Packaging exceptions

Scope

All packagings of hazardous materials, regardless of the mode of transportation, must be packaged as specified in Part 173, unless exceptions are authorized.

Regulatory citations

• 49 CFR 173.150 — Exceptions for Class 3 (flammable and combustible liquids)
• 49 CFR 173.3 — Packaging and exceptions
• 49 CFR 173.306 — Limited quantities of compressed gases
• 49 CFR 173.4 — Small quantities for highway and rail

Key definitions

• Limited quantity: The maximum amount of a hazardous material for which there is a specific labeling or packaging exception.
• Outer packaging: The outermost enclosure of a composite or combination packaging together with any absorbent materials, cushioning and any other components necessary to contain and protect inner receptacles or inner packagings.
• Package: A packaging plus its contents.
• Packaging: A receptacle and any other components or materials necessary for the receptacle to perform its containment function in conformance with the minimum packing requirements.

Summary of requirements

Some exceptions to the packing specified in Part 173 include:

• Small quantities of Class 3, Division 4.1, Division 5.1, Division 5.2, Class 8, Division 6.1 materials, Class 9 materials, and Class 7 materials — to the extent allowed in 173.4.
• Certain limited quanities are excepted from the specification packaging requirements in Part 173. Limited quantity exceptions are found in 173.150 (Class 3), 173.151 (Division 4.1), 173.152 (Class 5), 173.153 (Division 6.1), 173.154 (Class 8), 173.155 (Class 9), and 173.306 (Class 2).
• "Salvage drums" for use in transporting damaged, defective or leaking packages for repackaging or disposal. Such drums must be a UN 1A2 (removable head steel drum), UN 1B2 (removable head aluminum drum), UN 1N2 (removable head metal drum other than steel or aluminum), or a UN 1H2 (removable head plastic drum) tested and marked for PG III or higher for liquids or solids and leakproofness tested at 20 kPa (3psi). 173.3

See Salvage Drum for more information on this topic.