UN number
UN numbers (United Nations numbers) are four-digit numbers that identify hazardous substances and articles (such as explosives, flammable liquids, toxic substances, etc.) in the framework of international transport. They are assigned by the United Nations Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods and are used worldwide to ensure the safe and efficient transport of hazardous materials.
Overview[edit | edit source]
UN numbers are part of a system that classifies hazardous materials for transport. This system is used by various international regulations, including the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code), the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations, and the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR).
Each UN number is associated with a specific substance or group of substances that share similar properties and hazards. For example, UN1203 is assigned to gasoline, while UN1993 is used for flammable liquids, n.o.s. (not otherwise specified).
Structure[edit | edit source]
UN numbers are always four digits long and are usually prefixed with the letters "UN". They range from UN0001 to UN3500, with new numbers being added as needed. The numbers are assigned based on the type of hazard the substance presents, such as flammability, toxicity, or reactivity.
Usage[edit | edit source]
UN numbers are used on shipping documents, packaging, and labels to identify the hazardous material being transported. They are crucial for emergency responders, who rely on these numbers to quickly understand the nature of the hazard and take appropriate action in case of an accident or spill.
For example, a container labeled with UN1203 indicates that it contains gasoline, a flammable liquid. This information helps emergency personnel assess the risk and determine the best course of action to mitigate any potential danger.
Classification[edit | edit source]
The classification of substances with UN numbers is based on the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS). This system categorizes substances into different classes and divisions based on their primary hazard. The main classes include:
- Class 1: Explosives
- Class 2: Gases
- Class 3: Flammable liquids
- Class 4: Flammable solids
- Class 5: Oxidizing substances and organic peroxides
- Class 6: Toxic and infectious substances
- Class 7: Radioactive material
- Class 8: Corrosive substances
- Class 9: Miscellaneous dangerous substances and articles
Also see[edit | edit source]
- Hazardous materials
- Material Safety Data Sheet
- Dangerous goods
- Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals
- International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code
Template:Transport of dangerous goods
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD