Hazmat training is the only way to know if exceptions apply when shipping hazardous materials in commerce. In the case of elevated temperature materials, to know the exceptions and the requirements, 49 CFR hazmat training by ground is a must. So let’s take a look at what the requirements of 49 CFR for ground transportation are.
In addition to the requirements in the Hazardous Material Regulations (HMR) for shipping hazardous materials, elevated temperature materials have some additional communication requirements (e.g., marks, placards, and documentation) that shippers must be aware of in order to offer shipments that are not only safe but compliant with the Hazardous Materials Regulations as well.
For starters let us take a look at the definition of elevated temperature materials per 49 CFR 171.8.
Elevated Temperature Materials
Elevated temperature material is a material which, when offered for transportation or transported in a bulk packaging by ground:
- Is in a liquid phase and at a temperature at or above 100 °C (212 °F)
- Is in a liquid phase with a flash point at or above 38 °C (100 °F) that is intentionally heated and offered for transportation or transported at or above its flash point or
- Is in a solid phase and at a temperature at or above 240 °C (464 °F).
First, it is important to note the use of the term “bulk packaging”. Elevated temperature materials are only considered as such when in bulk packaging. If a shipper had the same material in non-bulk packaging, it would not meet the description requirements.
As we can see by the definition, the materials shipping temperature as well as the flashpoint are other key factors that the shipper must consider for proper classification and identification.
There are 3 entries in the HMR specifically using the term “Elevated temperature.” They include:
- UN 3256 Elevated temperature liquid,flammable n.o.s., Class 3, PG III
- UN 3257 Elevated temperature liquid, n.o.s. Class 9, PG III
- UN3258 Elevated temperature solid, n.o.s., Class 9, PG III
Bear in mind that these are not the only proper shipping names that can meet the definition of elevated temperature materials. For example, proper shipping names containing the word “molten” are included, as well as different materials and hazard classes provided they meet the criteria outlined in the above definition.
Some common examples of elevated temperature materials include asphalt, roofing tar, road oils, and sulphur. Other materials such as metals, molten aluminum, molten glass, and molten metal salts are shipped hot from the manufacturing site to conserve the sizable energy costs for reheating them by the user in their processing application.
Additional Communication Requirements
Let us take a look at some of the additional communication requirements for elevated temperature materials starting with those involving marking and placarding.
A bulk packaging of 1000 gallons or more is required to be placarded and marked with the 4 digit identification number on all four sides as per 49 CFR 172.302 (general marking requirements for bulk packagings) and 172.504 (general placarding requirements). A bulk package with a capacity under 1000 gallons may be placarded and marked with the 4 digit identification number on two opposing sides.
In addition, substances meeting the requirements for elevated temperature materials must be marked with the word “HOT.” This can be incorporated in the upper portion of the 4 digit identification marking (see 49 CFR 172.325) or on its own separate marking.
While not a placard per se, the “HOT” marking would be the same size as a regular placard. Also, bulk packagings containing molten aluminum or molten Sulphur must bear the markings “MOLTEN ALUMINUM” or “MOLTEN SULPHUR” in place of the “HOT” marking per 49 CFR 172.325(b).
Lastly, when described on a shipping paper (per 49 CFR 172.203(n)) the word “HOT” must precede the proper shipping name. This requirement does not apply if the material includes the word(s) “molten” or “elevated temperature” in its proper shipping name.
49 CFR Ground Hazmat Training With Hazmat University
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