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

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

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

Lion was very responsive to my initial questions and the website was user friendly.

Michael Britt

Supply Chain Director

Course instructor was better prepared and presented better than other trainers. Course manual and references were easier to use as well.

Marty Brownfield

Hazardous Waste Professional

I used the IT support number available and my issue was resolved within a few minutes. I don't see anything that could have made it better.

Danny Province

EHS Professional

This is a very informative training compared to others. It covers everything I expect to learn and even a lot of new things.

Quatama Jackson

Waste Management Professional

This was the 1st instructor that has made the topic actually enjoyable and easy to follow and understand. Far better than the "other" training providers our company has attended!

Lori Hardy

Process & Resource Administrator

Energetic/enthusiastic! Made training enjoyable, understandable and fun!

Amanda Walsh

Hazardous Waste Professional

Very good. I have always appreciated the way Lion Tech develops, presents and provides training and materials.

John Troy

Environmental Specialist

I really enjoyed this training. Even after years on both sides of the comprehension coin, I find myself still learning! The quality of the delivery exceeded much of the training I have received in the past.

Neil Ozonur

Safety Officer

Download Our Latest Whitepaper

The definitive 10-step guide for new hazardous materials shipping managers. Quickly reference the major considerations and details that impact hazmat shipping compliance.

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.