Goverman, with the cooperation of the Organization for Standardization in China (OSC), has developed a comprehensive list of hazardous goods for use in the transportation of goods throughout the Chinese territories. This list, GB 12268-90, is a full classification of the numerous hazardous goods that can be shipped in and from China.
Hazardous goods are dangerous due to their physical, chemical, toxicological, or other qualities that can cause injury, damage to property, or risk to the environment during transportation. Such goods must be properly labeled and packaged in accordance with the standards set out in GB12268-90 to ensure safe and efficient transport.
The list is divided into categories and subcategories according to the level of hazard they pose. The first category is divided into seven subcategories: explosives, flammable materials, radioactive materials, oxidizing substances, toxic substances, corrosive substances, and miscellaneous substances.
The second category comprises substances that are hazardous due to physical properties, such as compressed gas, flammable solids, unstable (reactive) liquids, and materials with a melting or boiling point. There are 38 hazardous physical properties under this category.
The third category contains goods with potential dangers from their chemical properties that cause fires, explosions, and other dangerous occurrences. Chemically hazardous goods include poison by inhalation, organic peroxides, liquefied petroleum gas, corrosives, and combustible liquids.
The fourth category covers materials that are hazardous due to their toxicological characteristics and can cause death, disease, or permanent injury. It consists of goods such as food additives, medicinal products, and environmental pollutants.
The fifth category covers miscellaneous goods that are incompatible with other goods and goods that are prohibited from freight services. These goods include goods that are labeled as “restricted goods” or “forbidden goods.”
The list in GB 12268-90 defines in detail the hazards of each of the goods listed and the arrangements to be made for their transportation. It informs transporters of the specific requirements for packing and labeling, as well as any special precautions to be observed when handling the goods.
GB 12268-90 is a comprehensive list of hazardous goods and serves to safeguard the safety of Chinese citizens, businesses, and the environment from potential danger during the transport of goods. It addresses the risks associated with transporting hazardous goods and the responsibility of transporters in the safe handling of such goods. It is an essential tool for the safe and efficient transportation of hazardous goods throughout the country.
