# Dangerous Goods Placard

*Last updated: 2026-06-26*

> Unlike the small hazard labels affixed to individual packages, dangerous goods placards are large-format, diamond-shaped warning signs mounted on the exterior of vehicles, tank containers, and freight containers.

Unlike the small hazard labels affixed to individual packages, dangerous goods placards are large-format, diamond-shaped warning signs mounted on the exterior of vehicles, tank containers, and freight containers. Each placard's colour, symbol, and numbers encode the hazard class—for example, orange panels for explosives, green for non-flammable gases—giving firefighters and emergency responders an instant risk assessment even from a distance. Placement, minimum dimensions, and visibility requirements are strictly governed by ADR (road), RID (rail), IMDG (sea), and IATA regulations (air), depending on the mode of transport. The placard communicates the hazard class; the UN number and proper shipping name are found only in the accompanying transport documents.

**Source:** [https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/hazmat/labels-placards](https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/hazmat/labels-placards)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Dangerous Goods Placard |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 106 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-26 |
| Source | https://www.phmsa.dot.gov/hazmat/labels-placards |

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