GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 22, 2026
Hazard class
Forwarders, shippers, and regulatory authorities use hazard classes to systematically categorise dangerous goods by their primary hazardous property and apply the appropriate safety measures accordingly.
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Source: https://unece.org/transport/dangerous-goods
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Definition & Explanation
Forwarders, shippers, and regulatory authorities use hazard classes to systematically categorise dangerous goods by their primary hazardous property and apply the appropriate safety measures accordingly. Classification follows the relevant international ruleset for each mode: ADR for road, RID for rail, the IMDG Code for sea, and IATA DGR for air. Classes include, among others, explosives, flammable liquids, toxic substances, radioactive materials, and corrosive substances; each class triggers specific requirements for packaging, labelling, transport documents, and emergency procedures. A substance may not legally be carried as dangerous goods without a confirmed class assignment. Unlike the UN number, which identifies a specific substance or group of substances, the hazard class describes the nature of the risk – a substance may fall under more than one class, with one designated as the primary hazard.
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