Section 3 - Classification

Section 3 - Classification describes how to classify dangerous goods into one or more of nine UN hazard classes and, if applicable, one of three UN packing groups. The nine classes are determined by the type of hazard presented, while the packing groups relate to the applicable degree of danger within the class.

The nine hazard classes are:

• Class 1 - Explosives
• Class 2 - Gases
• Class 3 - Flammable Liquids
• Class 4 - Flammable Solids
• Class 5 - Oxidizing Substances and Organic Peroxides
• Class 6 - Toxic and Infectious Substances
• Class 7 - Radioactive Material
• Class 8 - Corrosives
• Class 9 - Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods

We will review each of these hazard classes in more detail later in the course.

Packing Groups

Dangerous goods are assigned to packing groups according to the degree of danger they present. The three packing groups are:

• Packing Group I: High Danger
• Packing Group II: Medium Danger
• Packing Group III: Low Danger

Note that provisions have been added to address any substance that may polymerize during normal conditions of transport, as well as the classification of these substances. The provisions for classification can be found in 3.4.1.4.

Shipper's Responsibilities Overview

The shipper is responsible for identifying and classifying all dangerous goods intended for air transport. Before packing any dangerous goods for transport, the shipper must:

• Identify all articles and substances that meet the dangerous goods criteria for consignment.
• Classify each item of dangerous goods by determining under which of the nine classes it falls.
• Assign each item of dangerous goods to one of the three packing groups, if applicable.

To learn more about IATA DGR visit our IATA DGR Refresher Online Training web page.