Dangerous Goods by Road
Provisions for labels
Labels shall satisfy the provisions below and conform, in terms of colour, symbols and general
format, to the models shown in 5.2.2.2.2. Corresponding models required for other modes of
transport, with minor variations which do not affect the obvious meaning of the label, are also
acceptable.
NOTE: Where appropriate, labels in 5.2.2.2.2 are shown with a dotted outer boundary as provided
for in 5.2.2.2.1.1. This is not required when the label is applied on a background of contrasting
colour.
Labels shall be configured as shown in Figure 5.2.2.2.1.1.
Figure 5.2.2.2.1.1
Class/division label
* The class or for Classes 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3, the figure "4" or for Classes 6.1 and 6.2, the figure "6",
shall be shown in the bottom corner.
** Additional text/numbers/symbol/letters shall (if mandatory) or may (if optional) be shown in this
bottom half.
*** The class symbol or, for divisions 1.4, 1.5 and 1.6, the division number and for Model No 7E the
word "FISSILE" shall be shown in this top half.
Labels shall be displayed on a background of contrasting colour, or shall have either a dotted or solid
outer boundary line.
The label shall be in the form of a square set at an angle of 45° (diamond-shaped). The minimum
dimensions shall be 100 mm x 100 mm and the minimum width of the line inside the edge forming
the diamond shall be 2 mm. The line inside the edge shall be parallel and 5 mm from the outside of
that line to the edge of the label. The line inside the edge on the upper half of the label shall be the
same colour as the symbol and the line inside the edge on the lower half of the label shall be the same
colour as the class or division number in the bottom corner. Where dimensions are not specified, all
features shall be in approximate proportion to those shown.
If the size of the package so requires the dimensions may be reduced, provided the symbols and other
elements of the label remain clearly visible. The line inside the edge shall remain 5 mm to the edge of
the label. The minimum width of the line inside the edge shall remain 2 mm. Dimensions for cylinders
shall comply with 5.2.2.2.1.2.
Cylinders for Class 2 may, on account of their shape, orientation and securing mechanisms for
carriage, bear labels representative of those specified in this section and the environmentally
hazardous substance mark when appropriate, which have been reduced in size, according to the
dimensions outlined in ISO 7225:2005, "Gas cylinders - Precautionary labels", for display on the
non-cylindrical part (shoulder) of such cylinders.
NOTE: When the diameter of the cylinder is too small to permit the display of the reduced size labels
on the non-cylindrical upper part of the cylinder, the reduced sized labels may be displayed on the
cylindrical part.
Notwithstanding the provisions of 5.2.2.1.6, labels and the environmentally hazardous substance mark
(see 5.2.1.8.3) may overlap to the extent provided for by ISO 7225:2005. However, in all cases, the
primary risk label and the figures appearing on any label shall remain fully visible and the symbols
recognizable.
Empty uncleaned pressure receptacles for gases of Class 2 may be carried with obsolete or damaged
labels for the purposes of refilling or inspection as appropriate and the application of a new label in
conformity with current regulations or for the disposal of the pressure receptacle.
With the exception of labels for Divisions 1.4, 1.5 and 1.6 of Class 1, the upper half of the label shall
contain the pictorial symbol and the lower half shall contain:
(a) For Classes 1, 2, 3, 5.1, 5.2, 7, 8 and 9, the class number;
(b) For Classes 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3, the figure "4";
(c) For Classes 6.1 and 6.2, the figure "6".
However for label model No. 9A, the upper half of the label shall only contain the seven vertical
stripes of the symbol and the lower half shall contain the group of batteries of the symbol and the
class number.
Except for label model No. 9A, the labels may include text such as the UN number or words
describing the hazard (e.g. "flammable") in accordance with 5.2.2.2.1.5 provided the text does not
obscure or detract from the other required label elements.
In addition, except for Divisions 1.4, 1.5 and 1.6, labels for Class 1 shall show in the lower half,
above the class number, the division number and the compatibility group letter for the substance or
article. Labels for Divisions 1.4, 1.5 and 1.6 shall show in the upper half the division number, and in
the lower half the class number and the compatibility group letter.
On labels other than those for material of Class 7, the optional insertion of any text (other than the
class number) in the space below the symbol shall be confined to particulars indicating the nature of
the risk and precautions to be taken in handling.
The symbols, text and numbers shall be clearly legible and indelible and shall be shown in black on
all labels except for:
(a) The Class 8 label, where the text (if any) and class number shall appear in white;
(b) Labels with entirely green, red or blue backgrounds where they may be shown in white;
(c) The Class 5.2 label, where the symbol may be shown in white; and
(d) Labels conforming to model No. 2.1 displayed on cylinders and gas cartridges for gases of
UN Nos. 1011, 1075, 1965 and 1978, where they may be shown in the background colour of
the receptacle if adequate contrast is provided.
All labels shall be able to withstand open weather exposure without a substantial reduction in
effectiveness.
Specimen labels
PLACARDING AND MARKING OF CONTAINERS, MEGCs, MEMUs, TANKCONTAINERS, PORTABLE TANKS AND VEHICLES
NOTE: For marking and placarding of containers, MEGCs, tank-containers and portable tanks for carriage
in a transport chain including a maritime journey, see also 1.1.4.2.1. If the provisions of 1.1.4.2.1 (c)
are applied, only 5.3.1.3 and 5.3.2.1.1 of this Chapter are applicable.