Cargo transportation involves a myriad of products, some of which are classified as “Dangerous Goods.” Understanding these classes is crucial for ensuring safe and secure transport. Let’s delve into these categories:
Class 1: Explosives (Divisions: 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6)
Explosives can cause a sudden release of gas, heat, and pressure. From fireworks (1.4) to dynamite (1.1), this class encompasses a wide range of materials.
Class 2: Gases (Divisions: 2.1, 2.2, 2.3)
Gases compressed for storage or transport, including flammable gases (2.1), non-flammable gases (2.2), and toxic gases (2.3), each carry unique risks.
Class 3: Flammable Liquid and Combustible Liquid
Class 3 includes liquids that are prone to catch fire or support combustion, such as gasoline, alcohol, and acetone.
Class 4: Flammable Solid, Spontaneously Combustible, and Dangerous When Wet (Divisions 4.1, 4.2, 4.3)
Materials in this class ignite readily and can sustain combustion. Some substances can spontaneously combust when exposed to air (4.2), while others react dangerously with water (4.3).
Class 5: Oxidizer and Organic Peroxide (Divisions 5.1, 5.2)
Oxidizers boost combustion in other materials. Organic peroxides can be unstable and explosive, falling under this classification.
Class 6: Poison (Toxic) and Poison Inhalation Hazard
Class 6 covers substances that can be harmful when inhaled, swallowed, or contact skin, ranging from toxic materials to those posing inhalation hazards.
Class 7: Radioactive
Radioactive materials emit ionizing radiation and require specialized handling and storage.
Class 8: Corrosive
Corrosive materials are highly reactive and can cause severe damage to living tissue and objects. They include strong acids and bases.
Class 9: Miscellaneous
Class 9 encompasses hazardous materials that don’t fit into other categories but still pose risks during transport, like environmentally hazardous substances and specific battery types.
At TT Meridian, we prioritize safety in transporting dangerous goods from all classes. Each class has specific packaging, labelling, and handling requirements to ensure that your cargo reaches its destination without incident. Your cargo’s safety is our top priority.
