excepted package)" (49 CFR 173.2a)
In plain English
In practice, this means that when a material has multiple hazards, the shipper must determine the highest hazard class and use that classification for transportation purposes. For example, if a material is both flammable and corrosive, it would be classified as a flammable liquid (Class 3) rather than a corrosive material (Class 8).
What to do
- Determine the hazard classes of the material
- Identify the highest applicable hazard class
- Classify the material according to the highest hazard class
- Use the correct packaging, labeling, and handling requirements for the classified material