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PG I Liquids: Why X Packaging May Not Be Enough

PG I Liquids: Why X Packaging May Not Be Enough

Understanding X, Y, and Z Performance Levels

When it comes to packaging for the transportation of dangerous goods, most of us have been trained that the packing group drives the required performance level of the outer packaging.

  • X performance packaging is authorized for Packing Groups I, II, and III,
  • Y packaging for Packing Groups II and III, and
  • Z packaging for Packing Group III only.

The Performance Marking Is Only Part of the Picture

While this principle is well understood, there is a critical factor that is sometimes overlooked, particularly when shipping liquids.

The 250 kPa Requirement for Packing Group I Liquids

For liquids of Packing Group I in single packaging, the performance marking alone is not sufficient. Both Canadian TDG and U.S. 49 CFR regulations clearly require that these packaging’s demonstrate the ability to withstand a minimum hydrostatic test pressure of 250 kPa. This requirement reflects the higher internal pressure risks associated with high-danger liquids and must be considered when selecting and procuring single packaging’s.

Some Liquids May Require a Higher Test Pressure

While certain substances may require packaging capable of withstanding even higher pressures, 250 kPa should be treated as the baseline requirement for PG I liquids.

Check More Than the X Rating

In closing, always look beyond the X, Y, or Z marking and confirm that the pressure resistance of the single packaging matches the packing group of the liquid being shipped.

Need help confirming whether your packaging is suitable for a PG I liquid? Contact ICC’s Regulatory Experts at 855.734.5469 or send us an email, we’re happy to help. Take a look at our UN Packaging FAQ for more information.

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Elton Woodfine

Elton Woodfine

Elton Woodfine CD (Canadian Decoration) served 22 years as a member of the Canadian Forces. Initially as an Infantry section Commander in the Princess Patricia Canadian Lite Infantry (PPCLI), he served on two peace keeping missions in the former Yugoslavia, and one combat tour in Afghanistan where his unit was awarded the Governor General Unit Citation for actions in combat. He then continued to serve as a member of the Royal Canadian Air Force as a firefighter, where he completed a diploma in Fire Science/ Fire-fighting from Memorial University and Occupational Health and Safety diploma from the University of New Brunswick. Lastly, in his career with the Canadian Forces, he served as a member of the Joint Incident Response Unit (CJIRU) as a Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Operator (CBRN Op), part of the Canadian Special Operation Command (CANSOFCOM). Upon his retirement from the Canadian Forces, he took a position as a Life Cycle Management of hazardous materials instructor for the logistical branch of the Department of National Defense and is knowledgeable in NFCC, CEPA 1999, IMHWR, TDGR, ICAO, IATA, IMDG, GHS and OH&S federal regulations.

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