Finding someone to help with proper classification and packaging can be easier said than done. Liabilities for offering information have never been greater, and to this end, few in the haz-mat community are able to suggest the answers needed. Once a shipper concludes that contents have the potential of being hazardous — regardless of the quantity — one should begin researching compliance. Issues such as new product development, changes in the formulation, changes in the packaging, and mode(s) of transport can all effect compliance. The Dangerous Goods Advisory Council (www.dgac.org) does offer assistance with researching these issues, however, membership to the Council is required to benefit from all the services. The DOT also has a hotline for fielding these inquiries at (1-800-467-4922 or send your email inquiry to infocntr@rspa.dot.gov). If you still need additional assistance, your raw material venders should be able to offer classification information and hazards criteria that will be essential for package and shipping mode selection. Be cautious, violations for illegal or non-compliant shipments are severe.
Associations DOT/UN HazMat