Which DOT hazard class includes radioactive substances?

Which DOT hazard class includes radioactive substances?

• A. Class 2
• B. Class 4
• C. Class 7
• D. Class 9

Answer: (C)

Hazard classes for transport are organized by the main danger a material poses during shipment. Radioactive substances are grouped into Class 7 because their defining hazard is ionizing radiation, which requires specialized handling, packaging, labeling, and safety procedures separate from flammable, toxic, or other hazards. Because it’s Class 7, these shipments must have packaging designed to shield radiation and prevent leaks, radioactive placards and labels, and specific limits on how much radioactive material can be shipped in a package or shipment, along with trained personnel for handling and emergency response. The other options cover different hazards: Class 2 is gases, Class 4 covers flammable solids (and related materials), and Class 9 is miscellaneous dangerous goods. None of these center on radiation, which is why they don’t apply to radioactive substances.

Hazard classes for transport are organized by the main danger a material poses during shipment. Radioactive substances are grouped into Class 7 because their defining hazard is ionizing radiation, which requires specialized handling, packaging, labeling, and safety procedures separate from flammable, toxic, or other hazards.

Because it’s Class 7, these shipments must have packaging designed to shield radiation and prevent leaks, radioactive placards and labels, and specific limits on how much radioactive material can be shipped in a package or shipment, along with trained personnel for handling and emergency response.

The other options cover different hazards: Class 2 is gases, Class 4 covers flammable solids (and related materials), and Class 9 is miscellaneous dangerous goods. None of these center on radiation, which is why they don’t apply to radioactive substances.