Search

USPS Updates Hazmat Packaging Rules in Publication 52

Posted on 7/21/2016 by Roger Marks

In a notice posted to the Federal Register today, the United States Postal Service announced the addition of a new Excepted Quantity Provision to the hazardous materials packaging provisions found in Publication 52. The updates bring the USPS rules up to date with changes PHMSA made to its Hazardous Materials Regulation (HMR) back in 2009.

At that time, PHMSA revised the HMR to incorporate international standards for small and excepted quantities shipped by air or vessel at 49 CFR 173.4. In doing so, PHMSA also clarified that the Small Quantity regulations apply only to hazmat shipments transported by highway or rail.

While the rules for shipping hazardous materials by mail are more stringent than the Hazardous Materials Regulations for commercial shippers, today’s update revises the USPS Small Quantity Provision to make it applicable only to surface mail products—matching what PHMSA did 7 years ago.

Excepted Hazmat Quantities and the “E” Marking

E marking for hazmat excepted quantities
In addition, USPS is adding an Excepted Quantity Provision to Publication 52 to require the use of the DOT-approved “E” marking on hazardous materials packages mailed under the Excepted Quantity rules.
Not all hazardous materials are eligible for relief under the USPS Excepted Quantity rules. USPS prohibits Hazard Classes 1, 2, 4, and 7 from being shipped under these provisions.

Read the full notice in the Federal Register here.

Tags: DOT, hazmat shipping, new rules, PHMSA

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

Given the choice, I would do all coursework this way. In-person courses go very fast without the opportunity to pause or repeat anything.

Ellen Pelton

Chemical Laboratory Manager

The instructor made the class enjoyable. He presented in a very knowledgeable, personable manner. Best class I've ever attended. Will take one again.

John Nekoloff

Environmental Compliance Manager

The instructor's energy, enthusiasm, and knowledge of the subject make the class a great learning experience!

Brian Martinez

Warehouse Operator

We have a very busy work schedule and using Lion enables us to take the course at our own time. It makes it easy for me to schedule my employees' training.

Timothy Mertes

Hazmat Shipping Professional

Lion's online training is more comprehensive, has better slides, and is a superior training experience than what I would get from other trainers.

Robert Brenner

District Environmental Manager

I like Lion's workshops the best because they really dig into the information you need to have when you leave the workshop.

Tom Bush, Jr.

EHS Manager

The instructor clearly enjoys his job and transmits that enthusiasm. He made a dry subject very interesting and fun.

Teresa Arellanes

EHS Manager

I have been to other training companies, but Lion’s material is much better and easier to understand.

Mark Abell

Regional Manager

Having the tutorial buttons for additional information was extremely beneficial.

Sharon Ziemek

EHS Manager

Well designed and thorough program. Excellent summary of requirements with references. Inclusion of regulations in hard copy form, as well as full electronic with state pertinent regulations included is a great bonus!

Oscar Fisher

EHS Manager

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

Four key considerations to help you maximize the convenience and quality of your experience with online training.

Latest Whitepaper

By submitting your phone number, you agree to receive recurring marketing and training text messages. Consent to receive text messages is not required for any purchases. Text STOP at any time to cancel. Message and data rates may apply. View our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.