The classification system Class 1 Class 2 Class 3 Class 4 Class 5 Class 6 Class 7 Class 8 Class 9

Australia uses a system of labelling for dangerous goods based on the United Nations system. This system helps you to quickly recognize dangerous goods, their chemical and physical properties and dangers associated with dealing with them.

Dangerous goods are divided into classes based on the hazards they pose. All packages and containers, shipping containers, trucks, trains and tankers which carry dangerous goods must carry the correct "Class Label" in the form of a diamond shaped sign. This diamond sign shows the nature of the hazard posed by the dangerous substance by colour, symbol and the class of the goods by number.

The classification system
The Australia labelling system has nine classes of dangerous goods with subsections according to the type of hazard applicable. Multiple signs may sometimes be required with mixed loads or certain types of chemicals.

This is not meant as a comprehensive treatment of this subject, links to the HAZCHEM website are provided for more information. This is solely to help you with the identification of class labels and what they tell us about the type of material being transported.

Sign	Class	Classification	Example
	1	Explosives	TNT and fireworks

As the classification indicates, these materials are capable of exploding. Although modern explosives are relatively safe when handled by trained professionals, old explosives, detonators or fuses can be very dangerous if tampered with.

Compressed gases are under pressure and hence could leak from a broken container, or explode if the container were in a fire. Listed below are the three categories of compressed gases, each with their own properties.

2.1

Flammable gases

LPG, propane

Flammable gases will burn if they come in contact with a naked flame and may explode if heated.

2.2

non-flammable/ non-toxic

nitrogen, helium

These gases will not burn and although they will be very cold do not pose a toxic risk if they escape their container.

2.3

poisonous gases

carbon monoxide

Poisonous gases, may or may not be flammable, their toxicity is their most dangerous property.

3

Flammable liquids

petrol, diesel fuel

Probably the most common dangerous substances transported on our roads, flammable liquids can present a real danger if leaking from a tank or if exposed to a naked flame. Most flammable liquids will also be toxic.

Flammable solids vary greatly in their properties when they come in contact with air or water. Most flammable solids will also produce toxic gases as products of their burning.

4.1

Flammable solids

matches

These solids require a naked flame or heat to burn.

4.2

Spontaneously flammable

white phosphorus

These solids will burn on contact with air.

4.3

Flammable when wet

calcium carbide

These solids burn on contact with water or moisture.

Oxidizing agents and organic peroxides are substances which supply oxygen or halogens for reaction with other chemicals. When mixed with other chemicals, especially flammable chemicals, violent and explosive reactions can occur. They are both corrosive and toxic.

	5.1	Oxidizing agents	hydrogen peroxide
	5.2	Organic peroxides

The main attribute of these substances is their poisonous, toxic or infectious nature.

6.1(a)

Poisonous substances

cyanide, arsenic

Harmful or deadly to touch, taste or inhalation.

6.1(b)

Harmful substances

calcium compounds

May be harmful to touch, taste or inhalation.

6.2

Infectious substances

vaccines

Biologically active bacteria, viruses, vaccines and contaminated materials.

7

Radioactive substances

uranium

Usually transported in unbreakable lead lined containers, small amounts of radioactive materials are used for nuclear medicine. They are safe while in their container.

8

Corrosive substances

sulphuric acid, alkalise

Corrosive substances will "chemically burn" on contact with skin or eyes, their fumes are particularly dangerous if inhaled.

9

Miscellaneous dangerous goods

dry ice, liquid nitrogen

These substances do not fit into the eight classifications already used. Dry ice is dangerous to touch because of its extreme coldness and ability to freeze skin.

Copyright owned by the State of Victoria (Department of Education and Early Childhood Development). Used with Permission.