A driver is transporting a shipment of UN1002, Air, Compressed (Class 2.2), and UN1790, Hydrofluoric acid solution (Class 8, PG II). The shipping papers list both materials. Which of the following statements about the segregation of these materials is TRUE?
- AThese materials must be segregated because compressed air is an oxidizer and will react with acids.
- BThese materials must be segregated due to the corrosive nature of hydrofluoric acid and the pressure of compressed air.
- CThese materials do not require segregation from each other under hazmat regulations.
- DSegregation is required because compressed air can act as a catalyst for acid reactions.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. These materials do not require segregation from each other under hazmat regulations.
Segregation requirements are based on the hazard classes of the materials and their potential for dangerous reactions. Compressed air (Class 2.2) is a non-flammable, non-poisonous gas. Hydrofluoric acid solution (Class 8) is a corrosive. According to the segregation table (e.g., in 49 CFR 177.848), Class 2.2 (non-flammable gas) does not require segregation from Class 8 (corrosive material).
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Compressed air (Class 2.2) is not an oxidizer; oxidizing gases are Class 2.2 with an oxidizer subsidiary risk or Class 5.1.
- B. While both properties exist, they do not inherently make these two specific classes incompatible for transport segregation.
- D. Compressed air is not typically considered a catalyst for acid reactions in a transport scenario requiring segregation.
Segregation of Non-Flammable Gas and Corrosive
Certain hazardous materials, like non-flammable, non-poisonous gases (Class 2.2) and corrosive materials (Class 8), do not require segregation from each other during transport.
- Segregation prevents dangerous reactions between incompatible materials.
- Class 2.2 includes gases like compressed air, nitrogen, helium.
- Class 8 includes acids and bases.
- The segregation table (49 CFR 177.848) dictates compatibility.
Memory trick: Incompatibility is key, check the segregation table to prevent disaster.