Classification Dangerous Goods

Class 1: Explosive Substances

Explosive substances are substances and objects that release large quantities of gas associated with pressure and heat within a short period of time as a result of chemical reactions. These substances can easily explode if transported improperly, which can cause considerable damage.

The subclasses range from 1.1 (mass explosion) to 1.6 (extremely insensitive substances), depending on the hazard.

Explosive substances require special storage, ventilation and safety precautions to avoid shocks or sparks.

Examples: Fireworks, dynamite, ammunition

Class 2: Gases

Gases are divided into three main types: compressed gases, liquefied gases and refrigerated gases. They can be flammable, toxic or asphyxiating.

Subclasses:

• 2.1: Flammable gases (e.g. propane, butane)

• 2.2: Non-flammable, non-toxic gases (e.g. helium)

• 2.3: Toxic gases (e.g. chlorine)

During transport, pressurised containers must be properly sealed, secured against leaks and pressure-stable. Cooling is required for certain gases in order to avoid explosive expansions.

Examples: Propane gas, nitrogen, acetylene, oxygen

Class 3: Flammable Liquids

This class includes liquids that are highly flammable and can mix with oxygen in air to create a flammable atmosphere. A spark or heating is often enough to cause an explosion or fire, so the ignition temperature is a critical factor. Vapours from these liquids are also extremely dangerous.

Transport containers must be tightly sealed and protected against heat. Maintaining safe distances from flammable sources is mandatory.

Examples: Petrol, ethanol, paints, solvents

Class 4: Flammable solids, substances liable to spontaneous combustion and substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases

This class contains solids that can catch fire or explode due to friction, moisture or heat. Some substances can even ignite spontaneously.

Subclasses:

• 4.1: Flammable solids (e.g. sulphur)

• 4.2: Self-igniting substances (e.g. phosphorus)

• 4.3: Substances which develop flammable gases on contact with water (e.g. calcium carbide)

These goods must be packed dry, away from ignition sources and with special care to prevent reactions.

Examples: Magnesium, sulphur, potassium, matches

Class 5: Oxidising substances and organic peroxides

Oxidising substances are chemical compounds that release oxygen and can accelerate the combustion of other materials. Organic peroxides are particularly reactive chemicals that can decompose violently and explode.

Subclasses:

• 5.1: Oxidising substances (e.g. potassium nitrate)

• 5.2: Organic peroxides (e.g. methyl ethyl ketone peroxide)

These substances must be transported separately from flammable materials. They often require cooling to prevent spontaneous decomposition.

Examples: Hydrogen peroxide, potassium nitrate, ammonium nitrate

Class 6: Toxic Substances and Infectious Substances

These substances pose an immediate risk to health as they can cause severe poisoning if inhaled, swallowed or come into contact with the skin. Infectious substances contain pathogens that can cause disease.

Subclasses:

• 6.1: Toxic substances (e.g. arsenic, mercury)

• 6.2: Infectious substances (e.g. medical samples containing dangerous pathogens)

For toxic substances, tight and secure packaging is essential to prevent leaks. Infectious substances require sterilised and sealed packaging as well as special labelling.

Examples: Cyanides, pesticides, medical waste and samples containing viruses

Class 7: Radioactive Substances

Radioactive materials emit ionising radiation, which can be extremely dangerous for humans and the environment. The radiation can damage DNA and lead to serious illnesses. The danger posed is determined by the radiation intensity and the half-life of the substances.

Radioactive substances must be transported in specially shielded containers to block radiation. Strict authorisations and monitoring protocols are required.

Examples: Uranium, plutonium, radioactive isotopes for medical applications

Class 8: Corrosive Substances

Corrosive substances can destroy organic tissue or metals on contact. They are dangerous because they not only harm people and animals, but can also corrode containers and vehicles. They can cause irreversible damage to skin and eyes. There is also a risk of chemical reactions with other materials.

Special corrosion-resistant containers must be used during transport and the packages must be securely sealed.

Examples: Sulphuric acid, hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide (caustic soda)

Class 9: Various Dangerous Substances and Objects

This class includes a large number of substances that are hazardous but cannot be clearly categorised in the other classes. These include environmentally hazardous substances, magnetic materials or heated materials.

Packaging often has to be customised and, depending on the type of hazard, special regulations apply for handling, storage and transport.

Examples: Asbestos, lithium batteries, environmentally hazardous chemicals