UN approval for packaging has one purpose: safety.
UN-packaging regulations ensure that hazardous goods are stored, handled, and transported safely. The regulations are mandatory for legal compliance, so they must be adhered to whenever chemicals, pharmaceuticals, or other hazardous goods are packaged.
What Does UN Approved Packaging Mean?
UN approval means that packaging has been tested and certified for use with hazardous products. The tests are designed to ensure the packaging remains intact and contained, even when subjected to harsh conditions.
There are five key tests that the packaging must pass:
Leakproofness
This is tested by submerging the container in water for 5 minutes. If air bubbles escape, the container is not airtight and has failed the test.
Stacking Strength
Stacking strength is important to ensure that a container is suitable for bulk storage. Typically, this means it must support the weight of a stack that is 3 meters high for 24 hours without breaking.
Stacking strength is important for storage safety.
The Drop Test
Drop test heights vary according to the packaging code. Packaging must survive a drop of 1.8m without leaking for the highest certification code.
Vibration
The vibration test is designed to replicate the effects of transportation. It involves shaking the container and measuring the noise in decibels. Too many decibels mean the container does not have the necessary product integrity.
Compression
This is also known as a Hydrostatic Pressure Test. It ensures the packaging can withstand pressure changes during air transport without leaking for 5 minutes.
These tests ensure that the container used for a particular product is fit for purpose. This is particularly important when shipping hazardous goods since any leakage could harm humans and the environment.
The UN Headquarters in New York.
A set of global standards is essential for safe shipping across international borders. The United Nations, with 193 member states, has a global reach and is well-placed to determine and enforce the necessary safety standards.
Under the UN umbrella, each country has its own regulatory body responsible for the day-to-day administration of UN certification. The VCA (Vehicle Certification Agency) oversees UN packaging numbers, testing, and issuing certificates in the UK.
Understanding UN Packaging Codes And Symbols
Each group of letters and numbers that make up a UN packaging code identify a different aspect of the packaging. The code includes valuable information about the manufacturer, packaging tests and packaging use. The details include:
- Type of package
- Material
- Packaging Group
- Maximum gross mass
- Solida or inner packaging
- Year of manufacture
- Location of manufacturer
- Manufacturer code
- Category
- Specific gravity
- Hydraulic Test pressure
Understanding a UN packaging code helps ensure packaging is used for its intended purpose. UN codes also allow traceability; any packaging failures or quality issues can be traced back to the source.
Type Of Package
The first number in the code denotes the type of packaging. Packaging is divided into six categories:
(1) Drums: These are typically used for liquids and powders. This category includes steel drums (1A1 steel drum non-removable head), plastic drums (1H1 plastic drum non-removable head), and plywood drums (1D).
(2) Barrels: This category covers wooden barrels (2C1 wooden barrel non-removable head). They are used for larger volumes of liquids and powders.
(3) Jerry Cans: This category covers steel (3A1 and 3A2), aluminium (3B1 and 3B2), and plastic (3H1 and 3H2). Jerry cans are practical packaging solutions for liquids, and their stackable designs are ideal for space-efficient shipping and storage.
(4) Boxes: This is a broad category that includes steel boxes (4A), plywood boxes (4D), and plastic boxes (4H2). They all share the property of being rigid packaging that provides a high degree of protection.
(5) Bags: Category 5 includes all types of bags, including film plastic bags (5H4), multi-wall paper bags (5M1) and textile bags (5L1, 5L2 and 5L3)
(6) Composite Packaging: This is the largest category because it covers a diverse range of multiple-material packaging, including glass, porcelain, or stoneware receptacles in steel drums (6PA1).
These item-specific product codes mean the right type of container can be easily identified and used correctly for each hazardous product.
Materials Used In UN Approved Packaging
The material a container is made from is a key component of UN approval. Each material has a designated letter, which makes it easy to identify.
- Steel (A) – Steel containers are ideal for UN approved packaging because they are durable and have a high puncture resistance. Steel drums are used for flammable products such as petroleum oil.
- Aluminium (B) – Aluminium is a light and corrosive-resistant metal, making it ideal for storing chemical compounds, essences, and additives.
- Plastic (H) – Plastic is light and waterproof. UN approved jerry cans are typically used for shipping oils and liquids.
- Metals Other Than Steel Or Aluminium (N) – Category N is reserved for containers made from other metals, which can be useful when unique properties are necessary for certain hazardous materials.
- Glass, Porcelain Or Stoneware (P) – Although this type of packaging is fragile, it is non-reactive, making it the right choice for volatile products.
The Importance Of Closures For UN Approval
Caps and closures are a point of vulnerability for packaging, which is why they are included in UN certification. Lidded containers must be tested and approved with a specified closure, and UN approval is granted on this basis.
Aluminium bottles must use a plug and a screw lid to be UN certified, and drums and metal pails use a ring-latch closure. These measures are all designed to ensure closures remain secure in transit.
UN Certified closures for Tournaire's aluminium bottles
Decoding Packaging Group Codes For Risk Levels
Packaging group codes identify the risk level a container is suitable for. There is a scale of danger regarding UN certified packaging - from high risk to low risk.
Packaging Group 1 (X) - High-Risk, Dangerous Goods
Unsurprisingly, this code is reserved for the strongest packaging. Containers given an ‘X rating’ must pass a drop test from 1.8m. This type of packaging is used for the most dangerous substances, such as cyanide, toxic chemicals and explosives.
Packaging Group 2 (Y) - Moderate-Risk Hazardous Goods
Y-rated packaging must pass a drop test from 1.2m. These containers are used for hazardous goods such as corrosive substances and flammable liquids.
Packaging Group 3 (Z) - Low-Risk Hazardous Goods
Z-rated packaging has passed a drop test from 0.8m. This type of packaging can store goods such as flammable fluids or batteries.
Small quantities of hazardous goods may be shipped in non-certified packaging. These are classified as Limited Quantities (LQs). Specific weights and measures for LQs vary according to the goods ships and method of transport. Smaller quantities apply when transporting by air than by by road and rail.
UN3077 Hazardous materials being transported in UN approved barrels
Other Code Sections
The other sections of the UN code number also include essential information.
Maximum Gross Mass
This number refers to the maximum gross mass of the packaging plus its content. Liquids are measured in specific gravity, and the number will refer to the maximum specific gravity allowable for the packaging in kg relative to the density of the liquid.
Solid Or Inner Packaging
If the packaging has been tested for use with solids, an upper-case "S" should follow the maximum gross mass. The hydrostatic test pressure in Kps (kilopascals) rounded to the nearest 10kPs must be included for liquids.
Year Of Manufacture
The certificate holder must ensure the correct code for the year of manufacture is applied to the packaging. This can be checked against the list of approvals on the VCA website to confirm it was produced during a valid period.
The certification of each UN approved packaging type must be revalidated every five years. And it is important to adhere to this guidance. According to the VCA, “misapplication of a year code with intent to deceive is likely to constitute fraud”.
Location Of Manufacture
This is the country where the item was manufactured. Identifying the country of origin helps ensure compliance with local and international standards.
Manufacture Code
Every packaging manufacturer is assigned a specific code number. In the UK, this will be assigned by the VCA. The unique GB certificate number allocated to an approved package design type will remain with it for life—from one revalidation to the next—provided the package specification stays the same. This is useful for tracking purposes.
Gav and Claire from Invopak were delighted when we received UN certification for our rectangle tins.
Compliance With UN Packaging Standards Is Crucial For Safety
The global set of packaging standards set by the UN is crucial for environmental, health, and safety reasons. Packaging must be strong enough to keep hazardous products contained, protecting people and the environment.
UN-approved packaging is mandatory when shipping certain substances, such as chemicals and pharmaceuticals. Under UN regulations, some specific products require different packaging designs.
Packaging codes define whether a particular product is suitable for containing solid, liquid, or gas products. For example, Gases are UN Class 2, flammable liquids are UN Class 3, and flammable solids are UN Class 4. Knowing which class your product is ensures that the correct UN certified packaging is used.
Ensuring Product Safety And Compliance With The Right UN Approved Packaging
There are two reasons for choosing UN approved packaging - regulatory compliance and safety.
UN Certified For Compliance
- Legality: Failure to comply with UN packaging legislation is illegal and can result in a criminal prosecution.
- Export Compliance: Using UN certified packaging is necessary when exporting hazardous materials.
UN Certified For Safety
- Transport Safety: The right packaging materials and design prevent leaks, spills, and contamination when goods are shipped.
- Product Protection: UN codes ensure the right type, material, and safety category of packaging is used to keep the product safe.
- Environmental Safety: Using UN certified packaging helps protect the environment against toxic spills.
UN certified packaging being made at the Invopak Factory.
Invopak - Your UN Approved Packaging Supplier and Manufacturer
Invopak sells and manufactures UN approved packaging. UN certified options are available across all our product ranges, including buckets, bottles, jerry cans, drums, pails, and our own “Made in Manchester” rectangle tins.
We have been supplying packaging to businesses like yours for over fifty years, and our team is expert at finding the right containers for whatever you need to ship or store. So whether you’re shipping solvents to Southampton or chemicals to Carlisle, we can help.
UN Packaging FAQs
What Is UN Approved Packaging?
UN approved packaging is designed to contain and transport hazardous materials safely. This type of packaging meets the international safety standards set by the United Nations to ensure the secure storage and transportation of chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and other regulated goods.
Why iIs UN Approved Packaging Necessary For Hazardous Materials?
Using UN approved packaging to contain hazardous materials is necessary because it has been rigorously tested to withstand impact, pressure, and tough environmental conditions. This minimises the risk of spills, leaks, and environmental contamination during transport and storage.
What Types Of Industries Require UN Certified Packaging?
Industries that handle or transport hazardous materials, such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food additives, and petrochemicals, often require UN-certified packaging. This type of packaging ensures compliance with regulatory standards and protects public health, safety, and the environment.
How Can I Identify If Packaging Is UN Approved?
UN approved packaging is marked with specific codes that indicate its certification. These codes include symbols, numbers, and letters specifying the type of material, package, and the level of risk it can contain. For example, the UN symbol, followed by numbers and letters like “1A1/X/250/20,” reveals details such as the type of container and its approved use.
What Are The Main Materials Used In UN Approved Packaging?
UN approved packaging can be made from various materials, each suited to different types of hazardous goods. Common materials include steel (for durability), aluminium (lightweight and corrosion-resistant), plastic (widely used for liquids), and glass or porcelain (chemically stable for specific substances). Each material is chosen based on its compatibility with the contents.
What Happens If The Wrong Type Of Packaging Is Used For Hazardous Materials?
Using incorrect packaging can lead to leaks, contamination, or even reactions between the packaging and its contents. For instance, chemicals like acetone can erode certain plastics, leading to spills and potential hazards. Choosing the right UN certified packaging is crucial to avoid these risks and comply with safety regulations.
What Do UN Packaging Codes Mean?
UN packaging codes provide information about the type of packaging, material, and risk level it is certified for, for example, codes “X,” “Y,” and “Z” indicate the hazard level the packaging can handle, with “X” for high-risk, “Y” for moderate-risk, and “Z” for low-risk. Understanding these codes is essential for selecting the correct packaging for your products. Find out more here.
Is UN Approved Packaging Reusable?
Some types of UN-approved packaging can be reused, but it depends on the material and the previous contents. Before reusing, the packaging must be thoroughly inspected and cleaned to ensure it remains compliant with safety standards. Always check if the packaging is certified for multiple uses and complies with regulations for your specific contents.
Who Regulates UN Approved Packaging Standards In The UK?
In the UK packaging standards are regulated by the Vehicle Certification Agency’s (VCA) Dangerous Goods Office (DGO). They are responsible for issuing performance certificates, assigning GB UN approval marks, maintaining approval records, inspecting production samples and advising on the use of dangerous goods packaging.
How Do I Choose The Right UN Approved Product Packaging?
Selecting the right UN-approved packaging depends on the type of product, its risk level, and the regulations governing its transport and storage. Factors such as material compatibility, durability requirements, and volume will all influence your packaging requirements. Working with an experienced packaging supplier like Invopak can help you select the safest, most compliant option for your business.
