A driver is transporting a shipment that includes UN1993, Flammable liquids, N.O.S., Class 3, PG II, and UN1814, Potassium hydroxide solution, Class 8, PG II. Which of the following segregation requirements applies?
- AThese materials may not be loaded together in the same transport vehicle.
- BThese materials must be segregated by an incompatible material or a 24-inch air space.
- CThese materials must be loaded at opposite ends of the vehicle.
- DThese materials may be loaded together without segregation.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. These materials may not be loaded together in the same transport vehicle.
According to the Hazardous Materials Segregation Table (49 CFR 177.848), Class 3 (Flammable Liquids) and Class 8 (Corrosive Materials) are incompatible and may not be loaded together in the same transport vehicle if the Class 3 material has a flash point of 23 degrees C (73 degrees F) or lower, or if the Class 8 material is an acid. Flammable liquids (UN1993) generally have low flash points. Corrosive liquids (UN1814, Potassium hydroxide solution) are strong bases, which are highly reactive with acids and also flammable materials, creating a severe hazard. The segregation table indicates 'X' for Class 3 and Class 8, meaning they 'May not be loaded or stored together in the same transport vehicle or magazine.'
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Incorrect. This rule applies to certain other incompatible materials, but not to those marked 'X' on the segregation table.
- C. Incorrect. Loading at opposite ends is not sufficient for materials marked 'X' on the segregation table; they cannot be in the same vehicle at all.
- D. Incorrect. These materials are incompatible and pose a significant hazard if mixed; they require strict segregation.
Segregation of Flammable Liquids and Corrosives
Flammable liquids (Class 3) and corrosive materials (Class 8) are generally considered incompatible and must be segregated during transportation to prevent dangerous reactions.
- Refer to the Hazardous Materials Segregation Table (49 CFR 177.848).
- An 'X' at the intersection of two classes means 'May not be loaded or stored together in the same transport vehicle or magazine.'
- Mixing these classes can lead to fires, explosions, or release of toxic fumes.
- Specific conditions or types of packaging might allow exceptions, but generally they are forbidden together.
Memory trick: Segregation chart: 'X' marks the spot, where not to load, hot or not!