In the logistics and transportation sector, correct usage of hazardous materials labels is crucial. To ensure safety during transport, it is essential to follow the United Nations-recommended hazardous materials labeling system. Below is a detailed introduction to common hazardous materials labels and their classifications.
1. Hazardous Materials Classification Labels
Hazardous materials are divided into multiple categories, each with corresponding symbols and labels to indicate safety precautions needed during transportation and handling.
1. Explosives (Class 1)
- Symbol : Black bomb image on orange-yellow background with the number "1" in the bottom corner. Includes Class 1.1, 1.2, and 1.3 explosives with explosive properties; Class 1.4, 1.5, and 1.6 represent explosives that do not pose significant hazards.
2. Gases (Class 2)
- Flammable gases (Class 2.1): Black flame on red background with number "2" in the bottom corner.
- Non-flammable, non-toxic gases (Class 2.2): Black gas cylinder on green background.
- Toxic gases (Class 2.3): Black skull and crossbones on white background.
3. Flammable Liquids (Class 3)
- Symbol : Black or white flame on red background with number "3" in the bottom corner.
4. Flammable Solids and Spontaneously Combustible Substances (Class 4)
- Flammable solids (Class 4.1): Black flame on white background with seven vertical red stripes.
- Spontaneously combustible substances (Class 4.2): Black flame on white and red divided background.
- Substances that emit flammable gases when in contact with water (Class 4.3): Blue background.
5. Oxidizing Agents and Organic Peroxides (Class 5)
- Oxidizing agents (Class 5.1): Black flame on yellow background with number "5.1".
- Organic peroxides (Class 5.2): Similar to oxidizing agents but with number "5.2".
6. Toxic and Infectious Substances (Class 6)
- Toxic substances (Class 6.1): Skull and crossbones symbol on white background.
- Infectious substances (Class 6.2): May include "Infectious Substance" label at bottom and instructions to notify public health authorities in case of leakage.
7. Radioactive Materials (Class 7)
- Symbol : White background with black "FISSILE" label in upper half and black-bordered "Criticality Safety index..." text.
8. Corrosive Substances (Class 8)
- Symbol : Image showing liquid corroding skin and metal, with white upper half and black lower half, and number "8" in the bottom corner.
9. Miscellaneous Hazardous Substances (Class 9)
- Symbol : White background with seven vertical stripes in upper half and number "9" in the bottom corner.
Conclusion
Understanding and adhering to these hazardous materials labels is not just a legal requirement but also a critical measure for protecting human and environmental safety. During logistics transportation, it is essential to ensure that all hazardous materials are clearly and properly labeled to minimize potential risks. Proper handling and classification of hazardous materials can not only improve transportation efficiency but also effectively prevent safety incidents.
