Search

Keeping Up With the Changes to International Dangerous Goods Regulations

Posted on 12/20/2011 by James Griffin

Q. How much longer can I ship something as a Consumer Commodity, ORM-D?
 
A. On January 19, 2011, the Department of Transportation (DOT) promulgated a new regulation that phases out the ORM-D classification [76 FR 3308]. In the past, this classification has applied to packages of “consumer commodities.” These are defined as materials that are “packaged and distributed in a form intended or suitable for sale through retail sales agencies…for consumption by individuals for purposes of personal care or household use” [49 CFR 171.8]. In essence, these are typical hazardous materials that are packaged in a form you could find on a store shelf.
 
ORM-D packages have been given much relief from the regulations, including, but not limited to:
 
  • Not needing to use UN performance tested packaging,
  • Not requiring hazard class labels on packages,
  • Not requiring placards for vehicles containing ORM-D packages, and
  • Not having to create hazmat shipping papers (unless the material is a hazardous waste, hazardous substance, marine pollutant, or going by air or vessel).
To harmonize with other international hazmat regulations (which do not recognize the ORM-D classification), the DOT has decided to phase out ORM-D and simply place these packages under the label “limited quantity.” The good news is that limited quantities still get the same relief as ORM-D. The only real practical difference for most shippers is that the markings on the outside of the package will be slightly different.
 
There are actually two phase-out dates for the ORM-D classification. For those that ship materials as ORM-D-AIR (which is more uncommon), the last acceptable date is December 31, 2012. Then, one year later, on December 31, 2013, the common ORM-D classification will come to an end.
 
It is important to note you do not have to wait until these dates to ship something under the new limited quantity reliefs. You can switch over to the new limited quantity rules at any time during this transition period.

Tags: DOT, hazmat shipping, limited quantities, new rules

Find a Post

Compliance Archives

Lion - Quotes

Amazing instructor; real-life examples. Lion training gets better every year!

Frank Papandrea

Environmental Manager

The workshop covered a lot of information without being too overwhelming. Lion is much better, more comprehensive than other training providers.

George Alva

Manufacturing Manager

I was recently offered an opportunity to take my training through another company, but I politely declined. I only attend Lion Technology workshops.

Stephanie Gilliam

Material Production/Logistics Manager

I was able to present my scenario to the instructor and worked thru the regulations together. In the past, I attended another training firm's classes. Now, I have no intention of leaving Lion!

Diana Joyner

Senior Environmental Engineer

I had a positive experience utilizing this educational program. It was very informative, convenient, and rewarding from a career perspective.

John Gratacos

Logistics Manager

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

Teresa Arellanes

EHS Manager

Lion's course was superior to others I have taken in the past. Very clear in the presentation and the examples helped to explain the content presented.

George Bersik

Hazardous Waste Professional

I think LION does an excellent job of any training they do. Materials provided are very useful to my day-to-day work activities.

Pamela Embody

EHS Specialist

Having the tutorial buttons for additional information was extremely beneficial.

Sharon Ziemek

EHS Manager

More thorough than a class I attended last year through another company.

Troy Yonkers

HSES Representative

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

Spot and correct 4 of the most common universal waste errors before they result in a notice of violation during a Federal or state inspection.

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.