Why do you need to label shipping containers carrying Dangerous Goods?

Dangerous Good Labels
Fig. (i) 9 Classes of Dangerous Goods
Dangerous Good (also known DG or hazardous material or HAZMAT) is any substance or material capable of posing an unreasonable risk to health, safety, and property when transported in commerce. There are various reasons why proper Labelling of shipping containers are essential for carrying Dangerous Goods (DG). They are as follows:
  1. Safety: To keep ocean transportation safe and economical, containers carrying DG, must be labelled. DG such as flammable liquids, corrosive substances, explosives, radioactive materials, or toxic chemicals needs to be carefully handled when carried with other types of cargo. Any lacuna in the process have high chance of creating an on-water disaster. In order to avoid such undesired horrible circumstances, proper labelling is an imperative to ensure the safe movements of goods. Labelling ensures safety of the marine logistics and thus reduce risks of a supply chain.
  2. Emergency response: In the event of an accident, fire, or spillage involving DG, labelling plays a crucial role. The signage helps responding to an emergency. The labels on the shipping containers provide valuable information to emergency personnel, allowing them to quickly identify the type of dangerous goods involved and take appropriate measures to manage and prevent from a disaster to happen.
  3. Regulatory compliance: Regulations are for public and environmental safety. Regulatory bodies like International Maritime Organisation (IMO) comes up with regulatory framework from time to time in order to prevent environmental and public hazards. International trade is subject to compliances and mandates of such international organisations. Proper labelling is a legal requirement to comply with these regulations. It helps authorities, port officials, and inspectors easily identify and verify that the containers are carrying the appropriate DG and that they meet the necessary packaging, handling, and transportation requirements.
  4. Transportation efficiency: Labelling shipping containers carrying DG aids in the efficient logistics and supply chain processes. By clearly indicating the nature of the cargo, it allows shipping companies, freight forwarders, and port operators to segregate, store, and handle dangerous goods appropriately. This helps prevent cross-contamination, ensures proper storage conditions, and facilitates the smooth flow of goods through the transportation network.

In summary, labelling shipping containers carrying DG is a critical practice that enhances safety, enables effective emergency response, ensures regulatory compliance, and promotes efficient transportation and logistics management.

Connect with Us

© Om Saptarshi International Service (P) Ltd. | All rights reserved.