What Is a UN Number?
A UN number is a four-digit code used to identify hazardous substances during transport. These codes are part of international regulations to ensure safety and consistency when shipping dangerous goods by ground, air, or sea.
Understanding UN Codes for Solids
UN markings on containers for solid dangerous goods provide key safety and compliance information. Here's how to decode them:
Component | Description |
| Packaging Code | Indicates the type of container (e.g., 4G - Fiberboard box) |
| Packaging Group | Reflects the level of hazard: - X = High (Group I) - Y = Medium (Group II) - Z = Low (Group III) |
| Maximum Gross Mass (kg) | The total weight the container can safely hold |
| Solids/Inner Packaging Approval | Confirms suitability for solids or inner packaging |
| Year of Manufacture | When the container was made |
| Country Code | Country that authorized the packaging (e.g., CDA = Canada) |
| Manufacturer ID Code | Unique Identifier for the manufacturer |
| Authorization Number | Issued by the country where the container was tested |
Visual Example: This means a fiberboard box (4G), approved for high-hazard solids (X), with a max gross mass of 15 kg, manufactured in 2009 in Canada.
Understanding UN Codes for Liquids
Containers for liquid dangerous goods include additional information specific to fluid properties:
Component | Description |
| Packaging Code | Indicates the type of container (e.g., 1A1 = Steel drum with non-removable head) |
| Packaging Group | Hazard level: X (I), Y(II), Z(III) |
| Maximum Relative Density | The density of the liquid compared to water |
| Hydraulic Test Pressure (kPa) | Pressure the container can withstand during testing |
| Year of Manufacture | When the container was made |
| Country Code | Country that authorized the packaging |
| Manufacturer ID Code | Unique identifier for the manufacturer |
| Authorization Number | Issued by the country where the container was tested |
Visual Example: This means a steel drum (1A1), approved for medium-hazard liquids (Y), with a relative density of 1.4, tested at 150 kPa, manufactured in 2009 in Canada.
What Makes a Container “UN Standardized”?
A container is considered UN standardized if:
- It displays the UN certification safety mark
- It meets the standards of the Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB) or
- If manufactured outside Canada, it complies with UN Recommendations and the regulations of the country of origin
Tips for TDG Compliance
- Always check the UN mark before transporting dangerous goods.
- Match the packaging group to the hazard level of the substance.
- Ensure containers are tested and authorized by the appropriate country.
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