Dangerous Goods
What Are Dangerous Goods?
Put simply, dangerous goods are substances that may pose an immediate hazard to people, property, and/or the environment. They exist in almost all businesses, big and small, from warehousing and pharmaceutical to furniture makers and offices.
Dangerous goods can explode or burst into flame, be poisonous, corrosive, or have the capacity for sudden decomposition. Many common chemicals may seem harmless but can become deadly if not handled correctly.
Most workplaces use and store a variety of chemicals, which can lead to severe consequences if mishandled. Issues related to dangerous goods go beyond just occupational health and safety; they are legal responsibilities.
To ensure safe handling and storage, understand the properties of the chemicals you work with. For advice, contact a qualified independent professional.
There are nine classes of dangerous goods:
Class 1 is divided into six divisions, including Division 1.1 for substances and articles with a mass explosion hazard.
Class 2 includes compressed gases, liquefied gases, dissolved gases, and refrigerated liquefied gases.
Class 4 includes substances liable to spontaneous combustion or those which emit flammable gases upon contact with water.
OXIDIZING SUBSTANCES AND ORGANIC PEROXIDES
Class 5 is divided into two divisions for substances that can cause or enhance the combustion of other materials.
Class 6 includes substances liable to cause death or serious injury or harm to human health.
Class 7 includes materials containing radionuclides with specific activity concentrations and total activity levels.
Class 8 substances cause severe damage when in contact with living tissue or can damage materials.
MISCELLANEOUS DANGEROUS SUBSTANCES
Class 9 covers miscellaneous dangerous substances not covered by other classes.