PART 6: CONSTRUCTION AND TESTING OF PACKAGINGS, IBCs, LARGE PACKAGINGS, PORTABLE TANKS, MEGCs AND ROAD TANK VEHICLES
Part 6 ensures that all containment systems used for dangerous goods maintain integrity during transport.
The goal is to prevent leaks, ruptures, contamination, fire escalation, and radiation exposure by enforcing design, inspection, and testing standards before and during usage.
Chapter 6.1 – Construction and Testing of Packagings
This chapter covers standard packagings such as boxes, drums, jerricans, and bags.
Key requirements:
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Use of approved construction materials compatible with cargo
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UN testing for mechanical strength: drop, stacking, pressure, vibration tests
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Marking rules to display packaging type, year of manufacture, manufacturer code
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Performance-linked certification for specific packing groups (I, II, III)
Training objective:
Learners must understand how packaging design prevents leaks and absorbs mechanical stress during handling and sea transport.
Chapter 6.2 – Pressure Receptacles, Aerosols, Gas Cartridges & Fuel Cell Cartridges
This chapter covers containers that hold gas under pressure, which present high energy and rupture hazards.
Key features:
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Cylinders, aerosol cans, small gas cartridges
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Wall thickness, valve design, burst pressure limits
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Periodic inspection cycles
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Leakproofness and resistance to corrosion
Training objective:
Personnel must recognize pressure receptacle markings and ensure equipment is certified before filling or loading.
Chapter 6.3 – Packagings for Class 6.2 Infectious Substances Category A
Category A infectious materials can cause severe or fatal disease.
Requirements:
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Triple packaging system (primary receptacle, leakproof secondary, strong outer)
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Impact and pressure resistance testing
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Leakproof seals to prevent biological contamination
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Resistance to extreme temperatures during air or sea transport
Training objective:
Ensure correct containment to prevent human or environmental exposure from microbiological hazards.
Chapter 6.4 – Radioactive Material Packages & Approval
Radioactive material demands shielding and strict regulatory control.
Standards include:
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Package types (Type A, Type B, Type C)
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Radiation leakage limits
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Drop, puncture, fire and water immersion tests
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Competent authority approval for high-risk packages
Training objective:
Recognize that radioactive packaging safety is not negotiable—failure can expose humans to invisible, long-lasting hazards.
Chapter 6.5 – Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs)
IBCs are used for large quantities of liquids and solids, providing efficiency and reusability.
Requirements:
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Construction from plastic, metal, composite materials
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UN certification testing
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Resistance to chemicals and impact
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Periodic inspection and repair criteria
Training objective:
Learn how IBC design ensures safe handling using forklifts & cranes, and reduces spill risk.
Chapter 6.6 – Large Packagings
Used for oversized or heavy dangerous goods transported in bulk-like form.
Features:
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Capacity > 400 kg
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Structural integrity testing
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Reusable design with maintenance standards
Training objective:
Understand when large packagings are chosen over multiple small packages for logistical efficiency.
Chapter 6.7 – Portable Tanks & MEGCs
Portable tanks and MEGCs carry large volumes of liquids or compressed gases.
Critical elements:
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Design codes (T-codes) linked to hazard characteristics
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Pressure relief systems to prevent explosions
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Shell thickness & corrosion control
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Inspection intervals for structural verification
Training objective:
Tank safety prevents catastrophic failures such as BLEVE (Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion).
Chapter 6.8 – Road Tank Vehicles & Road Gas Element Vehicles
These tank systems move DG over land, providing continuity between ship and inland logistics.
Uses:
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Transport of flammable liquids, corrosives, liquefied gases
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Compatibility of design with road standards
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Pressure control & emergency valves
Training objective:
Recognize that road tank vehicles entering ports must meet equivalent safety as shipping equipment.
Chapter 6.9 – Bulk Containers (Design & Testing)
Bulk containers carry solid dangerous goods in loose form.
Requirements:
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Rigid bulk containers, ventilated or closed types
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Leak tightness testing
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Resistance to tearing or collapse
Training objective:
Bulk container failure can release dust clouds or reactive solids—construction reliability is essential.
Chapter 6.10 – FRP (Fiber-Reinforced Plastic) Portable Tanks
Used where corrosion resistance is needed (e.g., acids).
Key requirements:
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Material testing for heat, UV, chemical resistance
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Shell strength & fatigue testing
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Inspection to detect fiber delamination
Training objective:
Learners must understand advantages and limitations of FRP for corrosive cargo.