How does the hazmat segregation and loading table work under 49 CFR 177.848?

Short answer

The hazmat segregation and loading table under 49 CFR 177.848 is used to determine which hazardous materials can be loaded, transported, or stored together in the same transport vehicle or storage facility. The table indicates restrictions on mixing certain materials, with "X indicating materials that cannot be mixed and .O" indicating materials that can be mixed if separated properly.

The rule says

"The letter X in the table indicates that these materials may not be loaded, transported, or stored together in the same transport vehicle or storage facility during the course of transportation." (49 CFR 177.848(e)(2))

"The letter O in the table indicates that these materials may not be loaded, transported, or stored together in the same transport vehicle or storage facility during the course of transportation unless separated in a manner that, in the event of leakage from packages under conditions normally incident to transportation, commingling of hazardous materials would not occur." (49 CFR 177.848(e)(3))

In plain English

It helps prevent the mixing of incompatible materials that could lead to accidents, fires, or other hazards. The table is used to determine which materials can be loaded together and which require separation. For example, corrosive liquids (Class 8) cannot be loaded above or adjacent to flammable (Class 4) or oxidizing (Class 5) materials, unless the shipper can demonstrate that the mixture will not cause a fire or dangerous reaction.

What to do

• Use the hazmat segregation and loading table to determine which materials can be loaded together.
• Ensure that incompatible materials are separated properly to prevent commingling in the event of leakage.
• Verify that the shipper has properly classified and labeled the hazardous materials.
• Check the table for any specific requirements or restrictions on the materials being transported.