Labels, placards, and panels of all sorts: wrong colors, incorrect measures or not used compliantly; non-suitable or not sufficiently performing materials; erroneous or incomplete design, and non-compliant lettering are some of the most common mistakes made by improvised producers.
Well, you never stop being amazed: we have just come across another case of “fantasy” panels, in this case (not) according to the IMDG manual.
A panel…that makes you want to scream!
On the IMDG Code, in chapter 5.2.1.1 it is written that on packages and IBCs “Unless provided otherwise, the proper shipping name for the dangerous goods contained within and the corresponding UN number, preceded by the letters “UN”, shall be displayed on each package.” When it goes about orange panels this direction is not indicated.
Displaying a UN number on the transport unit is not always requested by the IMDG code. Chapter 5.3.2.1.1 indicates all the applicable cases and the different displaying options (placards or orange panels). In chapter 5.3.2.1.2 it is also written that "the UN number shall be displayed in black digits not less than 65 mm high", but there’s no explicit request for this number to be preceded by the letters “UN”.
Hence, adding the letters “UN” before the UN number is useless, wrong, and above all not compliant. As we know, this can lead to unpleasant consequences such as blocked goods or hefty fines, which one should always avoid: authorities’ checks are becoming more and more frequent all over Europe.
It could seem like a minor or invisible mistake, but it is not: if you are buying 300*120 mm panels like the one shown in the picture, the moment has come to get into compliance and stop risking.
Here is why it is always better to rely on experts who know Codes and Regulations and produce in compliance with them.
Who, for instance? Serpac, of course!
Serpac is always up to date with all the norms updates and invests a relevant part of working time and human resources in studying and researching, along with checking production processes to guarantee compliance with the required design, dimension, and performance for its products.
SHIP SAFE, THINK SERPAC!