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Internal packaging for dangerous goods: how to choose them

Written by Serpac | May 17, 2018 12:30:00 PM

Shipping fragile items is often associated with precious objects, such as a porcelain service or a set of cups. In fact, there are many other products which are better not being altered during the journey from the sender to the recipient: we are talking about dangerous substances.

In this regard, when planning to ship in accordance with the law, it is also necessary to provide suitable internal packaging for dangerous goods.

 

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Different solutions for different materials

The market for this type of product is vast, as there is not just one category of dangerous goods. Various aspects should therefore be considered. In short, the nature of a substance determines what measures that need to be adhered to when shipping, just as one must do when opting for different packagings depending on the type of shipment chosen.

What to know about internal packaging for dangerous goods

Once you have established what the ideal solution is for your specific case, all that is left to do is find out about the correct procedure you must follow. Sending dangerous goods is certainly not a process that can be done quietly at the local post office. In the same vein, think about how many times it happens that you need to ask the desk clerk for clarifications, so as to follow the correct procedures. When talking about special shipments, the importance of knowing in detail how to act is even more understandable. For each individual case, it is necessary to consult the right text that shows the right procedure when dealing with internal packagings for dangerous goods.

It is necessary to know whether to purchase vermiculite, rather than polyethylene containment bags. The first in fact, is a material more suitable for the transport of liquids; the second is better as an anti-shock, to protect internal containers. There are various options for transporting liquids. For example, which is more suitable: an absorbent roll cloth or an absorbing cloth in a dispenser? Do the dangerous goods need to not only remain intact, but also be kept at a certain temperature? The right product could then be an isothermal container used in combination with specific refrigerating products such as gels for controlled temperature shipments or dry ice (UN1845 Dry Ice).

Internal packagings on the market

One factor that determines the choice of one type of packaging compared to another is the type of goods that need to be shipped. In general, for the shipment of liquid or solid dangerous goods, various types of internal containers can be used. For example, if you need to pack Category A infectious Materials (understood as all those materials containing pathogens that can cause serious harm to both human and animal health), the ideal solution would be to use packaging that complies with the conditions stated in the corresponding regulations (P620 ADR, RID, ADN, IMDG and PI620 IATA), for example Serpac packaging BIO-3000-SB. This is made up of an approved external packaging and a secondary packaging, such as a 95kPa sealed plastic container (from -40 to + 55 ° C). The combination of these 2 components allows the safe and compliant shipment of the goods.

On the other hand, with treated biological materials, it is possible to purchase both combined packaging (i.e complete with secondary plastic packaging, cardboard interpositions, absorbent tube holders and other components of this kind) and secondary packagings, such as plastic cans or bags which must remain sealed at 95kPa and from -40 to + 55 ° C (except in specific circumstances). As defined by the packing instructions P650 ADR, RID, ADN, IMDG and P.I.650 IATA, in order to be able to ship category B biological materials, the packaging (the secondary contained in the outer packaging) must have passed certain tests.

Packaging for dangerous goods: a world to discover

Since these are potentially lethal goods, one cannot take their handling and transport lightly. It is always a good idea to keep up to date of the requirements and regulations, as well as making sure that the packaging for the dangerous goods is UN certified , except in specific circumstances, and can actually be used in combination with your goods or your inner packaging. There is also the option of buying combined packaging kits (including internal packaging with approved external packaging), allowing the correct shipment of your dangerous goods. In this way you will be sure to comply with all the regulations and not run the risk of incurring fines.