Label Specifications

All warning labels must meet defined specifications to ensure that they are easily recognizable.

Hazard Class

For Classes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8, the text indicating a hazard, such as Flammable Liquid or Oxidizer, is not required on a primary or subsidiary label.

Visibility and Placement

Labels must be clearly visible and may not be obscured by other markings or attachments. Labels must be affixed to a surface of the package or containment device containing the hazardous material, or printed directly on the package surface. Place the label on the same surface as the proper shipping name, and in close proximity. If the surface of the package is too small, too irregular, or a cylinder for compressed gases, the label may be displayed on a tag attached to the package. However, tags must not be used for a Class 7 radioactive material.

When primary and subsidiary hazard labels are required, they must be displayed next to each other. Placement conforms to this requirement if labels are within 150 mm (6 inches) of one another.

Duplicate Labeling

Generally, only one of each different required label must be displayed on a package. However, duplicate labels must be displayed on at least two sides or two ends (other than the bottom) of the following:

• Each package or overpack having a volume of 1.8 m³ (64 cubic feet) or more
• Each non-bulk package containing a radioactive material
• Each DOT 106 or 110 multi-unit car tank
• Each portable tank of less than 3,785 L (1000 gallons) capacity
• Each freight container or aircraft unit load device having a volume of 1.8 m³ (64 cubic feet) or more, but less than 18 m³ (640 cubic feet)
• An IBC having a volume of 1.8 m³ (64 cubic feet) or more

Durability

Each label, whether printed on or affixed to a package, must be durable and weather resistant. It must be able to withstand deterioration or a substantial change in color over a 30-day exposure to conditions that might be reasonably expected during transportation.

Design

Each label must be printed on or affixed to a background of contrasting color, or must have a dotted or solid line outer border.

Each diamond (square-on-point) hazard label must be at least 100 mm (3.9 inches) on each side with each side having a solid line inner border 5.0 to 6.3 mm (0.2 to 0.25 inches) from the edge.

The Cargo Aircraft Only label must be a rectangle measuring at least 110 mm (4.3 inches) in height by 120 mm (4.7 inches) in width. The words "Cargo Aircraft Only" must be shown in letters measuring at least 6.3 mm (0.25 inches) in height.

Form Identification

A label may contain form identification information, such as the name of the maker, provided that the information is printed outside the solid line inner border in type no larger than 10-point.

To learn more about DOT HAZMAT Awareness visit our DOT HAZMAT General Awareness Online Training web page.