Because different countries have different rules for shipping and storing materials, the United Nations created its own set of regulations with a universal system of classification, packaging, marking, and labeling for dangerous goods. As stated in the UN Model Regulations they were compiled to “be useful for those intending to apply the Model Regulations in legislation or those who need to explain the purpose of the Regulations or train others in their use to understand the rationale behind their drafting.” When these standards are met, a drum and its contents can safely and legally move to different parts of the world via air, road, rail and sea.
UN packaging should be used in strict accordance with all proper and approved specifications. This includes supplying users with all necessary test reports, as described in chapter 6.1 of the UN Model Regulations, and clear instructions for handling and closing a drum. Some of these tests include a drop test, hydrostatic pressure, stack and leakproof test for containers manufactured to hold liquids. All UN packaging will feature an easy to read and noticeable marking code on the container. While this code may seem confusing to someone unfamiliar with the characters, it relays all the necessary information about the drum: what the container is made of, class rating, and year of manufacture can all be deciphered from the code. (An explanation of the UN marking code can be found here.) Meeting all the UN standards guarantees a container will be able to move through any country that follows these regulations.
At Skolnik Industries, all UN packaging is manufactured and tested to withstand multi-modal transportation, this means that our UN drums are safe to be used for air, sea, road and rail travel when applicable. We offer sizes ranging from 3 to 110 gallons that are available in open or tight head models. The standards upheld by the UN regulations allow these containers to be used for hazardous materials while leaving the country. There are some customers, however, that require UN certified containers that have no intention of being sent out of country as UN certification is required domestically for any drum that moves on a public right-of-way. UN regulations set a standard for strength, stability, and safety that many find ideal.
For whatever reason you desire a UN certified package, make sure you check out Skolnik Industries and our wide variety of options, including 7A type, Salvage Drums, and carbon steel drums.