A driver is preparing to transport a hazardous material in an Intermediate Bulk Container (IBC). Which of the following is considered a bulk packaging, and therefore subject to bulk packaging regulations, including placarding, if applicable?
- AA container with a maximum capacity of 119 gallons.
- BA container with a maximum capacity of 100 gallons.
- CA container with a maximum capacity of 450 liters (119 gallons).
- DA container with a maximum capacity greater than 450 liters (119 gallons).
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. A container with a maximum capacity greater than 450 liters (119 gallons).
According to 49 CFR 171.8, 'bulk packaging' means a packaging, other than a vessel or a barge, including a transport vehicle or freight container, in which hazardous materials are loaded with no intermediate form of containment and which has a maximum capacity greater than 450 L (119 gallons) for liquids, a net mass greater than 400 kg (882 pounds) or a capacity greater than 450 L (119 gallons) for solids, or a water capacity greater than 454 kg (1,000 pounds) for gases.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This is exactly 119 gallons, which is the threshold. 'Greater than' 119 gallons is bulk.
- B. This is less than 119 gallons, so it's considered non-bulk for liquids.
- C. 450 liters is approximately 119 gallons. The definition requires 'greater than' 450 liters or 119 gallons.
Bulk Packaging Definition (Liquids)
For liquids, 'bulk packaging' refers to a container with a maximum capacity greater than 450 liters (119 gallons), where hazardous materials are loaded without intermediate containment.
- Capacity > 450 L (119 gallons) for liquids.
- Capacity > 450 L or net mass > 400 kg for solids.
- Water capacity > 454 kg for gases.
- Includes cargo tanks, portable tanks, IBCs, freight containers.
Memory trick: Think of the '119-gallon line': cross it, and your package becomes 'BULK,' triggering bigger rules.