Dangerous goods are substances or articles that pose a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment. These goods are classified based on the type of hazard they pose, and this classification helps in determining the precautions necessary for handling, transporting, and storing them.
The United Nations has developed a globally recognized system of classification and labeling of dangerous goods, which is followed by most countries. The system classifies dangerous goods into nine classes based on the type of hazard they pose. The classes are as follows:
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Explosives: Substances or articles that are capable of producing an explosion or a pyrotechnic effect.
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Gases: Substances that are in a gaseous state at standard temperature and pressure, which can pose a danger when released.
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Flammable liquids: Liquids that have a flash point below 60°C and can ignite and burn easily.
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Flammable solids: Solids that are readily combustible or can cause or contribute to fire through friction or other means.
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Oxidizing substances and organic peroxides: Substances that can release oxygen and cause or contribute to the combustion of other materials.
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Toxic and infectious substances: Substances that can cause death or injury when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.
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Radioactive materials: Materials that emit radiation and can cause harm to human health or the environment.
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Corrosive substances: Substances that can cause severe damage to living tissue or other materials upon contact.
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Miscellaneous dangerous goods: Substances or articles that pose a danger but do not fit into any of the above categories.
It is essential to know the classification of dangerous goods to ensure their safe handling and transport. Appropriate measures can then be taken to minimize the risk of accidents and protect human health and the environment.