If you want to transport or store dangerous goods, you have to do this using special containers. Containers like un 4g boxes meet all the necessary specifications. If you don’t follow regulations, you could expose yourself to hefty fines, as well as placing people in danger.
Understanding Dangerous Goods
Dangerous goods are very different from other types of goods, and it is for good reason that stringent rules and regulations are in place. These regulations must be followed to keep the planet as a whole safe. Breaking these rules is punished quite harshly, and it is also unethical.
The list of things that are classed as ‘dangerous goods’ is quite lengthy. Each will have specific rules and regulations in terms of how they should be stored and transported. Hence, you should always look up whether any rules are in place for any item you are dealing with. You may also be required to hold a specific license if you do want to transport or store these goods, so make sure you check with the relevant authorities.
Usually, there are three main categories of dangerous goods. These are:
- Nuclear items
- Chemical and medical items
- Explosive and highly combustible items
For each of these items, special containers are needed so that they can be transported safely.
Hazmat boxes are used to transport hazardous materials. If the item is fragile, they will be placed in a convoluted urethane foam before being placed inside a corrugated box. This will protect both the item and the public.
Packaging must be done by people who are trained in handling hazardous materials. If done by someone who isn’t trained, there is a significant risk of something going wrong.
Each item must also be packaged in a separate container, even if they fall in the same category. Additionally, you must make sure that you maintain the rules and regulations on gross weight. Sometimes, you have to do this by adding all the different packages together, particularly if they are pelleted.
Two types of packaging styles exist:
- Single packing
- Combination packing
As the name suggest, combination packing means that different types of placed together, with cushions in between the two. With single packing, there is just one container to deal with.
You should get your materials from vendors who are regulated and knowledgeable about the world of hazardous materials. They should list the specifications for all their materials and explain how these meet the regulations. Working with experienced vendors will also ensure you have somewhere to go with questions, which can be particularly important if you don’t have experience with hazardous materials. They may also be able to help you with actually packing your items up.
Hazardous materials are hazardous for a reason – they can cause a danger to the environment and to people. They should be handled with care, both to protect the item and to protect the things and beings they pose a risk to. Never take any chances and always double check if you’re not 100% sure.