CDL Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME)Communication RulesHard
A driver is transporting a bulk quantity of UN1005, Anhydrous Ammonia, Class 2.2, with a subsidiary hazard of Class 2.3 (Poison Inhalation Hazard). The material is in a cargo tank. In addition to the Class 2.2 placard and the identification number, what specific marking is required on the cargo tank for this material?
- AThe letters 'RQ' near the identification number.
- BThe words 'INHALATION HAZARD' on two opposing sides.
- CA Class 6.1 (Poison) placard.
- DThe words 'POISON GAS' on all four sides.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The words 'INHALATION HAZARD' on two opposing sides.
Anhydrous Ammonia (UN1005) is a known Poison Inhalation Hazard (PIH). For bulk packaging containing a PIH, the words 'INHALATION HAZARD' must be displayed on two opposing sides of the cargo tank, in addition to the placards and identification number.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The 'RQ' marking is for reportable quantities of hazardous substances, which is different from the PIH marking requirement.
- C. Anhydrous Ammonia is a Class 2.2 (non-flammable, non-poisonous gas) with a subsidiary PIH, not a Class 6.1 poison. The appropriate placard is Class 2.2.
- D. While it is a poison gas, the specific marking for a PIH in bulk is 'INHALATION HAZARD', not 'POISON GAS'.
Bulk PIH Vehicle Marking
Bulk packagings (e.g., cargo tanks, portable tanks) containing a Poison Inhalation Hazard (PIH) must be marked with the words 'INHALATION HAZARD' on two opposing sides.
- Applies to bulk quantities of PIH materials.
- Words must be 'INHALATION HAZARD'.
- Displayed on two opposing sides of the vehicle/container.
Memory trick: PIH in 'Bulk'? Make sure they 'Inhale the Hazard Warning'!