Collapse to view only § 173.136 - Class 8—Definitions.

§ 173.115 - Class 2, Divisions 2.1, 2.2, and 2.3—Definitions.

(a) Division 2.1 (Flammable gas). For the purpose of this subchapter, a flammable gas (Division 2.1) means any material which is a gas at 20 °C (68 °F) or less and 101.3 kPa (14.7 psia) of pressure (a material which has a boiling point of 20 °C (68 °F) or less at 101.3 kPa (14.7 psia)) which—

(1) Is ignitable at 101.3 kPa (14.7 psia) when in a mixture of 13 percent or less by volume with air; or

(2) Has a flammable range at 101.3 kPa (14.7 psia) with air of at least 12 percent regardless of the lower limit. Except for aerosols, the limits specified in paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2) of this section shall be determined at 101.3 kPa (14.7 psia) of pressure and a temperature of 20 °C (68 °F) in accordance with the ASTM E681–85, Standard Test Method for Concentration Limits of Flammability of Chemicals or other equivalent method approved by the Associate Administrator. The flammability of aerosols is determined by the tests specified in paragraph (l) of this section.

(b) Division 2.2 (non-flammable, nonpoisonous compressed gas—including compressed gas, liquefied gas, pressurized cryogenic gas, compressed gas in solution, asphyxiant gas and oxidizing gas). For the purpose of this subchapter, a non-flammable, nonpoisonous compressed gas (Division 2.2) means any material (or mixture) which—

(1) Exerts in the packaging a gauge pressure of 200 kPa (29.0 psig/43.8 psia) or greater at 20 °C (68 °F), is a liquefied gas or is a cryogenic liquid, and

(2) Does not meet the definition of Division 2.1 or 2.3.

(c) Division 2.3 (Gas poisonous by inhalation). For the purpose of this subchapter, a gas poisonous by inhalation (Division 2.3) means a material which is a gas at 20 °C (68 °F) or less and a pressure of 101.3 kPa (14.7 psia) (a material which has a boiling point of 20 °C (68 °F) or less at 101.3 kPa (14.7 psia)) and which—

(1) Is known to be so toxic to humans as to pose a hazard to health during transportation, or

(2) In the absence of adequate data on human toxicity, is presumed to be toxic to humans because when tested on laboratory animals it has an LC50 value of not more than 5000 mL/m 3 (see § 173.116(a) of this subpart for assignment of Hazard Zones A, B, C or D). LC50 values for mixtures may be determined using the formula in § 173.133(b)(1)(i) or CGA P–20 (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter).

(d) Non-liquefied compressed gas. A gas, which when packaged under pressure for transportation is entirely gaseous at −50 °C (−58 °F) with a critical temperature less than or equal to −50 °C (−58 °F), is considered to be a non-liquefied compressed gas.

(e) Liquefied compressed gas. A gas, which when packaged under pressure for transportation is partially liquid at temperatures above −50 °C (−58 °F), is considered to be a liquefied compressed gas. A liquefied compressed gas is further categorized as follows:

(1) High pressure liquefied gas which is a gas with a critical temperature between −50 °C (−58 °F) and + 65 °C (149 °F), and

(2) Low pressure liquefied gas which is a gas with a critical temperature above + 65 °C (149 °F).

(f) Compressed gas in solution. A compressed gas in solution is a non-liquefied compressed gas which is dissolved in a solvent.

(g) Cryogenic liquid. A cryogenic liquid means a refrigerated liquefied gas having a boiling point colder than −90 °C (−130 °F) at 101.3 kPa (14.7 psia) absolute. A material meeting this definition is subject to requirements of this subchapter without regard to whether it meets the definition of a non-flammable, non-poisonous compressed gas in paragraph (b) of this section.

(h) Flammable range. The term flammable range means the difference between the minimum and maximum volume percentages of the material in air that forms a flammable mixture.

(i) Service pressure. The term service pressure means the authorized pressure marking on the packaging. For example, for a cylinder marked “DOT 3A1800”, the service pressure is 12410 kPa (1800 psig).

(j) Refrigerant gas or Dispersant gas. The terms Refrigerant gas and Dispersant gas apply to all nonpoisonous refrigerant gases; dispersant gases (fluorocarbons) listed in § 172.101 of this subchapter and §§ 173.304, 173.314(c), 173.315(a), and 173.315(h) and mixtures thereof; and any other compressed gas having a vapor pressure not exceeding 260 psia at 54 °C(130 °F), used only as a refrigerant, dispersant, or blowing agent.

(k) For Division 2.2 gases, the oxidizing ability shall be determined by tests or by calculation in accordance with ISO 10156:2017(E) (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter).

(l) The following applies to aerosols (see § 171.8 of this subchapter):

(1) An aerosol must be assigned to Division 2.1 if the contents include 85% by mass or more flammable components and the chemical heat of combustion is 30 kJ/g or more;

(2) An aerosol must be assigned to Division 2.2 if the contents contain 1% by mass or less flammable components and the heat of combustion is less than 20 kJ/g.

(3) Aerosols not meeting the provisions of paragraphs (l)(1) or (1)(2) of this section must be classed in accordance with the appropriate tests of the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter). An aerosol which was tested in accordance with the requirements of this subchapter in effect on December 31, 2005, is not required to be retested.

(4) Division 2.3 gases may not be transported in an aerosol container.

(5) When the contents are classified as Division 6.1, PG III or Class 8, PG II or III, the aerosol must be assigned a subsidiary hazard of Division 6.1 or Class 8, as appropriate.

(6) Substances of Division 6.1, PG I or II, and substances of Class 8, PG I are forbidden from transportation in an aerosol container.

(7) Flammable components are Class 3 flammable liquids, Division 4.1 flammable solids, or Division 2.1 flammable gases. The chemical heat of combustion must be determined in accordance with the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter).

(m) Adsorbed gas. A gas which when packaged for transport is adsorbed onto a solid porous material resulting in an internal receptacle pressure of less than 101.3 kPa at 20 °C and less than 300 kPa at 50 °C.

[Amdt. 173–224, 55 FR 52634, Dec. 21, 1990] Editorial Note:For Federal Register citations affecting § 173.115, see the List of CFR Sections Affected, which appears in the Finding Aids section of the printed volume and at www.govinfo.gov.

§ 173.116 - Class 2—Assignment of hazard zone.

(a) The hazard zone of a Class 2, Division 2.3 material is assigned in column 7 of the § 172.101 table. There are no hazard zones for Divisions 2.1 and 2.2. When the § 172.101 table provides more than one hazard zone for a Division 2.3 material, or indicates that the hazard zone be determined on the basis of the grouping criteria for Division 2.3, the hazard zone shall be determined by applying the following criteria:

Hazard zone Inhalation toxicity ALC50 less than or equal to 200 ppm. BLC50 greater than 200 ppm and less than or equal to 1000 ppm. CLC50 greater than 1000 ppm and less than or equal to 3000 ppm. DLC50 greater than 3000 ppm or less than or equal to 5000 ppm.

(b) The criteria specified in paragraph (a) of this section are represented graphically in § 173.133, Figure 1.

[Amdt. 173–224, 55 FR 52634, Dec. 21, 1990, as amended at 56 FR 66268, Dec. 20, 1991; Amdt. 173–138, 59 FR 49133, Sept. 26, 1994; 67 FR 61013, Sept. 27, 2002]

§§ 173.117–173.119 - §[Reserved]

§ 173.120 - Class 3—Definitions.

(a) Flammable liquid. For the purpose of this subchapter, a flammable liquid (Class 3) means a liquid having a flash point of not more than 60 °C (140 °F), or any material in a liquid phase with a flash point at or above 37.8 °C (100 °F) that is intentionally heated and offered for transportation or transported at or above its flash point in a bulk packaging, with the following exceptions:

(1) Any liquid meeting one of the definitions specified in § 173.115.

(2) Any mixture having one or more components with a flash point of 60 °C (140 °F) or higher, that make up at least 99 percent of the total volume of the mixture, if the mixture is not offered for transportation or transported at or above its flash point.

(3) Any liquid with a flash point greater than 35 °C (95 °F) that does not sustain combustion according to ASTM D 4206 (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter) or the procedure in appendix H of this part.

(4) Any liquid with a flash point greater than 35 °C (95 °F) and with a fire point greater than 100 °C (212 °F) according to ISO 2592 (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter).

(5) Any liquid with a flash point greater than 35 °C (95 °F) which is in a water-miscible solution with a water content of more than 90 percent by mass.

(b) Combustible liquid. (1) For the purpose of this subchapter, a combustible liquid means any liquid that does not meet the definition of any other hazard class specified in this subchapter and has a flash point above 60 °C (140 °F) and below 93 °C (200 °F).

(2) A flammable liquid with a flash point at or above 38 °C (100 °F) that does not meet the definition of any other hazard class may be reclassed as a combustible liquid. This provision does not apply to transportation by vessel or aircraft, except where other means of transportation is impracticable. An elevated temperature material that meets the definition of a Class 3 material because it is intentionally heated and offered for transportation or transported at or above its flash point may not be reclassed as a combustible liquid.

(3) A combustible liquid that does not sustain combustion is not subject to the requirements of this subchapter as a combustible liquid. Either the test method specified in ASTM D 4206 or the procedure in appendix H of this part may be used to determine if a material sustains combustion when heated under test conditions and exposed to an external source of flame.

(c) Flash point. (1) Flash point means the minimum temperature at which a liquid gives off vapor within a test vessel in sufficient concentration to form an ignitable mixture with air near the surface of the liquid. It shall be determined as follows:

(i) For a homogeneous, single-phase, liquid having a viscosity less than 45 S.U.S. at 38 °C (100 °F) that does not form a surface film while under test, one of the following test procedures shall be used:

(A) Standard Method of Test for Flash Point by Tag Closed Cup Tester, (ASTM D 56) (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter);

(B) Standard Test Methods for Flash Point of Liquids by Small Scale Closed-Cup Apparatus, (ASTM D 3278) (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter); or

(C) Standard Test Methods for Flash Point by Small Scale Closed Tester, (ASTM D 3828) (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter).

(ii) For a liquid other than one meeting all the criteria of paragraph (c)(1)(i) of this section, one of the following test procedures must be used:

(A) Standard Test Methods for Flash Point by Pensky-Martens Closed Cup Tester, (ASTM D 93) (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter). For cutback asphalt, use Method B of ASTM D 93 or alternative tests authorized in this standard;

(B) Standard Test Methods for Flash Point of Liquids by Small Scale Closed-Cup Apparatus (ASTM D 3278) (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter);

(C) Determination of Flash/No Flash—Closed Cup Equilibrium Method (ISO 1516) (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter);

(D) Determination of Flash point—Closed Cup Equilibrium Method (ISO 1523) (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter);

(E) Determination of Flash Point—Pensky-Martens Closed Cup Method (ISO 2719) (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter);

(F) Determination of Flash Point—Rapid Equilibrium Closed Cup Method (ISO 3679) (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter);

(G) Determination of Flash/No Flash—Rapid Equilibrium Closed Cup Method (ISO 3680) (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter); or

(H) Determination of Flash Point—Abel Closed-Cup Method (ISO 13736) (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter).

(2) For a liquid that is a mixture of compounds that have different volatility and flash points, its flash point shall be determined as specified in paragraph (c)(1) of this section, on the material in the form in which it is to be shipped. If it is determined by this test that the flash point is higher than −7 °C (20 °F) a second test shall be made as follows: a portion of the mixture shall be placed in an open beaker (or similar container) of such dimensions that the height of the liquid can be adjusted so that the ratio of the volume of the liquid to the exposed surface area is 6 to one. The liquid shall be allowed to evaporate under ambient pressure and temperature (20 to 25 °C (68 to 77 °F)) for a period of 4 hours or until 10 percent by volume has evaporated, whichever comes first. A flash point is then run on a portion of the liquid remaining in the evaporation container and the lower of the two flash points shall be the flash point of the material.

(3) For flash point determinations by Setaflash closed tester, the glass syringe specified need not be used as the method of measurement of the test sample if a minimum quantity of 2 mL (0.1 ounce) is assured in the test cup.

(d) If experience or other data indicate that the hazard of a material is greater or less than indicated by the criteria specified in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section, the Associate Administrator may revise the classification or make the material subject or not subject to the requirements of parts 171 through 185 of this subchapter.

(e) Transitional provisions. The Class 3 classification criteria in effect on December 31, 2006, may continue to be used until January 1, 2012.

[Amdt. 173–224, 55 FR 52634 Dec. 21, 1990, as amended by Amdt. 173–227, 56 FR 49989, Oct. 2, 1991; 56 FR 66268, Dec. 20, 1991; 57 FR 45461, Oct. 1, 1992; Amdt. 173–241, 59 FR 67506, 67507, Dec. 29, 1994; Amdt. 173–255, 61 FR 50625, Sept. 26, 1996; Amdt. 173–261, 62 FR 24731, May 6, 1997; 66 FR 45379, 45381, Aug. 28, 2001; 68 FR 75743, Dec. 31, 2003; 71 FR 78631, Dec. 29, 2006; 76 FR 3371, Jan. 19, 2011; 76 FR 43529, July 20, 2011; 76 FR 56316, Sept. 13, 2011]

§ 173.121 - Class 3—Assignment of packing group.

(a)(1) The packing group of a Class 3 material is as assigned in column 5 of the § 172.101 Table. When the § 172.101 Table provides more than one packing group for a hazardous material, the packing group must be determined by applying the following criteria:

Packing group Flash point (closed-cup) Initial boiling point I≤35 °C
(95 °F)
II<23 °C (73 °F)>35 °C
(95 °F)
III≥23 °C, ≤60 °C
(≥73 °F, ≤140 °F)
>35 °C
(95 °F)

(2) The initial boiling point of a Class 3 material may be determined by using one of the following test methods:

(i) Standard Test Method for Distillation of Petroleum Products at Atmospheric Pressure (ASTM D 86) (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter);

(ii) Standard Test Method for Distillation Range of Volatile Organic Liquids (ASTM D 1078) (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter);

(iii) Petroleum Products—Determination of Distillation Characteristics at Atmospheric Pressure (ISO 3405) (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter);

(iv) Petroleum Products—Determination of Boiling Range Distribution—Gas Chromatography Method (ISO 3924) (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter);

(v) Volatile Organic Liquids—Determination of Boiling Range of Organic Solvents Used as Raw Materials (ISO 4626) (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter); or

(vi) Petroleum products containing known flammable gases—Standard Test Method for Determination of Light Hydrocarbons in Stabilized Crude Oils by Gas Chromatography (ASTM D7900) (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter) where the initial boiling point is the temperature at which 0.5 weight percent is eluted when determining the boiling range distribution.

(b) Criteria for inclusion of viscous Class 3 materials in Packing Group III. (1) Viscous Class 3 materials in Packing Group II with a flash point of less than 23 °C (73 °F) may be grouped in Packing Group III provided that—

(i) Less than 3 percent of the clear solvent layer separates in the solvent separation test;

(ii) The mixture or any separated solvent does not contain any substances with a primary or a subsidiary risk of Division 6.1 or Class 8;

(iii) The capacity of the packaging is not more than 450 L (119 gallons); except that for transportation by passenger aircraft, the capacity of the packaging is not more than 30 L (7.9 gallons) and for transportation by cargo aircraft, the capacity of the packaging is not more than 100 L (26.3 gallons); and

(iv) The viscosity 1 and flash point are in accordance with the following table:

1 Viscosity determination: Where the substance concerned is non-Newtonian, or where a flow-cup method of viscosity determination is otherwise unsuitable, a variable shear-rate viscometer shall be used to determine the dynamic viscosity coefficient of the substance, at 23 °C (73.4 °F), at a number of shear rates. The values obtained are plotted against shear rate and then extrapolated to zero shear rate. The dynamic viscosity thus obtained, divided by the density, gives the apparent kinematic viscosity at near-zero shear rate.

Kinematic viscosity
(extrapolated)
ν (at near-zero
shear rate) mm2/s
at 23 °C (73.4 °F)
Flow-time t in
seconds
Jet diameter
in mm
Flash point c.c. 20 < ν ≤ 8020 < t ≤ 604above 17 °C (62.6 °F). 80 < ν ≤ 13560 < t ≤ 1004above 10 °C (50 °F). 135 < ν ≤ 22020 < t ≤ 326above 5 °C (41 °F). 220 < ν ≤ 30032 < t ≤ 446above −1 °C (31.2 °F). 300 < ν ≤ 70044 < t ≤ 1006above −5 °C (23 °F). 700 < ν100 < t6No limit.

(2) The methods by which the tests referred to in paragraph (b)(1) of this section shall be performed are as follows:

(i) Viscosity test. The flow time in seconds is determined at 23 °C (73.4 °F) using the ISO standard cup with a 4 mm (0.16 inch) jet as set forth in ISO 2431 (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter). Where the flow time exceeds 100 seconds, a further test is carried out using the ISO standard cup with a 6 mm (0.24 inch) jet.

(ii) Solvent Separation Test. This test is carried out at 23 °C (73 °F) using a 100.0 mL(3 ounces) measuring cylinder of the stoppered type of approximately 25.0 cm (9.8 inches) total height and of a uniform internal diameter of approximately 30 mm (1.2 inches) over the calibrated section. The sample should be stirred to obtain a uniform consistency, and poured in up to the 100 mL (3 ounces) mark. The stopper should be inserted and the cylinder left standing undisturbed for 24 hours. After 24 hours, the height of the upper separated layer should be measured and the percentage of this layer as compared with the total height of the sample calculated.

[Amdt. 173–224, 55 FR 52634, Dec. 21, 1990] Editorial Note:For Federal Register citations affecting § 173.121, see the List of CFR Sections Affected, which appears in the Finding Aids section of the printed volume and at www.fdsys.gov.

§ 173.124 - Class 4, Divisions 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3—Definitions.

(a) Division 4.1 (Flammable Solid). For the purposes of this subchapter, flammable solid (Division 4.1) means any of the following four types of materials:

(1) Desensitized explosives that—

(i) When dry are Explosives of Class 1 other than those of compatibility group A, which are wetted with sufficient water, alcohol, or plasticizer to suppress explosive properties; and

(ii) Are specifically authorized by name either in the Hazardous Materials Table in § 172.101 of this subchapter or have been assigned a shipping name and hazard class by the Associate Administrator under the provisions of—

(A) A special permit issued under subchapter A of this chapter; or

(B) An approval issued under § 173.56(i).

(2)(i) Self-reactive materials that are thermally unstable and can undergo an exothermic decomposition even without participation of oxygen (air). A material is excluded from this definition if any of the following applies:

(A) The material meets the definition of an explosive as prescribed in subpart C of this part, in which case it must be classed as an explosive;

(B) The material is forbidden from being offered for transportation according to § 172.101 of this subchapter or § 173.21;

(C) The material meets the definition of an oxidizer or organic peroxide as prescribed in this subpart, in which case it must be so classed;

(D) The material meets one of the following conditions:

(1) Its heat of decomposition is less than 300 J/g; or

(2) Its self-accelerating decomposition temperature (SADT) is greater than 75 °C (167 °F) for a 50 kg package; or

(3) It is an oxidizing substance in Division 5.1 containing less than 5.0% combustible organic substances; or

(E) The Associate Administrator has determined that the material does not present a hazard which is associated with a Division 4.1 material.

(ii) Generic types. Division 4.1 self-reactive materials are assigned to a generic system consisting of seven types. A self-reactive substance identified by technical name in the Self-Reactive Materials Table in § 173.224 is assigned to a generic type in accordance with that table. Self-reactive materials not identified in the Self-Reactive Materials Table in § 173.224 are assigned to generic types under the procedures of paragraph (a)(2)(iii) of this section.

(A) Type A. Self-reactive material type A is a self-reactive material which, as packaged for transportation, can detonate or deflagrate rapidly. Transportation of type A self-reactive material is forbidden.

(B) Type B. Self-reactive material type B is a self-reactive material which, as packaged for transportation, neither detonates nor deflagrates rapidly, but is liable to undergo a thermal explosion in a package.

(C) Type C. Self-reactive material type C is a self-reactive material which, as packaged for transportation, neither detonates nor deflagrates rapidly and cannot undergo a thermal explosion.

(D) Type D. Self-reactive material type D is a self-reactive material which—

(1) Detonates partially, does not deflagrate rapidly and shows no violent effect when heated under confinement;

(2) Does not detonate at all, deflagrates slowly and shows no violent effect when heated under confinement; or

(3) Does not detonate or deflagrate at all and shows a medium effect when heated under confinement.

(E) Type E. Self-reactive material type E is a self-reactive material which, in laboratory testing, neither detonates nor deflagrates at all and shows only a low or no effect when heated under confinement.

(F) Type F. Self-reactive material type F is a self-reactive material which, in laboratory testing, neither detonates in the cavitated state nor deflagrates at all and shows only a low or no effect when heated under confinement as well as low or no explosive power.

(G) Type G. Self-reactive material type G is a self-reactive material which, in laboratory testing, does not detonate in the cavitated state, will not deflagrate at all, shows no effect when heated under confinement, nor shows any explosive power. A type G self-reactive material is not subject to the requirements of this subchapter for self-reactive material of Division 4.1 provided that it is thermally stable (self-accelerating decomposition temperature is 50 °C (122 °F) or higher for a 50 kg (110 pounds) package). A self-reactive material meeting all characteristics of type G except thermal stability is classed as a type F self-reactive, temperature control material.

(iii) Procedures for assigning a self-reactive material to a generic type. A self-reactive material must be assigned to a generic type based on—

(A) Its physical state (i.e. liquid or solid), in accordance with the definition of liquid and solid in § 171.8 of this subchapter;

(B) A determination as to its control temperature and emergency temperature, if any, under the provisions of § 173.21(f);

(C) Performance of the self-reactive material under the test procedures specified in the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter) and the provisions of paragraph (a)(2)(iii) of this section; and

(D) Except for a self-reactive material which is identified by technical name in the Self-Reactive Materials Table in § 173.224(b) or a self-reactive material which may be shipped as a sample under the provisions of § 173.224, the self-reactive material is approved in writing by the Associate Administrator. The person requesting approval shall submit to the Associate Administrator the tentative shipping description and generic type and—

(1) All relevant data concerning physical state, temperature controls, and tests results; or

(2) An approval issued for the self-reactive material by the competent authority of a foreign government.

(iv) Tests. The generic type for a self-reactive material must be determined using the testing protocol from Figure 20.1 (a) and (b) (Flow Chart Scheme for Self-Reactive Substances and Organic Peroxides) from the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter).

(3) Readily combustible solids are materials that—

(i) Are solids which may cause a fire through friction, such as matches;

(ii) Show a burning rate faster than 2.2 mm (0.087 inches) per second when tested in accordance with the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter); or

(iii) Any metal powders that can be ignited and react over the whole length of a sample in 10 minutes or less, when tested in accordance with the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria.

(4) Polymerizing materials are materials which, without stabilization, are liable to undergo an exothermic reaction resulting in the formation of larger molecules or resulting in the formation of polymers under conditions normally encountered in transport. Such materials are considered to be polymerizing substances of Division 4.1 when:

(i) Their self-accelerating polymerization temperature (SAPT) is 75 °C (167 °F) or less under the conditions (with or without chemical stabilization) as offered for transport in the packaging, IBC or portable tank in which the material or mixture is to be transported. An appropriate IBC or portable tank for a polymerizing material must be determined using the heating under confinement testing protocol from boxes 7, 8, 9, and 13 of Figure 20.1 (a) and (b) (Flow Chart Scheme for Self-Reactive Substances and Organic Peroxides) from the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter) by successfully passing the UN Test Series E at the “None” or “Low” level, or by an equivalent test method with the approval of the Associate Administrator;

(ii) They exhibit a heat of reaction of more than 300 J/g; and

(iii) Do not meet the definition of hazard classes 1–8 (including combustible liquids).

(iv) The provisions concerning polymerizing substances in paragraph (a)(4) will be effective until January 2, 2023.

(b) Division 4.2 (Spontaneously Combustible Material). For the purposes of this subchapter, spontaneously combustible material (Division 4.2) means—

(1) A pyrophoric material. A pyrophoric material is a liquid or solid that, even in small quantities and without an external ignition source, can ignite within five (5) minutes after coming in contact with air when tested according to UN Manual of Tests and Criteria.

(2) Self-heating material. A self-heating material is a material that through a process where the gradual reaction of that substance with oxygen (in air) generates heat. If the rate of heat production exceeds the rate of heat loss, then the temperature of the substance will rise which, after an induction time, may lead to self-ignition and combustion. A material of this type which exhibits spontaneous ignition or if the temperature of the sample exceeds 200 °C (392 °F) during the 24-hour test period when tested in accordance with UN Manual of Tests and Criteria (IBR; see § 171.7 of this subchapter), is classed as a Division 4.2 material.

(c) Division 4.3 (Dangerous when wet material). For the purposes of this chapter, dangerous when wet material (Division 4.3) means a material that, by contact with water, is liable to become spontaneously flammable or to give off flammable or toxic gas at a rate greater than 1 L per kilogram of the material, per hour, when tested in accordance with UN Manual of Tests and Criteria.

[82 FR 15879, Mar. 30, 2017, as amended at 85 FR 27880, May 11, 2020]

§ 173.125 - Class 4—Assignment of packing group.

(a) The packing group of a Class 4 material is assigned in column (5) of the § 172.101 Table. When the § 172.101 Table provides more than one packing group for a hazardous material, the packing group shall be determined on the basis of test results following test methods given in the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter) and by applying the appropriate criteria given in this section.

(b) Packing group criteria for readily combustible materials of Division 4.1 are as follows:

(1) Powdered, granular or pasty materials must be classified in Division 4.1 when the time of burning of one or more of the test runs, in accordance with the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, is less than 45 seconds or the rate of burning is more than 2.2 mm/s. Powders of metals or metal alloys must be classified in Division 4.1 when they can be ignited and the reaction spreads over the whole length of the sample in 10 minutes or less.

(2) Packing group criteria for readily combustible materials of Division 4.1 are assigned as follows:

(i) For readily combustible solids (other than metal powders), Packing Group II if the burning time is less than 45 seconds and the flame passes the wetted zone. Packing Group II must be assigned to powders of metal or metal alloys if the zone of reaction spreads over the whole length of the sample in 5 minutes or less.

(ii) For readily combustible solids (other than metal powders), Packing Group III must be assigned if the burning rate time is less than 45 seconds and the wetted zone stops the flame propagation for at least 4 minutes. Packing Group III must be assigned to metal powders if the reaction spreads over the whole length of the sample in more than 5 minutes but not more than 10 minutes.

(c) Packing group criteria for Division 4.2 materials is as follows:

(1) Pyrophoric liquids and solids of Division 4.2 are assigned to Packing Group I.

(2) A self-heating material is assigned to—

(i) Packing Group II, if the material gives a positive test result when tested with a 25 mm cube size sample at 140 °C; or

(ii) Packing Group III, if—

(A) A positive test result is obtained in a test using a 100 mm sample cube at 140 °C and a negative test result is obtained in a test using a 25 mm sample cube at 140 °C and the substance is transported in packagings with a volume of more than 3 cubic meters; or

(B) A positive test result is obtained in a test using a 100 mm sample cube at 120 °C and a negative result is obtained in a test using a 25 mm sample cube at 140 °C and the substance is transported in packagings with a volume of more than 450 L; or

(C) A positive result is obtained in a test using a 100 mm sample cube at 100 °C and a negative result is obtained in a test using a 25 mm sample cube at 140 °C and the substance is transported in packagings with a volume of less than 450 L.

(d) A Division 4.3 dangerous when wet material is assigned to—

(1) Packing Group I, if the material reacts vigorously with water at ambient temperatures and demonstrates a tendency for the gas produced to ignite spontaneously, or which reacts readily with water at ambient temperatures such that the rate of evolution of flammable gases is equal or greater than 10 L per kilogram of material over any one minute;

(2) Packing Group II, if the material reacts readily with water at ambient temperatures such that the maximum rate of evolution of flammable gases is equal to or greater than 20 L per kilogram of material per hour, and which does not meet the criteria for Packing Group I; or

(3) Packing Group III, if the material reacts slowly with water at ambient temperatures such that the maximum rate of evolution of flammable gases is greater than 1 L per kilogram of material per hour, and which does not meet the criteria for Packing Group I or II.

[Amdt. 173–224, 55 FR 52634 Dec. 21, 1990, as amended by Amdt. 173–255, 61 FR 50625, Sept. 26, 1996; Amdt. 173–261, 62 FR 24731, May 6, 1997; 62 FR 51560, Oct. 1, 1997; 66 FR 45380, Aug. 28, 2001; 68 FR 75744, Dec. 31, 2003]

§ 173.127 - Class 5, Division 5.1—Definition and assignment of packing groups.

(a) Definition. For the purpose of this subchapter, oxidizer (Division 5.1) means a material that may, generally by yielding oxygen, cause or enhance the combustion of other materials.

(1) A solid material, except for solid ammonium nitrate based fertilizer (see paragraph (a)(3) of this section), is classed as a Division 5.1 material if, when tested in accordance with the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter):

(i) If test O.1 is used (UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, sub-section 34.4.1), the mean burning time is less than or equal to the burning time of a 3:7 potassium bromate/cellulose mixture; or

(ii) If test O.3 is used (UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, sub-section 34.4.3), the mean burning rate is greater than or equal to the burning rate of a 1:2 calcium peroxide/cellulose mixture.

(2) A liquid material is classed as a Division 5.1 material if, when tested in accordance with the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, it spontaneously ignites or its mean time for a pressure rise from 690 kPa to 2070 kPa gauge is less then the time of a 1:1 nitric acid (65 percent)/cellulose mixture.

(3) Solid ammonium nitrate-based fertilizers must be classified in accordance with the procedure as set out in the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, Part III, Section 39.

(b) Assignment of packing groups. (1) The packing group of a Division 5.1 material which is a solid shall be assigned using the following criteria:

(i) Packing Group I, for any material which, in either concentration tested:

(A) If test O.1 is used (UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, sub-section 34.4.1), the mean burning time is less than the mean burning time of a 3:2 potassium bromate/cellulose mixture; or

(B) If test O.3 is used (UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, sub-section 34.4.3), the mean burning rate is greater than the mean burning rate of a 3:1 calcium peroxide/cellulose mixture.

(ii) Packing Group II, for any material which, in either concentration tested:

(A) If test O.1 is used (UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, sub-section 34.4.1), the mean burning time is less than the mean burning time of a 2:3 potassium bromate/cellulose mixture and the criteria for Packing Group I are not met; or

(B) If test O.3 is used (UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, sub-section 34.4.3), the mean burning rate is greater than the mean burning rate of a 1:1 calcium peroxide/cellulose mixture and the criteria for Packing Group I are not met.

(iii) Packing Group III for any material which, in either concentration tested:

(A) If test O.1 is used (UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, sub-section 34.4.1), the mean burning time is less than the mean burning time of a 3:7 potassium bromate/cellulose mixture and the criteria for Packing Groups I and II are not met; or

(B) If test O.3 is used (UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, sub-section 34.4.3), the mean burning rate is greater than the mean burning rate of a 1:2 calcium peroxide/cellulose mixture and the criteria for Packing Groups I and II are not met.

(iv) The materials is not classified as a Division 5.1 material if, in either concentration tested:

(A) If test O.1 is used (UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, sub-section 34.4.1), the sample tested does not ignite and exhibit burn, or exhibits a mean burning time of greater than or equal to the mean burning time of a 3:7 potassium bromate/cellulose mixture.

(B) If test O.3 is used (UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, sub-section 34.4.3), the sample tested does not ignite and exhibit burn, or exhibits a mean burning rate less than or equal to the mean burning rate of a 1:2 calcium peroxide/cellulose mixture.

(2) The packing group of a Division 5.1 material which is a liquid shall be assigned using the following criteria:

(i) Packing Group I for:

(A) Any material which spontaneously ignites when mixed with cellulose in a 1:1 ratio; or

(B) Any material which exhibits a mean pressure rise time less than the pressure rise time of a 1:1 perchloric acid (50 percent)/cellulose mixture.

(ii) Packing Group II, any material which exhibits a mean pressure rise time less than or equal to the pressure rise time of a 1:1 aqueous sodium chlorate solution (40 percent)/cellulose mixture and the criteria for Packing Group I are not met.

(iii) Packing Group III, any material which exhibits a mean pressure rise time less than or equal to the pressure rise time of a 1:1 nitric acid (65 percent)/cellulose mixture and the criteria for Packing Group I and II are not met.

[Amdt. 173–261, 62 FR 24732, May 6, 1997, as amended at 68 FR 75744, Dec. 31, 2003; 80 FR 1156, Jan. 8, 2015; 80 FR 72924, Nov. 23, 2015; 85 FR 27880, May 11, 2020]

§ 173.128 - Class 5, Division 5.2—Definitions and types.

(a) Definitions. For the purposes of this subchapter, organic peroxide (Division 5.2) means any organic compound containing oxygen (O) in the bivalent -O-O- structure and which may be considered a derivative of hydrogen peroxide, where one or more of the hydrogen atoms have been replaced by organic radicals, unless any of the following paragraphs applies:

(1) The material meets the definition of an explosive as prescribed in subpart C of this part, in which case it must be classed as an explosive;

(2) The material is forbidden from being offered for transportation according to § 172.101 of this subchapter or § 173.21;

(3) The Associate Administrator has determined that the material does not present a hazard which is associated with a Division 5.2 material; or

(4) The material meets one of the following conditions:

(i) For materials containing no more than 1.0 percent hydrogen peroxide, the available oxygen, as calculated using the equation in paragraph (a)(4)(ii) of this section, is not more than 1.0 percent, or

(ii) For materials containing more than 1.0 percent but not more than 7.0 percent hydrogen peroxide, the available oxygen, content (Oa) is not more than 0.5 percent, when determined using the equation:

where, for a material containing k species of organic peroxides: ni = number of -O-O- groups per molecule of the i th species ci = concentration (mass percent) of the i th species mi = molecular mass of the i th species

(b) Generic types. Division 5.2 organic peroxides are assigned to a generic system which consists of seven types. An organic peroxide identified by technical name in the Organic Peroxides Table in § 173.225 is assigned to a generic type in accordance with that table. Organic peroxides not identified in the Organic Peroxides table are assigned to generic types under the procedures of paragraph (c) of this section.

(1) Type A. Organic peroxide type A is an organic peroxide which can detonate or deflagrate rapidly as packaged for transport. Transportation of type A organic peroxides is forbidden.

(2) Type B. Organic peroxide type B is an organic peroxide which, as packaged for transport, neither detonates nor deflagrates rapidly, but can undergo a thermal explosion.

(3) Type C. Organic peroxide type C is an organic peroxide which, as packaged for transport, neither detonates nor deflagrates rapidly and cannot undergo a thermal explosion.

(4) Type D. Organic peroxide type D is an organic peroxide which—

(i) Detonates only partially, but does not deflagrate rapidly and is not affected by heat when confined;

(ii) Does not detonate, deflagrates slowly, and shows no violent effect if heated when confined; or

(iii) Does not detonate or deflagrate, and shows a medium effect when heated under confinement.

(5) Type E. Organic peroxide type E is an organic peroxide which neither detonates nor deflagrates and shows low, or no, effect when heated under confinement.

(6) Type F. Organic peroxide type F is an organic peroxide which will not detonate in a cavitated state, does not deflagrate, shows only a low, or no, effect if heated when confined, and has low, or no, explosive power.

(7) Type G. Organic peroxide type G is an organic peroxide which will not detonate in a cavitated state, will not deflagrate at all, shows no effect when heated under confinement, and shows no explosive power. A type G organic peroxide is not subject to the requirements of this subchapter for organic peroxides of Division 5.2 provided that it is thermally stable (self-accelerating decomposition temperature is 50 °C (122 °F) or higher for a 50 kg (110 pounds) package). An organic peroxide meeting all characteristics of type G except thermal stability and requiring temperature control is classed as a type F, temperature control organic peroxide.

(c) Procedure for assigning an organic peroxide to a generic type. An organic peroxide shall be assigned to a generic type based on—

(1) Its physical state (i.e., liquid or solid), in accordance with the definitions for liquid and solid in § 171.8 of this subchapter;

(2) A determination as to its control temperature and emergency temperature, if any, under the provisions of § 173.21(f); and

(3) Performance of the organic peroxide under the test procedures specified in the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter), and the provisions of paragraph (d) of this section.

(d) Approvals. (1) An organic peroxide must be approved, in writing, by the Associate Administrator, before being offered for transportation or transported, including assignment of a generic type and shipping description, except for—

(i) An organic peroxide which is identified by technical name in the Organic Peroxides Table in § 173.225(c);

(ii) A mixture of organic peroxides prepared according to § 173.225(b); or

(iii) An organic peroxide which may be shipped as a sample under the provisions of § 173.225(b).

(2) A person applying for an approval must submit all relevant data concerning physical state, temperature controls, and tests results or an approval issued for the organic peroxide by the competent authority of a foreign government.

(e) Tests. The generic type for an organic peroxide shall be determined using the testing protocol from Figure 20.1(a) (Classification and Flow Chart Scheme for Organic Peroxides) from the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter).

[Amdt. 173–224, 55 FR 52634, Dec. 21, 1990, as amended at 56 FR 66268, Dec. 20, 1991; Amdt. 173–234, 58 FR 51532, Oct. 1, 1993; Amdt. 173–241, 59 FR 67508, Dec. 29, 1994; Amdt. 173–261, 62 FR 24732, May 6, 1997; 65 FR 58629, Sept. 29, 2000; 66 FR 8647, Feb. 1, 2001; 66 FR 45379, Aug. 28, 2001; 68 FR 75744, Dec. 31, 2003; 69 FR 76155, Dec. 20, 2004]

§ 173.129 - [Reserved]

§ 173.132 - Class 6, Division 6.1—Definitions.

(a) For the purpose of this subchapter, poisonous material (Division 6.1) means a material, other than a gas, which is known to be so toxic to humans as to afford a hazard to health during transportation, or which, in the absence of adequate data on human toxicity:

(1) Is presumed to be toxic to humans because it falls within any one of the following categories when tested on laboratory animals (whenever possible, animal test data that has been reported in the chemical literature should be used):

(i) Oral Toxicity. A liquid or solid with an LD50 for acute oral toxicity of not more than 300 mg/kg.

(ii) Dermal Toxicity. A material with an LD50 for acute dermal toxicity of not more than 1000 mg/kg.

(iii) Inhalation Toxicity. (A) A dust or mist with an LC50 for acute toxicity on inhalation of not more than 4 mg/L; or

(B) A material with a saturated vapor concentration in air at 20 °C (68 °F) greater than or equal to one-fifth of the LC50 for acute toxicity on inhalation of vapors and with an LC50 for acute toxicity on inhalation of vapors of not more than 5000 mL/m 3; or

(2) Is an irritating material, with properties similar to tear gas, which causes extreme irritation, especially in confined spaces.

(b) For the purposes of this subchapter—

(1) LD50 (median lethal dose) for acute oral toxicity is the statistically derived single dose of a substance that can be expected to cause death within 14 days in 50% of young adult albino rats when administered by the oral route. The LD50 value is expressed in terms of mass of test substance per mass of test animal (mg/kg).

(2) LD50 for acute dermal toxicity means that dose of the material which, administered by continuous contact for 24 hours with the shaved intact skin (avoiding abrading) of an albino rabbit, causes death within 14 days in half of the animals tested. The number of animals tested must be sufficient to give statistically valid results and be in conformity with good pharmacological practices. The result is expressed in mg/kg body mass.

(3) LC50 for acute toxicity on inhalation means that concentration of vapor, mist, or dust which, administered by continuous inhalation for one hour to both male and female young adult albino rats, causes death within 14 days in half of the animals tested. If the material is administered to the animals as a dust or mist, more than 90 percent of the particles available for inhalation in the test must have a diameter of 10 microns or less if it is reasonably foreseeable that such concentrations could be encountered by a human during transport. The result is expressed in mg/L of air for dusts and mists or in mL/m 3 of air (parts per million) for vapors. See § 173.133(b) for LC50 determination for mixtures and for limit tests.

(i) When provisions of this subchapter require the use of the LC50 for acute toxicity on inhalation of dusts and mists based on a one-hour exposure and such data is not available, the LC50 for acute toxicity on inhalation based on a four-hour exposure may be multiplied by four and the product substituted for the one-hour LC50 for acute toxicity on inhalation.

(ii) When the provisions of this subchapter require the use of the LC50 for acute toxicity on inhalation of vapors based on a one-hour exposure and such data is not available, the LC50 for acute toxicity on inhalation based on a four-hour exposure may be multiplied by two and the product substituted for the one-hour LC50 for acute toxicity on inhalation.

(iii) A solid substance should be tested if at least 10 percent of its total mass is likely to be dust in a respirable range, e.g. the aerodynamic diameter of that particle-fraction is 10 microns or less. A liquid substance should be tested if a mist is likely to be generated in a leakage of the transport containment. In carrying out the test both for solid and liquid substances, more than 90% (by mass) of a specimen prepared for inhalation toxicity testing must be in the respirable range as defined in this paragraph (b)(3)(iii).

(c) For purposes of classifying and assigning packing groups to mixtures possessing oral or dermal toxicity hazards according to the criteria in § 173.133(a)(1), it is necessary to determine the acute LD50 of the mixture. If a mixture contains more than one active constituent, one of the following methods may be used to determine the oral or dermal LD50 of the mixture:

(1) Obtain reliable acute oral and dermal toxicity data on the actual mixture to be transported;

(2) If reliable, accurate data is not available, classify the formulation according to the most hazardous constituent of the mixture as if that constituent were present in the same concentration as the total concentration of all active constituents; or

(3) If reliable, accurate data is not available, apply the formula:

where: C = the % concentration of constituent A, B ... Z in the mixture; T = the oral LD50 values of constituent A, B ... Z; TM = the oral LD50 value of the mixture. Note to formula in paragraph (c)(3):

This formula also may be used for dermal toxicities provided that this information is available on the same species for all constituents. The use of this formula does not take into account any potentiation or protective phenomena.

(d) The foregoing categories shall not apply if the Associate Administrator has determined that the physical characteristics of the material or its probable hazards to humans as shown by documented experience indicate that the material will not cause serious sickness or death.

[Amdt. 173–224, 55 FR 52634, Dec. 21, 1990, as amended at 56 FR 66268, Dec. 20, 1991; Amdt. 173–234, 58 FR 51532, Oct. 1, 1993; Amdt. 173–261, 62 FR 24732, May 6, 1997; 62 FR 45702, Aug. 28, 1997; 65 FR 58629, Sept. 29, 2000; 66 FR 45379, 45382, Aug. 28, 2001; 69 FR 76155, Dec. 20, 2004; 72 FR 55692, Oct. 1, 2007; 76 FR 43529, July 20, 2011]

§ 173.133 - Assignment of packing group and hazard zones for Division 6.1 materials.

(a) The packing group of Division 6.1 materials shall be as assigned in column 5 of the § 172.101 table. When the § 172.101 table provides more than one packing group or hazard zone for a hazardous material, the packing group and hazard zone shall be determined by applying the following criteria:

(1) The packing group assignment for routes of administration other than inhalation of vapors shall be in accordance with the following table:

Packing group Oral toxicity LD50 (mg/kg) Dermal toxicity LD50
(mg/kg)
Inhalation toxicity by dusts and mists LC50 (mg/L) I≤5.0≤50≤0.2 II>5.0 and ≤50>50 and ≤200>0.2 and ≤2.0 III>50 and ≤300>200 and ≤1000>2.0 and ≤4.0

(2)(i) The packing group and hazard zone assignments for liquids (see § 173.115(c) of this subpart for gases) based on inhalation of vapors shall be in accordance with the following table:

Packing Group Vapor concentration and toxicity I (Hazard Zone A)V ≥500 LC50 and LC50 ≤200 mL/M 3. I (Hazard Zone B)V ≥10 LC50; LC50 ≤1000 mL/m 3; and the criteria for Packing Group I, Hazard Zone A are not met. IIV ≥LC50; LC50 ≤3000 mL/m 3; and the criteria for Packing Group I, are not met. IIIV ≥.2 LC50; LC50 ≤5000 mL/m 3; and the criteria for Packing Groups I and II, are not met.

Note 1: V is the saturated vapor concentration in air of the material in mL/m 3 at 20 °C and standard atmospheric pressure.

Note 2: A liquid in Division 6.1 meeting criteria for Packing Group I, Hazard Zones A or B stated in paragraph (a)(2) of this section is a material poisonous by inhalation subject to the additional hazard communication requirements in §§ 172.203(m), 172.313 and table 1 of § 172.504(e) of this subchapter.

(ii) These criteria are represented graphically in Figure 1:

(3) When the packing group determined by applying these criteria is different for two or more (oral, dermal or inhalation) routes of administration, the packing group assigned to the material shall be that indicated for the highest degree of toxicity for any of the routes of administration.

(4) Notwithstanding the provisions of this paragraph, the packing group and hazard zone of a tear gas substance is as assigned in column 5 of the § 172.101 table.

(b) The packing group and hazard zone for Division 6.1 mixtures that are poisonous (toxic) by inhalation may be determined by one of the following methods:

(1) Where LC50 data is available on each of the poisonous (toxic) substances comprising the mixture—

(i) The LC50 of the mixture is estimated using the formula:

where fi = mole fraction of the i th component substance of the liquid. LC50i = mean lethal concentration of the i th component substance in mL/m 3

(ii) The volatility of each component substance is estimated using the formula:

where: Pi = partial pressure of the ith component substance in kPa at 20 °C and one atmospheric pressure. Pi may be calculated according to Raoult's Law using appropriate activity coefficients. Where activity coefficients are not available, the coefficient may be assumed to be 1.0.

(iii) The ratio of the volatility to the LC50 is calculated using the formula:

(iv) Using the calculated values LC50 (mixture) and R, the packing group for the mixture is determined as follows:

Packaging group
(hazard zone)
Ratio of volatility and LC50I (Hazard Zone A)R ≥500 and LC50 (mixture) ≤200 mL/m 3. I (Hazard Zone B)R ≥10 and LC50 (mixture) ≤1000 mL/m 3; and the criteria for Packing Group I, Hazard Zone A are not met. IIR ≥1 and LC50 (mixture) ≤3000 mL/m 3; and the criteria for Packing Group I, Hazard Zones A and B are not met. IIIR ≥ 1/5 and LC50 (mixture) ≤5000 mL/m 3; and the criteria for Packing Group I, Hazard Zones A and B and Packing Group II are not met.

(2) In the absence of LC50 data on the poisonous (toxic) constituent substances, the mixture may be assigned a packing group and hazard zone based on the following simplified threshold toxicity tests. When these threshold tests are used, the most restrictive packing group and hazard zone must be determined and used for the transportation of the mixture.

(i) A mixture is assigned to Packing Group I, Hazard Zone A only if both the following criteria are met:

(A) A sample of the liquid mixture is vaporized and diluted with air to create a test atmosphere of 200 mL/m 3 vaporized mixture in air. Ten albino rats (five male and five female) are exposed to the test atmosphere as determined by an analytical method appropriate for the material being classified for one hour and observed for fourteen days. If five or more of the animals die within the fourteen-day observation period, the mixture is presumed to have an LC50 equal to or less than 200 mL/m 3.

(B) A sample of the vapor in equilibrium with the liquid mixture is diluted with 499 equal volumes of air to form a test atmosphere. Ten albino rats (five male and five female) are exposed to the test atmosphere for one hour and observed for fourteen days. If five or more of the animals die within the fourteen-day observation period, the mixture is presumed to have a volatility equal to or greater than 500 times the mixture LC50.

(ii) A mixture is assigned to Packing Group I, Hazard Zone B only if both the following criteria are met, and the mixture does not meet the criteria for Packing Group I, Hazard Zone A:

(A) A sample of the liquid mixture is vaporized and diluted with air to create a test atmosphere of 1000 mL/m 3 vaporized mixture in air. Ten albino rats (five male and five female) are exposed to the test atmosphere for one hour and observed for fourteen days. If five or more of the animals die within the fourteen-day observation period, the mixture is presumed to have an LC50 equal to or less than 1000 mL/m 3.

(B) A sample of the vapor in equilibrium with the liquid mixture is diluted with 9 equal volumes of air to form a test atmosphere. Ten albino rats (five male and five female) are exposed to the test atmosphere for one hour and observed for fourteen days. If five or more of the animals die within the fourteen-day observation period, the mixture is presumed to have a volatility equal to or greater than 10 times the mixture LC50.

(iii) A mixture is assigned to Packing Group II only if both the following criteria are met, and the mixture does not meet the criteria for Packing Group I (Hazard Zones A or B):

(A) A sample of the liquid mixture is vaporized and diluted with air to create a test atmosphere of 3000 mL/m 3 vaporized mixture in air. Ten albino rats (five male and five female) are exposed to the test atmosphere for one hour and observed for fourteen days. If five or more of the animals die within the fourteen-day observation period, the mixture is presumed to have an LC50 equal to or less than 3000 mL/m 3.

(B) A sample of the vapor in equilibrium with the liquid mixture is used to form a test atmosphere. Ten albino rats (five male and five female) are exposed to the test atmosphere for one hour and observed for fourteen days. If five or more of the animals die within the fourteen-day observation period, the mixture is presumed to have a volatility equal to or greater than the mixture LC50.

(iv) A mixture is assigned to Packing Group III only if both the following criteria are met, and the mixture does not meet the criteria for Packing Groups I (Hazard Zones A or B) or Packing Group II (Hazard Zone C):

(A) A sample of the liquid mixture is vaporized and diluted with air to create a test atmosphere of 5000 mL/m 3 vaporized mixture in air. Ten albino rats (five male and five female) are exposed to the test atmosphere for one hour and observed for fourteen days. If five or more of the animals die within the fourteen-day observation period, the mixture is presumed to have an LC50 equal to or less than 5000 mL/m 3.

(B) The vapor pressure of the liquid mixture is measured and if the vapor concentration is equal to or greater than 1000 mL/m 3, the mixture is presumed to have a volatility equal to or greater than 1/5 the mixture LC50.

(c) Transitional provisions. The criteria for packing group assignments in effect on December 31, 2006, may continue to be used until January 1, 2012.

[Amdt. 173–224, 55 span 52634, Dec. 21, 1990, as amended at 56 span 66268, Dec. 20, 1991; 57 span 45461, Oct. 1, 1992; Amdt. 173–234, 58 span 51532, Oct. 1, 1993; Amdt. 173–138, 59 span 49133, Sept. 26, 1994; Amdt. 173–255, 61 span 50626, Sept. 26, 1996; 66 span 45183, 45380, Aug. 28, 2001; 66 span 49556, Sept. 28, 2001; 69 span 54046, Sept. 7, 2004; 71 span 54395, Sept. 14, 2006; 71 span 78631, Dec. 29, 2006; 74 span 53188, Oct. 16, 2009; 76 span 43529, July 20, 2011]

§ 173.134 - Class 6, Division 6.2—Definitions and exceptions.

(a) Definitions and classification criteria. For the purposes of this subchapter, the following definitions and classification criteria apply to Division 6.2 materials.

(1) Division 6.2 (Infectious substance) means a material known or reasonably expected to contain a pathogen. A pathogen is a microorganism (including bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi) or other agent, such as a proteinaceous infectious particle (prion) that can cause disease in humans or animals. An infectious substance must be assigned the identification number UN2814, UN2900, UN3291, UN3373, or UN3549 as appropriate, and must be assigned to one of the following categories:

(i) Category A: An infectious substance in a form capable of causing permanent disability or life-threatening or fatal disease in otherwise healthy humans or animals when exposure to it occurs. An exposure occurs when an infectious substance is released outside of its protective packaging, resulting in physical contact with humans or animals. A Category A infectious substance must be assigned to identification number UN2814, UN2900, or UN3549, as appropriate. Assignment to UN2814, UN2900, or UN3549 must be based on the known medical history or symptoms of the source patient or animal, endemic local conditions, or professional judgment concerning the individual circumstances of the source human or animal.

(ii) Category B: An infectious substance that is not in a form generally capable of causing permanent disability or life-threatening or fatal disease in otherwise healthy humans or animals when exposure to it occurs. This includes Category B infectious substances transported for diagnostic or investigational purposes. A Category B infectious substance must be described as “Biological substance, Category B” and assigned identification number UN3373. This does not include regulated medical waste, which must be assigned identification number UN3291.

(2) Biological product means a virus, therapeutic serum, toxin, antitoxin, vaccine, blood, blood component or derivative, allergenic product, or analogous product, or arsphenamine or derivative of arsphenamine (or any other trivalent arsenic compound) applicable to the prevention, treatment, or cure of a disease or condition of human beings or animals. A biological product includes a material subject to regulation under 42 U.S.C. 262 or 21 U.S.C. 151–159. Unless otherwise excepted, a biological product known or reasonably expected to contain a pathogen that meets the definition of a Category A or B infectious substance must be assigned the identification number UN 2814, UN 2900, or UN 3373, as appropriate.

(3) Culture means an infectious substance containing a pathogen that is intentionally propagated. Culture does not include a human or animal patient specimen as defined in paragraph (a)(4) of this section.

(4) Patient specimens means those collected directly from humans or animals and transported for research, diagnosis, investigational activities, or disease treatment or prevention. Patient specimens includes excreta, secreta, blood and its components, tissue and tissue swabs, body parts, and specimens in transport media (e.g., transwabs, culture media, and blood culture bottles).

(5) Regulated medical waste or clinical waste or (bio) medical waste means a waste or reusable material derived from the medical treatment of an animal or human, which includes diagnosis and immunization, or from biomedical research, which includes the production and testing of biological products. Regulated medical waste or clinical waste or (bio) medical waste containing a Category A infectious substance must be classed as an infectious substance, and assigned to UN2814, UN2900, or UN3549, as appropriate.

(6) Sharps means any object contaminated with a pathogen or that may become contaminated with a pathogen through handling or during transportation and also capable of cutting or penetrating skin or a packaging material. Sharps includes needles, syringes, scalpels, broken glass, culture slides, culture dishes, broken capillary tubes, broken rigid plastic, and exposed ends of dental wires.

(7) Toxin means a Division 6.1 material from a plant, animal, or bacterial source. A toxin containing an infectious substance or a toxin contained in an infectious substance must be classed as Division 6.2, described as an infectious substance, and assigned to UN 2814 or UN 2900, as appropriate.

(8) Used health care product means a medical, diagnostic, or research device or piece of equipment, or a personal care product used by consumers, medical professionals, or pharmaceutical providers that does not meet the definition of a patient specimen, biological product, or regulated medical waste, is contaminated with potentially infectious body fluids or materials, and is not decontaminated or disinfected to remove or mitigate the infectious hazard prior to transportation.

(b) Exceptions. The following are not subject to the requirements of this subchapter as Division 6.2 materials:

(1) A material that does not contain an infectious substance or that is unlikely to cause disease in humans or animals.

(2) Non-infectious biological materials from humans, animals, or plants. Examples include non-infectious cells, tissue cultures, blood or plasma from individuals not suspected of having an infectious disease, DNA, RNA or other non-infectious genetic elements.

(3) A material containing micro-organisms that are non-pathogenic to humans or animals.

(4) A material containing pathogens that have been neutralized or inactivated such that they no longer pose a health risk.

(5) A material with a low probability of containing an infectious substance, or where the concentration of the infectious substance is at a level naturally occurring in the environment so it cannot cause disease when exposure to it occurs. Examples of these materials include: Foodstuffs; environmental samples, such as water or a sample of dust or mold; and substances that have been treated so that the pathogens have been neutralized or deactivated, such as a material treated by steam sterilization, chemical disinfection, or other appropriate method, so it no longer meets the definition of an infectious substance.

(6) A biological product, including an experimental or investigational product or component of a product, subject to Federal approval, permit, review, or licensing requirements, such as those required by the Food and Drug Administration of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services or the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

(7) Blood collected for the purpose of blood transfusion or the preparation of blood products; blood products; plasma; plasma derivatives; blood components; tissues or organs intended for use in transplant operations; and human cell, tissues, and cellular and tissue-based products regulated under authority of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 264–272) and/or the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.).

(8) Blood, blood plasma, and blood components collected for the purpose of blood transfusion or the preparation of blood products and sent for testing as part of the collection process, except where the person collecting the blood has reason to believe it contains an infectious substance, in which case the test sample must be shipped as a Category A or Category B infectious substance in accordance with § 173.196 or § 173.199, as appropriate.

(9) Dried blood spots or specimens for fecal occult blood detection placed on absorbent filter paper or other material.

(10) A Division 6.2 material, other than a Category A infectious substance, contained in a patient sample being transported for research, diagnosis, investigational activities, or disease treatment or prevention, or a biological product, when such materials are transported by a private or contract carrier in a motor vehicle used exclusively to transport such materials. Medical or clinical equipment and laboratory products may be transported aboard the same vehicle provided they are properly packaged and secured against exposure or contamination. If the human or animal sample or biological product meets the definition of regulated medical waste in paragraph (a)(5) of this section, it must be offered for transportation and transported in conformance with the appropriate requirements for regulated medical waste.

(11) A human or animal sample (including, but not limited to, secreta, excreta, blood and its components, tissue and tissue fluids, and body parts) being transported for routine testing not related to the diagnosis of an infectious disease, such as for drug/alcohol testing, cholesterol testing, blood glucose level testing, prostate specific antibody testing, testing to monitor kidney or liver function, or pregnancy testing, or for tests for diagnosis of non-infectious diseases, such as cancer biopsies, and for which there is a low probability the sample is infectious.

(12) Laundry and medical equipment and used health care products, as follows:

(i) Laundry or medical equipment conforming to the regulations of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration of the Department of Labor in 29 CFR 1910.1030. This exception includes medical equipment intended for use, cleaning, or refurbishment, such as reusable surgical equipment, or equipment used for testing where the components within which the equipment is contained essentially function as packaging. This exception does not apply to medical equipment being transported for disposal.

(ii) Used health care products not conforming to the requirements in 29 CFR 1910.1030 and being returned to the manufacturer or the manufacturer's designee are excepted from the requirements of this subchapter when offered for transportation or transported in accordance with this paragraph (b)(12). For purposes of this paragraph, a health care product is used when it has been removed from its original packaging. Used health care products contaminated with or suspected of contamination with a Category A infectious substance may not be transported under the provisions of this paragraph.

(A) Each used health care product must be drained of free liquid to the extent practicable and placed in a watertight primary container designed and constructed to assure that it remains intact under conditions normally incident to transportation. For a used health care product capable of cutting or penetrating skin or packaging material, the primary container must be capable of retaining the product without puncture of the packaging under normal conditions of transport. Each primary container must be marked with a BIOHAZARD marking conforming to 29 CFR 1910.1030(g)(1)(i).

(B) Each primary container must be placed inside a watertight secondary container designed and constructed to assure that it remains intact under conditions normally incident to transportation. The secondary container must be marked with a BIOHAZARD marking conforming to 29 CFR 1910.1030(g)(1)(i).

(C) The secondary container must be placed inside an outer packaging with sufficient cushioning material to prevent shifting between the secondary container and the outer packaging. An itemized list of the contents of the primary container and information concerning possible contamination with a Division 6.2 material, including its possible location on the product, must be placed between the secondary container and the outside packaging.

(D) Each person who offers or transports a used health care product under the provisions of this paragraph must know about the requirements of this paragraph.

(13) Any waste or recyclable material, other than regulated medical waste, including—

(i) Household waste as defined in § 171.8, when transported in accordance with applicable state, local, or tribal requirements.

(ii) Sanitary waste or sewage;

(iii) Sewage sludge or compost;

(iv) Animal waste generated in animal husbandry or food production; or

(v) Medical waste generated from households and transported in accordance with applicable state, local, or tribal requirements.

(14) Corpses, remains, and anatomical parts intended for interment, cremation, or medical research at a college, hospital, or laboratory.

(15) Forensic material transported on behalf of a U.S. Government, state, local or Indian tribal government agency, except that—

(i) Forensic material known or suspected to contain a Category B infectious substance must be shipped in a packaging conforming to the provisions of § 173.24.

(ii) Forensic material known or suspected to contain a Category A infectious substance or an infectious substance listed as a select agent in 42 CFR part 73 must be transported in packaging capable of meeting the test standards in § 178.609 of this subchapter. The secondary packaging must be marked with a BIOHAZARD symbol conforming to specifications in 29 CFR 1910.1030(g)(1)(i). An itemized list of contents must be enclosed between the secondary packaging and the outer packaging.

(16) A raw agricultural commodity as defined in the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetics Act (21 U.S.C. 301 et seq.).

(c) Exceptions for regulated medical waste. The following provisions apply to the transportation of regulated medical waste:

(1) A regulated medical waste transported by a private or contract carrier is excepted from—

(i) The requirement for an “INFECTIOUS SUBSTANCE” label if the outer packaging is marked with a “BIOHAZARD” marking in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.1030; and

(ii) The specific packaging requirements of § 173.197, if packaged in a rigid non-bulk packaging conforming to the general packaging requirements of §§ 173.24 and 173.24a and packaging requirements specified in 29 CFR 1910.1030, provided the material does not include a waste concentrated stock culture of an infectious substance. Sharps containers must be securely closed to prevent leaks or punctures.

(2) The following materials may be offered for transportation and transported as a regulated medical waste when packaged in a rigid non-bulk packaging conforming to the general packaging requirements of §§ 173.24 and 173.24a and packaging requirements specified in 29 CFR 1910.1030 and transported by a private or contract carrier in a vehicle used exclusively to transport regulated medical waste:

(i) Waste stock or culture of a Category B infectious substance;

(ii) Plant and animal waste regulated by the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS);

(iii) Waste pharmaceutical materials;

(iv) Laboratory and recyclable wastes;

(v) Infectious substances that have been treated to eliminate or neutralize pathogens;

(vi) Forensic materials being transported for final destruction;

(vii) Rejected or recalled health care products;

(viii) Documents intended for destruction in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA) requirements;

(ix) Medical or clinical equipment and laboratory products provided they are properly packaged and secured against exposure or contamination; or

(x) Sharps in sharp containers provided the containers are securely closed to prevent leaks or punctures; do not exceed 18 gallons capacity; registered under the Medical Device Regulations of FDA; made of puncture resistant plastic that meets ASTM Standard F2132–01, Standard Specification for Puncture Resistance of Materials Used in Containers for Discarded Medical Needles and Other Sharps; and are securely fitted into wheeled racks that hold them in an upright position. The wheeled racks must contain full rows of sharps containers secured in place by a moveable bar; and must be securely held in place on the motor vehicle by straps or load bars during transportation. No shelf in any wheeled rack may exceed the manufacturer's recommended load capacity.

(d) If an item listed in paragraph (b) or (c) of this section meets the definition of another hazard class or if it is a hazardous substance, hazardous waste, or marine pollutant, it must be offered for transportation and transported in accordance with applicable requirements of this subchapter.

(e) Transitional provisions. The authorization for continued use of the criteria for packing group assignments in effect on December 31, 2006 ended on January 1, 2012.

[67 FR 53138, Aug. 14, 2002, as amended at 68 FR 57632, Oct. 6, 2003; 70 FR 56098, Sept. 23, 2005; 71 FR 32258, June 2, 2006; 71 FR 78631, Dec. 29, 2006; 72 FR 55692, Oct. 1, 2007; 73 FR 4718, Jan. 28, 2008; 74 FR 2257, Jan. 14, 2009; 76 FR 43530, July 20, 2011; 77 FR 60942, Oct. 5, 2012; 78 FR 15327, Mar. 11, 2013; 85 FR 27880, May 11, 2020; 85 FR 83397, Dec. 21, 2020; 87 FR 44992, July 26, 2022]

§ 173.136 - Class 8—Definitions.

(a) For the purpose of this subchapter, “corrosive material” (Class 8) means a liquid or solid that causes irreversible damage to human skin at the site of contact within a specified period of time. A liquid, or a solid which may become liquid during transportation, that has a severe corrosion rate on steel or aluminum based on the criteria in § 173.137(c)(2) is also a corrosive material. Whenever practical, in vitro test methods authorized in § 173.137 of this part or historical data authorized in paragraph (c) of this section should be used to determine whether a material is corrosive.

(b) If human experience or other data indicate that the hazard of a material is greater or less than indicated by the results of the tests specified in paragraph (a) of this section, PHMSA may revise its classification or make the determination that the material is not subject to the requirements of this subchapter.

(c) Skin corrosion test data produced no later than September 30, 1995, using the procedures of part 173, appendix A, in effect on September 30, 1995 (see 49 CFR part 173, appendix A, revised as of October 1, 1994) for appropriate exposure times may be used for classification and assignment of packing group for Class 8 materials corrosive to skin.

[Amdt. 173–224, 55 FR 52634, Dec. 21, 1990, as amended at 56 FR 66270, Dec. 20, 1991; Amdt. 173–234, 58 FR 51532, Oct. 1, 1993; Amdt. 173–241, 59 FR 67508, Dec. 29, 1994; Amdt. 173–261, 62 FR 24732, May 6, 1997; 69 FR 76155, Dec. 20, 2004; 71 FR 78631, Dec. 29, 2006; 76 FR 3372, Jan. 19, 2011; 85 FR 27880, May 11, 2020]

§ 173.137 - Class 8—Assignment of packing group.

The packing group of a Class 8 material is indicated in Column 5 of the § 172.101 Table. When the § 172.101 Table provides more than one packing group for a Class 8 material, the packing group must be determined using data obtained from tests conducted in accordance with the OECD Guidelines for the Testing of Chemicals, Test No. 435, “In Vitro Membrane Barrier Test Method for Skin Corrosion” (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter) or Test No. 404, “Acute Dermal Irritation/Corrosion” (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter). A material that is determined not to be corrosive in accordance with OECD Guideline for the Testing of Chemicals, Test No. 430, “In Vitro Skin Corrosion: Transcutaneous Electrical Resistance Test (TER)” (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter) or Test No. 431, “In Vitro Skin Corrosion: Reconstructed Human Epidermis (RHE) Test Method” (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter) may be considered not to be corrosive to human skin for the purposes of this subchapter without further testing. However, a material determined to be corrosive in accordance with Test No. 430 must be further tested using Test No. 435 or Test No. 404. If the in vitro test results indicate that the substance or mixture is corrosive, but the test method does not clearly distinguish between assignment of packing groups II and III, the material may be considered to be in packing group II without further testing. The packing group assignment using data obtained from tests conducted in accordance with OECD Guideline Test No. 404 or Test No. 435 must be as follows:

(a) Packing Group I. Materials that cause irreversible damage to intact skin tissue within an observation period of up to 60 minutes, starting after the exposure time of three minutes or less.

(b) Packing Group II. Materials, other than those meeting Packing Group I criteria, that cause irreversible damage to intact skin tissue within an observation period of up to 14 days, starting after the exposure time of more than three minutes but not more than 60 minutes.

(c) Packing Group III. Materials, other than those meeting Packing Group I or II criteria—

(1) That cause irreversible damage to intact skin tissue within an observation period of up to 14 days, starting after the exposure time of more than 60 minutes but not more than 4 hours; or

(2) That do not cause irreversible damage to intact skin tissue but exhibit a corrosion on either steel or aluminum surfaces exceeding 6.25 mm (0.25 inch) a year at a test temperature of 55 °C (130 °F) when tested on both materials. The corrosion may be determined in accordance with the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria (IBR, see § 171.7 of this subchapter) or other equivalent test methods.

(d) Alternative packing group assignment methods for mixtures. For mixtures it is necessary to obtain or derive information that allows the criteria to be applied to the mixture for the purpose of classification and assignment of packing groups. The approach to classification and assignment of packing groups is tiered, and is dependent upon the amount of information available for the mixture itself, for similar mixtures and/or for its ingredients. The flow chart in Figure 1 to paragraph (d) outlines the process to be followed:

(1) Bridging principles. Where a mixture has not been tested to determine its skin corrosion potential, but there is sufficient data on both the individual ingredients and similar tested mixtures to adequately classify and assign a packing group for the mixture, this data will be used in accordance with the following bridging principles. This ensures that the classification process uses the available data to the greatest extent possible in characterizing the hazards of the mixture.

(i) Dilution. If a tested mixture is diluted with a diluent, which does not meet the criteria for Class 8 and does not affect the packing group of other ingredients, then the new diluted mixture may be assigned to the same packing group as the original tested mixture. In certain cases, diluting a mixture or substance may lead to an increase in the corrosive properties. If this is the case, this bridging principle cannot be used.

(ii) Batching. The skin corrosion potential of a tested production batch of a mixture can be assumed to be substantially equivalent to that of another untested production batch of the same commercial product when produced by or under the control of the same manufacturer, unless there is reason to believe there is significant variation such that the skin corrosion potential of the untested batch has changed. If the latter occurs, a new classification is necessary.

(iii) Concentration of mixtures of packing group I. If a tested mixture meeting the criteria for inclusion in Packing Group I is concentrated, the more concentrated untested mixture may be assigned to Packing Group I without additional testing.

(iv) Interpolation within one packing group. For three mixtures (A, B and C) with identical ingredients, where mixtures A and B have been tested and are in the same skin corrosion packing group, and where untested mixture C has the same Class 8 ingredients as mixtures A and B but has concentrations of Class 8 ingredients intermediate to the concentrations in mixtures A and B, then mixture C is assumed to be in the same skin corrosion packing group as A and B.

(v) Substantially similar mixtures. Given the following:

(A) Two mixtures: (A+B) and (C+B);

(B) The concentration of ingredient B is the same in both mixtures;

(C) The concentration of ingredient A in mixture (A+B) equals the concentration of ingredient C in mixture (C+B);

(D) Data on skin corrosion for ingredients A and C are available and substantially equivalent, i.e., they are the same skin corrosion packing group and do not affect the skin corrosion potential of B.

(E) If the above mixture (A+B) or (C+B) is already classified based on test data, then the other mixture may be assigned to the same packing group.

(2) Calculation method based on the classification of the substances. Where a mixture has not been tested to determine its skin corrosion potential, nor is sufficient data available on similar mixtures, the corrosive properties of the substances in the mixture shall be considered to classify and assign a packing group. Applying the calculation method is only allowed if there are no synergistic effects that make the mixture more corrosive than the sum of its substances. This restriction applies only if Packing Group II or III would be assigned to the mixture.

(i) All Class 8 ingredients present at a concentration of ≥1% shall be taken into account, or <1% if these ingredients are still relevant for classifying the mixture to be corrosive to skin.

(ii) To determine whether a mixture containing corrosive substances must be considered a corrosive mixture and to assign a packing group, the calculation method in the flow chart in appendix I must be applied. For this calculation method, generic concentration limits apply where 1% is used in the first step for the assessment of the packing group I substances, and where 5% is used for the other steps respectively.

(iii) When a specific concentration limit (SCL) is assigned to a substance following its entry in the Hazardous Materials Table or in a special provision, this limit shall be used instead of the generic concentration limits (GCL).

(iv) The following formula must be used for each step of the calculation process. The criterion for a packing group is fulfilled when the result of the calculation is ≥ 1. The generic concentration limits to be used for the evaluation in each step of the calculation method are those found in appendix I of this part. Where applicable, the generic concentration limit shall be substituted by the specific concentration limit assigned to the substance(s) (SCLi), and the adapted formula is a weighted average of the different concentration limits assigned to the different substances in the mixture:

PG xi = concentration of substance 1, 2 . . .i in the mixture, assigned to packing group x (I, II or III) GCL = generic concentration limit SCLi = specific concentration limit assigned to substance i Note to § 173.137:

When an initial test on either a steel or aluminum surface indicates the material being tested is corrosive, the follow up test on the other surface is not required.

[85 FR 27880, May 11, 2020, as amended at 87 FR 44993, July 26, 2022]

§ 173.140 - Class 9—Definitions.

For the purposes of this subchapter, miscellaneous hazardous material (Class 9) means a material which presents a hazard during transportation but which does not meet the definition of any other hazard class. This class includes:

(a) Any material which has an anesthetic, noxious or other similar property which could cause extreme annoyance or discomfort to a flight crew member so as to prevent the correct performance of assigned duties; or

(b) Any material that meets the definition in § 171.8 of this subchapter for an elevated temperature material, a hazardous substance, a hazardous waste, or a marine pollutant.

[Amdt. 173–224, 57 FR 45463, Oct. 1, 1992, as amended by Amdt. 173–231, 57 FR 52939, Nov. 5, 1992; Amdt. 173–233, 58 FR 33305, June 16, 1993]

§ 173.141 - Class 9—Assignment of packing group.

The packing group of a Class 9 material is as indicated in column 5 of the § 172.101 table.

§ 173.144–173.145 - [Reserved]

§ 173.150 - Exceptions for Class 3 (flammable and combustible liquids).

(a) General. Exceptions for hazardous materials shipments in the following paragraphs are permitted only if this section is referenced for the specific hazardous material in the § 172.101 Table of this subchapter.

(b) Limited quantities. Limited quantities of flammable liquids (Class 3) and combustible liquids are excepted from labeling requirements, unless the material is offered for transportation or transported by aircraft, and are excepted from the specification packaging requirements of this subchapter when packaged in combination packagings according to this paragraph. For transportation by aircraft, the package must also conform to applicable requirements of § 173.27 of this part (e.g., authorized materials, inner packaging quantity limits and closure securement) and only hazardous material authorized aboard passenger-carrying aircraft may be transported as a limited quantity. A limited quantity package that conforms to the provisions of this section is not subject to the shipping paper requirements of subpart C of part 172 of this subchapter, unless the material meets the definition of a hazardous substance, hazardous waste, marine pollutant, or is offered for transportation and transported by aircraft or vessel, and is eligible for the exceptions provided in § 173.156 of this part. In addition, shipments of limited quantities are not subject to subpart F (Placarding) of part 172 of this subchapter. Each package must conform to the packaging requirements of subpart B of this part and may not exceed 30 kg (66 pounds) gross weight. Except for transportation by aircraft, the following combination packagings are authorized:

(1) For flammable liquids in Packing Group I, inner packagings not over 0.5 L (0.1 gallon) net capacity each, packed in a strong outer packaging;

(2) For flammable liquids in Packing Group II, inner packagings not over 1.0 L (0.3 gallons) net capacity each, packed in a strong outer packaging.

(3) For flammable liquids in Packing Group III and combustible liquids, inner packagings not over 5.0 L (1.3 gallons) net capacity each, packed in a strong outer packaging.

(c) [Reserved]

(d) Alcoholic beverages. (1) An alcoholic beverage (wine and distilled spirits as defined in 27 CFR 4.10 and 5.11), when transported via motor vehicle, vessel, or rail, is not subject to the requirements of this subchapter if the alcoholic beverage:

(i) Contains 24 percent or less alcohol by volume;

(ii) Is contained in an inner packaging of 5 L (1.3 gallons) or less; or

(iii) Is a Packing Group III alcoholic beverage contained in a packaging 250 liters (66 gallons) or less;

(2) An alcoholic beverage (wine and distilled spirits as defined in 27 CFR 4.10 and 5.11), when transported via aircraft, is not subject to the requirements of this subchapter if the alcoholic beverage:

(i) Contains 24 percent or less alcohol by volume;

(ii) For transportation aboard a passenger-carrying aircraft, contains more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol by volume when in unopened retail packagings not exceeding 5 liters (1.3 gallons) carried in carry-on or checked baggage, with a total net quantity per person of 5 liters (1.3) gallons (See § 175.10(a)(4) of this subchapter); or

(iii) When carried as cargo, contains more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol by volume in an inner packaging not exceeding 5 L (1.3 gallons).

(e) Aqueous solutions of alcohol. An aqueous solution containing 24 percent or less alcohol by volume and no other hazardous material—

(1) May be reclassed as a combustible liquid.

(2) Is not subject to the requirements of this subchapter if it contains no less than 50 percent water.

(f) Combustible liquids. (1) A flammable liquid with a flash point at or above 38 °C (100 °F) that does not meet the definition of any other hazard class may be reclassed as a combustible liquid. This provision does not apply to transportation by vessel or aircraft, except where other means of transportation is impracticable.

(2) The requirements in this subchapter do not apply to a material classed as a combustible liquid in a non-bulk packaging unless the combustible liquid is a hazardous substance, a hazardous waste, or a marine pollutant.

(3) A combustible liquid that is in a bulk packaging or a combustible liquid that is a hazardous substance, a hazardous waste, or a marine pollutant is not subject to the requirements of this subchapter except those pertaining to:

(i) Shipping papers, waybills, switching orders, and hazardous waste manifests;

(ii) Marking of packages;

(iii) Display of identification numbers on bulk packages;

(iv) For bulk packagings only, placarding requirements of subpart F of part 172 of this subchapter;

(v) Carriage aboard aircraft and vessels (for packaging requirements for transport by vessel, see § 176.340 of this subchapter);

(vi) Reporting incidents as prescribed by §§ 171.15 and 171.16 of this subchapter;

(vii) Packaging requirements of subpart B of this part and, in addition, non-bulk packagings must conform with requirements of § 173.203;

(viii) The requirements of §§ 173.1, 173.21, 173.24, 173.24a, 173.24b, 174.1, 177.804, 177.817, 177.834(j), and 177.837(d) of this subchapter;

(ix) The training requirements of subpart H of part 172 of this subchapter;

(x) Emergency response information requirements of subpart G of part 172; and

(xi) For bulk packagings only, registration requirements of subpart G of part 107 of this subchapter.

(4) A combustible liquid that is not a hazardous substance, a hazardous waste, or a marine pollutant is not subject to the requirements of this subchapter if it is a mixture of one or more components that—

(i) Has a flash point at or above 93 °C (200 °F),

(ii) Comprises at least 99 percent of the volume of the mixture, and

(iii) Is not offered for transportation or transported as a liquid at a temperature at or above its flash point.

(g) Limited quantities of retail products containing ethyl alcohol. (1) Beverages, food, cosmetics and medicines, medical screening solutions, and concentrates sold as retail products containing ethyl alcohol classed as a flammable liquid or flammable solid containing not more than 70% ethyl alcohol by volume for liquids, by weight for solids are excepted from the HMR provided that:

(i) For non-glass inner packagings:

(A) The volume does not exceed 0.47 liters (0.125 gallons) in capacity for liquids; or

(B) For volumes greater than 0.47 liters (0.125 gallons) but not exceeding 3.8 liters (1 gallon) the company name and the words “Contains Ethyl Alcohol” are marked on the package;

(C) Solids containing ethyl alcohol may be packaged in non-glass inner packagings not exceeding 0.45 kilograms (1 pound) capacity;

(D) For weight greater than 0.45 kilograms (1 pound) up to 3.62 kilograms (8 pounds) the company name and the words “Contains Ethyl Alcohol” are marked on the package.

(ii) For glass inner packagings:

(A) The volume does not exceed 0.23 liters (.063 gallons) in capacity; or

(B) For volumes greater than 0.23 liters (.063 gallons) to 0.47 liters (0.125 gallons) the company name and the words “Contains Ethyl Alcohol” are marked on the package;

(C) Solids containing ethyl alcohol may be packaged in glass inner packagings not exceeding 0.22 kilograms (0.5 pounds);

(D) For weight greater than 0.22 kilograms (0.5 pounds) up to 0.45 kilograms (1 pound) the company name and the words “Contains Ethyl Alcohol” are marked on the package.

(iii) The net liquid contents of all inner packagings in any single outer packaging may not exceed 5.6 liters (1.5 gallons). The net solid contents of all inner packagings in any single outer packaging may not exceed 15 kilograms (33 pounds). The gross weight of any single outer package shipped may not exceed 30 kilograms (66 pounds); Inner packagings must be secured and cushioned within the outer package to prevent breakage, leakage, and shifting.

(2) Beverages, food, cosmetics and medicines, medical screening solutions, and concentrates sold as retail products containing ethyl alcohol classed as a flammable liquid or flammable solid containing more than 70% ethyl alcohol by volume, by weight for solids are excepted from the HMR provided that:

(i) For inner packagings containing liquids the volume does not exceed 0.23 liters (0.063 gallons) in capacity;

(ii) Solids containing ethyl alcohol are not packed in inner packagings exceeding 0.22 kilograms (0.5 pounds) in weight;

(iii) The net liquid contents of all inner packagings in any single outer packaging may not exceed 5.6 liters (1.5 gallons). The net solid contents of all inner packagings in any single outer packaging may not exceed 15 kilograms (33 pounds). The gross weight of any single outer package shipped may not exceed 30 kilograms (66 pounds). Inner packagings must be secured and cushioned within the outer package to prevent breakage, leakage, and shifting.

(3) For transportation by passenger or cargo aircraft, no outer package may be transported which contains an inner packaging exceeding:

(i) 0.47 liters (0.125 gallons) of flammable liquid; or

(ii) 0.45 kilograms (1 pound) of solids containing flammable liquid.

(h) Diesel fuel (NA1993) and Gasoline (UN1203) may be transported one way, by motor vehicle, directly from the loading location to an equipment repair facility, in a non-DOT specification, non-bulk packaging, known as a gasoline dispenser, that has been removed from service at a fueling station under the following conditions:

(1) Prior to loading, each dispenser must be prepared for transportation by capping or plugging all product inlet and outlet piping, so that no fluid may be released during transportation;

(2) No dispenser may contain more than 2 gallons of gasoline; and

(3) Each dispenser must be blocked, braced or strapped to the motor vehicle in accordance with the requirements of this subchapter to prevent shifting during transportation.

(i) Reverse logistics. Hazardous materials meeting the definition of “reverse logistics” under § 171.8 of this subchapter and in compliance with paragraph (b) of this section may be offered for transport and transported in highway transportation in accordance with § 173.157.

[Amdt. 173–224, 55 FR 52634, Dec. 21, 1990] Editorial Note:For Federal Register citations affecting § 173.150, see the List of CFR Sections Affected, which appears in the Finding Aids section of the printed volume and at www.govinfo.gov.

§ 173.151 - Exceptions for Class 4.

(a) General. Exceptions for hazardous materials shipments in the following paragraphs are permitted only if this section is referenced for the specific hazardous material in the § 172.101 table of this subchapter.

(b) Limited quantities of Division 4.1. (1) Limited quantities of flammable solids (Division 4.1) in Packing Groups II and III and, where authorized by this section, charcoal briquettes (Division 4.2) in Packing Group III, are excepted from labeling requirements unless the material is offered for transportation or transported by aircraft, and are excepted from the specification packaging requirements of this subchapter when packaged in combination packagings according to this paragraph. If authorized for transportation by aircraft, the package must also conform to applicable requirements of § 173.27 of this part (e.g., authorized materials, inner packaging quantity limits and closure securement) and only hazardous material authorized aboard passenger-carrying aircraft may be transported as a limited quantity. A limited quantity package that conforms to the provisions of this section is not subject to the shipping paper requirements of subpart C of part 172 of this subchapter, unless the material meets the definition of a hazardous substance, hazardous waste, marine pollutant, or is offered for transportation and transported by aircraft or vessel, and is eligible for the exceptions provided in § 173.156 of this part. In addition, shipments of limited quantities are not subject to subpart F (Placarding) of part 172 of this subchapter. Each package must conform to the packaging requirements of subpart B of this part and may not exceed 30 kg (66 pounds) gross weight. Except for transportation by aircraft, the following combination packagings are authorized:

(i) For flammable solids in Packing Group II, inner packagings not over 1.0 kg (2.2 pounds) or 1 L (0.3 gallon) net capacity each, packed in a strong outer packaging.

(ii) For flammable solids in Packing Group III, inner packagings not over 5.0 kg (11 pounds) or 5.0 L (1.3 gallon) net capacity each, packed in a strong outer packaging.

(2) For transportation by highway or rail, Charcoal briquettes (NA1361) may be packaged as a limited quantity in accordance with paragraph (b) of this section in packagings not exceeding 30 kg gross weight and are eligible for the exceptions provided in § 173.156.

(c) [Reserved]

(d) Limited quantities of Division 4.3. Limited quantities of dangerous when wet solids (Division 4.3) in Packing Groups II and III are excepted from labeling requirements, unless the material is offered for transportation or transported by aircraft, and are excepted from the specification packaging requirements of this subchapter when packaged in combination packagings according to this paragraph. For transportation by aircraft, the package must also conform to applicable requirements of § 173.27 of this part (e.g., authorized materials, inner packaging quantity limits and closure securement) and only hazardous material authorized aboard passenger-carrying aircraft may be transported as a limited quantity. A limited quantity package that conforms to the provisions of this section is not subject to the shipping paper requirements of subpart C of part 172 of this subchapter, unless the material meets the definition of a hazardous substance, hazardous waste, marine pollutant, or is offered for transportation and transported by aircraft or vessel. In addition, shipments of limited quantities are not subject to subpart F (Placarding) of part 172 of this subchapter. Each package must conform to the packaging requirements of subpart B of this part and may not exceed 30 kg (66 pounds) gross weight. Except for transportation by aircraft, the following combination packagings are authorized:

(1) For dangerous when wet solids in Packing Group II, inner packagings not over 0.5 kg (1.1 pounds) net capacity each, packed in a strong outer packaging.

(2) For dangerous when wet solids in Packing Group III, inner packagings not over 1.0 kg (2.2 pounds) net capacity each, packed in a strong outer packaging.

(e) For transportation by motor vehicle only, Lithium (UN1415), Potassium (UN2257), and Sodium (UN1428) with a net quantity of material per inner packaging not exceeding 25 grams, are excepted from the labeling requirements of part 172, subpart E and the placarding requirements of part 172, subpart F of this subchapter, when offered for transportation in the following packagings under the following conditions:

(1) Packaging. (i) The hazardous material is placed in a tightly closed plastic bottle after being submerged in mineral oil;

(ii) The plastic bottle is placed inside a plastic bag that is securely closed to prevent leaks or punctures;

(iii) The bagged bottle is then be placed inside a metal can with all void spaces filled with an oil-absorbing material and sealed tight; and

(iv) The can is then placed into a heat sealed barrier bag.

(2) Marking. Each inner plastic bottle, outer metal can, and barrier bag must be marked with: Chemical name; quantity; and the name and address of the offeror. Each outer packaging must be marked with the proper shipping name and identification number in conformance with § 172.301. Additionally, each outer packaging must be marked, “FOR TRANSPORT BY MOTOR VEHICLE ONLY.”

(3) Recordkeeping. (i) Records of the preparation, packaging, and marking of each chemical must be documented and all components in each package must be noted; and

(ii) Records must be retained for a minimum of 5 years and be accessible at or through the shipper's principal place of business and be made available, upon request, to the Associate Administrator or designated official.

(f) Reverse logistics. Except for Division 4.2 hazardous materials and self-reactive materials, hazardous materials meeting the definition of “reverse logistics” under § 171.8 of this subchapter and in compliance with paragraph (b) of this section may be offered for transport and transported in highway transportation in accordance with § 173.157.

[Amdt. 173–224, 55 FR 52634, Dec. 21, 1990] Editorial Note:For Federal Register citations affecting § 173.151, see the List of CFR Sections Affected, which appears in the Finding Aids section of the printed volume and at www.govinfo.gov.

§ 173.152 - Exceptions for Division 5.1 (oxidizers) and Division 5.2 (organic peroxides).

(a) General. Exceptions for hazardous materials shipments in the following paragraphs are permitted only if this section is referenced for the specific hazardous material in the § 172.101 table of this subchapter.

(b) Limited quantities. Limited quantities of oxidizers (Division 5.1) in Packing Group II and III and organic peroxides (Division 5.2) are excepted from labeling requirements, unless the material is offered for transportation or transported by aircraft, and are excepted from the specification packaging requirements of this subchapter when packaged in combination packagings according to this paragraph. For transportation by aircraft, the package must also conform to applicable requirements of § 173.27 of this part (e.g., authorized materials, inner packaging quantity limits and closure securement) and only hazardous material authorized aboard passenger-carrying aircraft may be transported as a limited quantity. A limited quantity package that conforms to the provisions of this section is not subject to the shipping paper requirements of subpart C of part 172 of this subchapter, unless the material meets the definition of a hazardous substance, hazardous waste, marine pollutant, or is offered for transportation and transported by aircraft or vessel, and is eligible for the exceptions provided in § 173.156 of this part. In addition, shipments of limited quantities are not subject to subpart F (Placarding) of part 172 of this subchapter. Each package must conform to the packaging requirements of subpart B of this part and may not exceed 30 kg (66 pounds) gross weight. Except for transportation by aircraft, the following combination packagings are authorized:

(1) For oxidizers in Packing Group II, inner packagings not over 1.0 L (0.3 gallon) net capacity each for liquids or not over 1.0 kg (2.2 pounds) net capacity each for solids, packed in a strong outer packaging.

(2) For oxidizers in Packing Group III, inner packagings not over 5 L (1.3 gallons) net capacity each for liquids or not over 5.0 kg (11 lbs) net capacity each for solids, packed in a strong outer packaging.

(3) For organic peroxides that do not require temperature control during transportation—

(i) Except for transportation by aircraft, for Type B or C organic peroxides, inner packagings not over 25 mL (0.845 ounces) net capacity each for liquids or 100 g (3.528 ounces) net capacity for solids, packed in a strong outer packaging.

(ii) For Type D, E, or F organic peroxides, inner packagings not over 125 mL (4.22 ounces) net capacity each for liquids or 500 g (17.64 ounces) net capacity for solids, packed in a strong outer packaging.

(c) [Reserved]

(d) Reverse logistics. Except for Division 5.2 hazardous materials, hazardous materials meeting the definition of “reverse logistics” under § 171.8 of this subchapter and in compliance with paragraph (b) of this section may be offered for transport and transported in highway transportation in accordance with § 173.157.

[Amdt. 173–224, 55 FR 52634, Dec. 21, 1990, as amended by Amdt. 173–231, 57 FR 52940, Nov. 5, 1992; Amdt. 173–241, 59 FR 67508, Dec. 29, 1994; Amdt. 173–261, 62 FR 24733, May 6, 1997; 66 FR 45381, Aug. 28, 2001; 68 FR 45033, July 31, 2003; 69 FR 76156, Dec. 20, 2004; 71 FR 14603, Mar. 22, 2006; 72 FR 55692, Oct. 1, 2007; 76 FR 3374, Jan. 19, 2011; 78 FR 1114, Jan. 7, 2013; 81 FR 18539, Mar. 31, 2016; 87 FR 79776, Dec. 27, 2022]

§ 173.153 - Exceptions for Division 6.1 (poisonous materials).

(a) General. Exceptions for hazardous materials shipments in the following paragraphs are permitted only if this section is referenced for the specific hazardous material in the § 172.101 table of this subchapter.

(b) Limited quantities. The exceptions in this paragraph do not apply to poison-by-inhalation materials. Limited quantities of poisonous material (Division 6.1) in Packing Groups II and III are excepted from the labeling requirements, unless the material is offered for transportation or transported by aircraft, and are excepted from the specification packaging requirements of this subchapter when packaged in combination packagings according to this paragraph. For transportation by aircraft, the package must also conform to applicable requirements of § 173.27 of this part (e.g., authorized materials, inner packaging quantity limits and closure securement) and only hazardous material authorized aboard passenger-carrying aircraft may be transported as a limited quantity. A limited quantity package that conforms to the provisions of this section is not subject to the shipping paper requirements of subpart C of part 172 of this subchapter, unless the material meets the definition of a hazardous substance, hazardous waste, marine pollutant, or is offered for transportation and transported by aircraft or vessel, and is eligible for the exceptions provided in § 173.156 of this part. In addition, shipments of limited quantities are not subject to subpart F (Placarding) of part 172 of this subchapter. Each package must conform to the packaging requirements of subpart B of this part and may not exceed 30 kg (66 pounds) gross weight. Except for transportation by aircraft, the following combination packagings are authorized:

(1) For poisonous materials in Packing Group II, inner packagings not over 100 mL (3.38 ounces) each for liquids or 0.5 kg (1.1 pounds) each for solids, packed in a strong outer packaging. Inner packagings containing a liquid poisonous material which is also a drug or medicine in Packing Group II may be increased to not over 250 mL (8 ounces) each and packed in a strong outer packaging.

(2) For poisonous materials in Packing Group III, inner packagings not over 5 L (1.3 gallons) each for liquids or 5.0 kg (11 pounds) each for solids, packed in a strong outer packaging.

(c) [Reserved]

(d) Reverse logistics. Hazardous materials meeting the definition of “reverse logistics” under § 171.8 of this subchapter and in compliance with paragraph (b) of this section may be offered for transport and transported in highway transportation in accordance with § 173.157.

[Amdt. 173–224, 55 FR 52634, Dec. 21, 1990, as amended by Amdt. 173–231, 57 FR 52940, Nov. 5, 1992; 66 FR 45381, Aug. 28, 2001; 68 FR 45033, July 31, 2003; 69 FR 76156, Dec. 20, 2004; 71 FR 14603, Mar. 22, 2006; 71 FR 54938, Sept. 20, 2006; 76 FR 3374, Jan. 19, 2011; 78 FR 1114, Jan. 7, 2013; 81 FR 18539, Mar. 31, 2016; 87 FR 79776, Dec. 27, 2022]

§ 173.154 - Exceptions for Class 8 (corrosive materials).

(a) General. Exceptions for hazardous materials shipments in the following paragraphs are permitted only if this section is referenced for the specific hazardous material in the § 172.101 table of this subchapter.

(b) Limited quantities. Limited quantities of corrosive material (Class 8) in Packing Groups II and III are excepted from labeling requirements, unless the material is offered for transportation or transported by aircraft, and are excepted from the specification packaging requirements of this subchapter when packaged in combination packagings according to this paragraph. For transportation by aircraft, the package must also conform to the applicable requirements of § 173.27 of this part (e.g., authorized materials, inner packaging quantity limits and closure securement) and only hazardous material authorized aboard passenger-carrying aircraft may be transported as a limited quantity. A limited quantity package that conforms to the provisions of this section is not subject to the shipping paper requirements of subpart C of part 172 of this subchapter, unless the material meets the definition of a hazardous substance, hazardous waste, marine pollutant, or is offered for transportation and transported by aircraft or vessel, and is eligible for the exceptions provided in § 173.156 of this part. In addition, shipments of limited quantities are not subject to subpart F (Placarding) of part 172 of this subchapter. Each package must conform to the packaging requirements of subpart B of this part and may not exceed 30 kg (66 pounds) gross weight. Except for transportation by aircraft, the following combination packagings are authorized:

(1) For corrosive materials in Packing Group II, inner packagings not over 1.0 L (0.3 gallon) net capacity each for liquids or not over 1.0 kg (2.2 pounds) net capacity each for solids, packed in a strong outer packaging.

(2) For corrosive materials in Packing Group III, inner packagings not over 5.0 L (1.3 gallons) net capacity each for liquids or not over 5.0 kg (11 lbs) net capacity each for solids, packed in a strong outer packaging.

(c) [Reserved]

(d) Materials corrosive to aluminum or steel only. Except for a hazardous substance, a hazardous waste, or a marine pollutant, a material classed as a Class 8, Packing Group III, material solely because of its corrosive effect—

(1) On aluminum is not subject to any other requirements of this subchapter when transported by motor vehicle or rail car in a packaging constructed of materials that will not react dangerously with or be degraded by the corrosive material; or

(2) On steel is not subject to any other requirements of this subchapter when transported by motor vehicle or rail car in a bulk packaging constructed of materials that will not react dangerously with or be degraded by the corrosive material.

(e) Reverse logistics. Hazardous materials meeting the definition of “reverse logistics” under § 171.8 of this subchapter and in compliance with paragraph (b) of this section may be offered for transport and transported in highway transportation in accordance with § 173.157.

[Amdt. 173–224, 55 FR 52634, Dec. 21, 1990, as amended at 56 FR 66270, Dec. 20, 1991; 57 FR 45463, Oct. 1, 1992; Amdt. 173–231, 57 FR 52940, Nov. 5, 1992; 68 FR 45033, July 31, 2003; 69 FR 76157, Dec. 20, 2004; 71 FR 14603, Mar. 22, 2006; 72 FR 55693, Oct. 1, 2007; 76 FR 3374, Jan. 19, 2011; ; 78 FR 1114, Jan. 7, 2013; 81 FR 18539, Mar. 31, 2016; 87 FR 79776, Dec. 27, 2022]

§ 173.155 - Exceptions for Class 9 (miscellaneous hazardous materials).

(a) General. Exceptions for hazardous materials shipments in the following paragraphs are permitted only if this section is referenced for the specific hazardous material in the § 172.101 table of this subchapter.

(b) Limited quantities of Class 9 materials. Limited quantities of miscellaneous hazardous materials in Packing Groups II and III are excepted from labeling requirements, unless the material is offered for transportation or transported by aircraft, and are excepted from the specification packaging requirements of this subchapter when packaged in combination packagings according to this paragraph. Unless otherwise specified in paragraph (c) of this section, packages of limited quantities intended for transportation by aircraft must conform to the applicable requirements (e.g., authorized materials, inner packaging quantity limits and closure securement) of § 173.27 of this part. A limited quantity package that conforms to the provisions of this section is not subject to the shipping paper requirements of subpart C of part 172 of this subchapter, unless the material meets the definition of a hazardous substance, hazardous waste, marine pollutant, or is offered for transportation and transported by aircraft or vessel, and is eligible for the exceptions provided in § 173.156 of this part. In addition, packages of limited quantities are not subject to subpart F (Placarding) of part 172 of this subchapter. Each package must conform to the packaging requirements of subpart B of this part and may not exceed 30 kg (66 pounds) gross weight. Except for transportation by aircraft, the following combination packagings are authorized:

(1) For miscellaneous materials in Packing Group II, inner packagings not over 1.0 L (0.3 gallon) net capacity each for liquids or not over 1.0 kg (2.2 pounds) net capacity each for solids, packed in a strong outer packaging.

(2) For miscellaneous materials in Packing Group III, inner packagings not over 5.0 L (1.3 gallons) net capacity each for liquids or not over 5.0 kg (11 lbs) net capacity each for solids, packed in a strong outer packaging.

(c) [Reserved]

(d) Reverse logistics. Except for Lithium batteries, hazardous materials meeting the definition of “reverse logistics” under § 171.8 of this subchapter and in compliance with paragraph (b) of this section may be offered for transport and transported in highway transportation in accordance with § 173.157.

[Amdt. 173–224, 55 FR 52634, Dec. 21, 1990, as amended at 56 FR 66270, Dec. 20, 1991; Amdt. 173–231, 57 FR 52940, Nov. 5, 1992; Amdt. 173–253, 61 FR 27174, May 30, 1996; 71 FR 14603, Mar. 22, 2006; 76 FR 3375, Jan. 19, 2011; 78 FR 1114, Jan. 7, 2013; 81 FR 18540, Mar. 31, 2016; 87 FR 79776, Dec. 27, 2022]

§ 173.156 - Exceptions for limited quantity materials.

(a) Applicability. Exceptions for hazardous materials shipments in the following paragraphs are permitted only if this section is referenced for the specific hazardous material in the § 172.101 Table or in a packaging section in this part.

(b) Additional packaging exceptions. Packagings for limited quantity materials are specified according to hazard class in §§ 173.150 through 173.155, 173.306, and 173.309(b). In addition to exceptions provided for limited quantity materials elsewhere in this part, the following are provided:

(1) Strong outer packagings as specified in this part, marking requirements specified in subpart D of part 172 of this subchapter, and the 30 kg (66 pounds) gross weight limitation when—

(i) Unitized in cages, carts, boxes or similar overpacks;

(ii) Offered for transportation or transported by:

(A) Rail;

(B) Private or contract motor carrier; or

(C) Common carrier in a vehicle under exclusive use for such service; and

(iii) Transported to or from a manufacturer, a distribution center, or a retail outlet, or transported to a disposal facility from one offeror.

(2) The 30 kg (66 pounds) gross weight limitation does not apply to packages of limited quantity materials marked in accordance with § 172.315 of this subchapter when offered for transportation or transported by highway or rail between a manufacturer, a distribution center, and a retail outlet provided—

(i) Inner packagings conform to the quantity limits for inner packagings specified in §§ 173.150(b), 173.152(b), 173.154(b), 173.155(b), 173.306(a) and (b), and 173.309(b), as appropriate;

(ii) The inner packagings are packed into corrugated fiberboard trays to prevent them from moving freely;

(iii) The trays are placed in a fiberboard box which is banded and secured to a metal, plastic, composite, or wooden pallet by metal, fabric, or plastic straps, to form a single palletized unit. Hazardous materials should be compatible with the pallet material;

(iv) The package conforms to the general packaging requirements of subpart B of this part; and

(v) The maximum net quantity of hazardous material permitted on one palletized unit is 250 kg (550 pounds).

(c) Display packs. Display packs, as defined in § 171.8 of this subchapter, of consumer commodity or limited quantity packages that exceed 30 kg gross weight limitation may be transported by container/trailer in trailer-on-flatcar (TOFC) or container-on-flat-car (COFC) service, roadrailer and/or railrunner trailers, motor vehicle, or cargo vessel under the following conditions:

(1) Packaging. Combination packages must conform to the requirements of subpart B of this part and meet the following, as appropriate:

(i) Primary containers must conform to the quantity limits for inner packagings prescribed in §§ 173.150(b), 173.152(b), 173.154(b), 173.155(b) and 173.306(a) and (b), as appropriate;

(ii) Primary containers must be packed into trays that secure individual containers from shifting inside the completed combination package during transportation;

(iii) Tray(s) must be placed into a fiberboard box, and the fiberboard box must be banded and secured to a pallet by metal, fabric, or plastic straps to form a single palletized unit; and

(iv) The maximum net quantity of hazardous material permitted in one palletized unit is 550 kg (1,210 lbs.).

(2) Marking. The outside of each package must be plainly and durably marked in accordance with one of the following, as appropriate:

(i) As a consumer commodity as prescribed in § 172.316 of this subchapter; or

(ii) As a limited quantity as prescribed in § 172.315 of this subchapter.

(d) Exceptions for waste limited quantity materials. Exceptions for certain waste limited quantity materials are prescribed in § 173.12(h).

[78 FR 1114, Jan. 7, 2013, as amended at 78 FR 65481, Oct. 31, 2013; 80 FR 72924, Nov. 23, 2015; 81 FR 3673, Jan. 21, 2016; 83 FR 55809, Nov. 7, 2018; 87 FR 79776, Dec. 27, 2022]

§ 173.157 - Reverse logistics—General requirements and exceptions for reverse logistics.

(a) Authorized hazardous materials. Hazardous materials may be offered for transport and transported in highway transportation under this section when they meet the definition of reverse logistics as defined under § 171.8 of this subchapter. However, hazardous materials that meet the definition of a hazardous waste as defined in § 171.8 of this subchapter are not permitted to be offered for transport or transported under this section. Hazardous materials authorized for transport according to a special permit as defined in § 171.8 of this subchapter must be offered for transportation and transported as authorized by the special permit.

(b) When offered for transport or transported by non-private carrier. Hazardous materials must be both authorized for limited quantity provisions as well as explicitly authorized for reverse logistics transportation under their applicable limited quantities section. Except for alternative training provisions authorized under paragraph (e) of this section, all hazardous materials must otherwise meet the requirements for a limited quantity shipment.

(c) When offered for transport or transported by private carrier. Hazardous materials are authorized under paragraph (b) of this section or are subject to the following limitations:

(1) Division 1.4G materials offered for transport and transported in accordance with § 173.65 of this subchapter.

(2) When sold in retail facilities; Division 1.4G or 1.4S fireworks, Division 1.4G ammunition, or Division 1.4G or 1.4S flares. Shipments offered for transport or transported under this subparagraph are limited to 30 kg (66 pounds) per package. All explosive materials subject to an approval must meet the terms of the approval, including packaging required by the approval.

(3) Equipment powered by flammable liquids or flammable gases.

(i) Flammable liquid-powered equipment. The fuel tank and fuel lines of equipment powered by an internal combustion engine must be in the closed position, and all fuel tank caps or closures must be securely in place.

(ii) Flammable gas-powered equipment. A combustion engine using flammable gas fuel or other devices using flammable gas fuel (such as camping equipment, lighting devices, and torch kits) must have the flammable gas source disconnected and all shut-off devices in the closed position.

(4) Division 2.1 or 2.2 compressed gases weighing less than 66 pounds and sold as retail products. For the purposes of this section a cylinder or aerosol container may be assumed to meet the definition of a Division 2.1 or 2.2 materials, respectively, even if the exact pressure is unknown.

(5) Materials shipped under this paragraph (c) must also comply with the segregation requirements as required in § 177.848.

(6) Shipments made under this section are subject to the incident reporting requirements in § 171.15.

(d) Hazard communication. Hazardous materials offered for transportation and transported by private carrier in accordance with paragraph (c) of this section may use the marking “REVERSE LOGISTICS—HIGHWAY TRANSPORT ONLY—UNDER 49 CFR 173.157” as an alternative to the surface limited quantity marking found under § 172.315(a). Size marking requirements found in § 172.301(a)(1) apply.

(e) Training. (1) Any person preparing a shipment under this section must have clear instructions on preparing the reverse logistics shipment to the supplier, manufacturer, or distributor from the retail store. This includes information to properly classify, package, mark, offer, and transport. These instructions must be provided by the supplier, manufacturer, or distributor to ensure the shipment is correctly prepared for transportation or through training requirements prescribed under part 172 subpart H of this subchapter.

(2) Employers who do not provide training under part 172 subpart H of this subchapter must:

(i) Identify hazardous materials subject to the provisions of this section, verify compliance with the appropriate conditions and limitations, as well as ensure clear instructions from the manufacturer, supplier, or distributor associated with product's origination or destination;

(ii) Ensure clear instructions provided are known and accessible to the employee at the time they are preparing the shipment; and

(iii) Document that employees are familiar with the requirements of this section as well as the specific return instructions for the products offered under this section. Documentation must be retained while the employee is employed and 60-days thereafter. Alternatively, recordkeeping requirements under part 172 subpart H may be used.

[81 FR 18540, Mar. 31, 2016]