Packaging Instructions For Dangerous Goods
Shipping goods by air is a very easy and convenient option, provided the goods are well packed. Many dangerous goods have to be packed with extra care during shipping through the air. So, there are many instructions for the best packaging of those dangerous goods, and they are mentioned in International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR). Some hazardous elements like explosives, some gases, and some radioactive elements have different packing requirements that need to be different from other packaging types.
1.Quality of Packaging Material
To withstand the usual rough processes throughout shipping, the quality of the packaging material should be very good. It will also save the goods being shipped from damages.
2.Construction of Package
If the construction of the package is not good, then the package content may get lost. So, the proper construction of the package is very important to prevent such losses. There are specific packaging materials meant for different goods in order to maintain the strength and durability of the product.
3.Sealing of Package
The packages should be properly sealed to prevent the losses of package contents and avoid any other mishap caused by the goods of the packages. Often goods start leaking; thus, a sealed package helps keep the material within the sealed container.
4. Taking Good Care of Dangerous Residues
If any residue of the dangerous goods comes out of the package, it can be hazardous to humanity. To avoid that, the packages must be closed properly according to the manufacturer’s specifications. It should never be opened without any expert supervision.
5. Wood Packaging Material To Be Properly Checked
Wood must be packed using the materials recognized by the International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15 (ISPM15) and EU Commission Directive 2004/102/EC. They have distinct chemical and physical properties, which can be retained using specific packaging material only.
6. Chemical Reaction Must Be Avoided
Package materials should not easily become softened, brittle, or permeable in temperature fluctuation experienced during air transportation. The materials should not also perform the chemical reaction with its contents; otherwise, the concoction can prove hazardous to health and may affect many people.
7. Proper Closure of Liquid Contents
If the package contains liquid goods, then the goods should be properly sealed with tapes or friction sleeves, etc. Moreover, the goods should be absolutely leak-proof.
8. Temperature and Vibration Must Be Considered
Packages should have the capability to withstand extreme temperatures and vibrations. It should be strong enough to withstand the friction caused during movement and transportation.
9. Check For Compatibility of Co-shipping Goods
If more than one type of goods is packed together, their compatibility with each other must be properly checked. The inner packaging should be up to the mark, and the overall packaging specifications should be properly maintained for the case of every package content.
10. Different Outer and Inner Packaging Combination Should be Properly Tested
Different combinations of outer and inner packages can be used only if the compatibility of the combinations is thoroughly checked.
11. Friction Effects Must be Considered
Outer packages should be made in such a way that they can resist dangerous heat due to friction.
12. Unauthorized Venting Must be avoided
Venting, which is commonly used for shipping dry ice, must not be done without authorization by DGR.
13. Required Marks and Labels Must be Properly Applied
The shipment packages should be of such size that the required marks and labels can easily accommodate the package.
14. Voids Must be Properly Cushioned
If there is any void between the outer and inner packages, then heavy foam should be properly used to fill them. If required, fewer inner packages should be accommodated for a greater amount of cushioning.
15. Old Packaging Materials Must be Avoided
More than five years old plastic drums, jerricans, rigid plastic intermediate bulk containers (IBC), and composite IBCs with plastic inner receptacles must be avoided for packaging.
PGII Specified Packaging: PGII specified packaging must be used for self-reactive materials and organic peroxides.
These are some important instructions to be followed for packaging dangerous goods. At DXL, we take utmost care while packing and transporting things to places. All our packaging materials are recognized and approved by authorities. Connect with us anytime.
