Marking of Hazardous Goods

All dangerous goods that are planning to transport by air must be marked according to the specific rules. According to these regulations, the proper shipping name for the dangerous goods shall be displayed on each package. In the case of unpackaged articles the marking shall be displayed on the article, on its cradle or on its handling, storage or launching device.

All package markings required should be readily visible and legible and must be able to withstand open weather exposure without a substantial reduction in effectiveness. They also shall be displayed on a background of contrasting colour on the external surface of the package; and shall not be located with other package markings that could substantially reduce their effectiveness.

Salvage packagings shall additionally be marked with the word “SALVAGE”. Intermediate bulk containers of more than 450 litres capacity and large packagings shall be marked on two opposing sides.

Special marking provisions for Class 7
1. It is required to mark each package legibly and durably on the outside of the packaging with an identification of either the consignor or consignee, or both.

2. In the case of excepted packages marking the proper shipping name is not required.

3. Each package of gross mass exceeding 50 kg shall have its permissible gross mass legibly and durably marked on the outside of the packaging.

4. Each package which conforms to a design approved by the competent authority shall be legibly and durably marked on the outside of the packaging with: (a) the identification mark allocated to that design by the competent authority; (b) a serial number to uniquely identify each packaging which conforms to that design; (c) in the case of a Type B(U) or Type B(M) package design, with “TYPE B(U)” or “TYPE B(M)”; and (d) in the case of a Type C package design, with “TYPE C”.

Orientation arrows
1. Orientation arrows are required to be marked on the package of the dangerous goods.
Two black or red arrows on white or suitable contrasting background. The rectangular border is optional.

The mark illustrated below must be displayed on the external surface of the outer packaging. This mark must be in the form of a square set at an angle of 450 (diamond-shaped). The mark must be at least 2” X 2” and include the UN number- UN3373. The proper shipping name “Diagnostic specimens” or “Clinical specimens” must be marked on the outer package adjacent to the diamond-shaped mark.

When packages are placed in an overpack, then the overpack must be marked with the word "OVERPACK” and the package markings must be reproduced on the outside of the overpack.

Markings and hazard labels for dry ice are required when sent by air. Marking of dangerous goods shall be in English.