UN numbers are a globally recognized system for identifying hazardous materials during transportation. These four-digit codes provide a standardized way to communicate the specific dangers of a substance. Their primary purpose is to ensure the safe movement of materials, protecting people, property, and the environment. Quick identification allows emergency responders and transport personnel to implement appropriate safety measures.
Understanding UN3264
UN3264 specifically identifies “Corrosive liquid, acidic, inorganic, N.O.S.”. This designation falls under Hazard Class 8, which is assigned to corrosive substances. A corrosive material is defined as a liquid or solid that can cause full-thickness destruction of human skin upon contact within a specified timeframe. It also includes liquids that demonstrate a severe corrosion rate on steel or aluminum surfaces.
The “N.O.S.” abbreviation stands for “Not Otherwise Specified.” This is a significant aspect of this UN number, meaning UN3264 applies to corrosive, acidic, inorganic liquids that do not have their own unique, more specific UN identification number. When a substance or mixture shares these general hazardous characteristics but lacks a distinct entry, it is categorized under an N.O.S. designation to ensure proper classification for safe transport.
Common Substances Under UN3264
Substances categorized under UN3264 share the fundamental characteristics of being acidic, inorganic, and highly corrosive. Their acidic nature means they have a low pH, capable of reacting with and breaking down various materials. The inorganic designation indicates they do not primarily consist of carbon-hydrogen bonds, distinguishing them from organic acids.
Examples of materials that might fall under the UN3264 classification include certain industrial cleaning agents or specific laboratory reagents. For instance, mixtures containing hypophosphorous acid, nitric acid, or phosphoric acid could be designated as UN3264. Similarly, formulations containing chromic acid and hydrofluoric acid may also be classified this way.
Safe Handling and Transport
The classification of a substance as UN3264 is fundamental for establishing proper safety protocols during its handling and transport. Because these materials are corrosive, they pose significant risks to human tissue, other materials, and the environment. Therefore, stringent measures are in place to mitigate these dangers.
Proper labeling is a primary requirement, with packages displaying the Class 8 corrosive label to clearly indicate the hazard. Packaging for UN3264 materials must be robust and corrosion-resistant, designed to prevent leakage or reaction with the container itself. This includes specific requirements for bottle strength and closure integrity to withstand the rigors of transport. Certain types of cargo tanks are explicitly not authorized for these materials due to their corrosive properties.
Emergency response procedures are also crucial for these substances, with guidelines provided in resources like the Emergency Response Guidebook. In the event of a spill or accident, personnel must use appropriate personal protective equipment, such as chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection, and full body chemical-resistant clothing. Containment of spills is important to prevent environmental contamination, and these materials should be kept separate from incompatible substances like strong bases or oxidizing agents to avoid dangerous reactions. Adequate ventilation is also important to manage any hazardous vapors that may be released.