Ask X3What does 49 CFR 173.412 (Additional design requirements for Type A packages) require?
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As Ask X3, your fleet-compliance assistant, here is what 49 CFR 173.412 requires for Type A packages:
In addition to the general design requirements in § 173.410, each Type A packaging must be designed with the following features:
* Tamper-evident feature: The outside must include a feature, such as a seal, that is not readily breakable and shows proof if the package has been opened (though for packages shipped in closed transport vehicles under exclusive use, the cargo compartment itself may be sealed instead of individual packages).
* Size: The smallest external dimension must be at least 10 cm (4 inches).
* Temperature range: Containment and shielding must be maintained during transport and storage between −40 °C (−40 °F) and 70 °C (158 °F), paying special attention to liquids and material degradation.
* Containment system closure: The containment system must be securely closed by a positive fastening device that cannot be opened unintentionally or by internal pressure during normal transport. If the containment system is a separate unit, its positive fastening device must be independent of any other part of the package.
* Chemical reactions: Account must be taken of radiolytic decomposition and gas generation by chemical reaction and radiolysis for each containment component.
* Pressure reduction: The containment system must retain its radioactive contents if ambient pressure drops to 60 kPa (8.7 psia).
* Valve enclosures: Any valve (other than a pressure relief device) must have an enclosure to catch any leakage.
* Radiation shields: Any radiation shield enclosing a containment component must prevent that component from accidentally escaping.
* Tie-down attachments: If a tie-down attachment is a structural part of the packaging, its failure under normal and accident conditions must not impair the package's ability to meet other subpart requirements.
* Performance standards: When evaluated against performance requirements and specified tests, the packaging must prevent the loss or dispersal of radioactive contents and stop any significant increase in external radiation levels.
* Liquid contents: Packages designed for liquids must provide ullage (empty space) for temperature variations, dynamic effects, and filling dynamics; meet specific liquid test conditions; and either:
1. Include enough compatible absorbent material to absorb twice the liquid volume, positioned to contact the liquid if it leaks; or
2. Use a containment system with primary inner and secondary outer components designed to completely enclose the liquid and retain it within the outer component if the inner component leaks.
* Gas contents: Packages designed for gases (with exceptions for certain levels of tritium or noble gases) must prevent the loss or dispersal of contents when subjected to specified tests.
For full details, please review 49 CFR 173.412.