Date:
Oktober 29, 2024
Categories:
Tips & Tricks,
What is polymerizing substance (UN 3532)?
Polymerizing substances are particularly sensitive to temperature and pressure, which makes them highly flammable and dangerous to people and the environment. These properties require special caution and clear handling guidelines. UN 3532 is classified as a flammable substance according to ADR Class 4.1 and categorized in packing group III.
Important information about UN 3532:
- Substance: Polymerizing substance, liquid, stabilized, N.O.G.
- UN number: 3532
- Danger number: 40
- ADR class: 4.1 (Flammable solid)
- Packing group: III
ADR adjustment and ERICards update for UN 3532
With the Adaptation to ADR and EAC 2017, the ERICards were adapted to the latest ADR requirements, which led to the introduction of new UN numbers and the updating of existing classifications. This also includes the inclusion of UN 3532. These changes were implemented in May 2019 and affect a number of new hazardous substances.
The updated ERICards include, among others, the following UN numbers:
UN 1005, UN 1942, UN 2067, UN 2073, UN 2672, UN 2815, UN 2977, UN 2978, UN 3109, UN 3110, UN 3119, UN 3120, UN 3151, UN 3152, UN 3318, UN 3531, UN 3532 , UN 3533, UN 3534
Updating the ERICards helps to continuously improve safety standards in the handling and transportation of these hazardous substances and keep them up to date with the latest regulations.
Hazards and properties of UN 3532
UN 3532 is a highly or spontaneously flammable substance that develops hazardous vapors and can self-heat under certain conditions. This makes it a dangerous cargo that may only be handled under strict protective measures.
Physical properties: The substance is flammable and can self-heat.
Hazardous vapors: In case of strong heating or fire, toxic and irritating vapors are formed which are heavier than air and spread on the ground.
Self-heating capability: The substance can spontaneously ignite under certain conditions, posing an immediate danger to emergency personnel and the surrounding area.
Hazard warning: The vapors of UN 3532 are invisible, heavier than air and can accumulate in low-lying areas such as basements or sewers.
Protective measures for handling UN 3532
Handling UN 3532 requires strict protective measures to minimize the risk of skin, eye or respiratory tract damage.
Protective clothing: Chemical-resistant clothing, e.g. splash protection or acid protective clothing, is necessary.
Respiratory protection: A self-contained breathing apparatus should be worn to protect against toxic vapors.
Safety distance and ventilation: The number of people in the danger zone should be kept to a minimum and good ventilation is essential.
The right labeling
Orange warning signs:
These plates show the UN number and danger number. Our warning signs have been specially developed for the safe identification of dangerous goods in accordance with ADR, RID, IATA and IMDG Code
Placards:
The color and number of the danger label usually indicates the dangerous goods class. We also provide the additional label for heated substances in this format.
Danger label:
These labels indicate the hazard classes and subclasses of the actual package.
Technical names:
provide clear identification of hazardous substances in accordance with the latest regulations of the IMDG Code 2023.
Procedure in case of substance leakage and fire
The following measures are important to ensure safety in the event of a material leak or fire.
Material leakage
- Leak closure: Attempt to close leaks.
- Collecting the product: Collect the spilled product with materials such as sand or earth.
- Information of the authorities: If the substance enters the sewage system or an open body of water, the responsible authority must be informed.
- Ventilation: If there is danger in the area, ventilation of sewers and lower-lying rooms is advisable.
Firefighting
- Container cooling: Cool the container from the outside with water to prevent pressure from rising.
- Use spray jet: Only use spray jet to extinguish; Avoid full jet to minimize residue.
- Contain smoke and fire gases: If possible, knock down fire gases with a spray jet. Extinguishing agents must be withheld for environmental reasons.
First aid measures in case of contact with UN 3532
Quick and correct first aid is crucial to minimize damage to health.
- Eye contact: If the substance gets into the eye, rinse with clean water for at least 15 minutes. Then consult a doctor immediately.
- Skin contact: Remove clothing immediately and clean the affected area of skin thoroughly with soap and water.
- Inhalation of vapors: Remove affected persons to fresh air and seek medical attention immediately. If burns occur, cool the affected skin areas with cold water for as long as possible.
After use - cleaning and disposal
Correct cleaning and disposal of the equipment used is crucial to avoid contamination.
Removing protective clothing: Before removing the protective mask and suit, rinse them thoroughly with water to remove any remaining residue.
Cleaning equipment: Clean all equipment and protective materials with water before removing them from the scene. The resulting cleaning fluid must be disposed of properly.
The correct classification
The correct classification of substances for transport, especially in the context of dangerous goods transport, requires special knowledge and experience in the area of dangerous goods regulations. There are various experts and resources that can help with the classification of substances:
- Dangerous goods officers: many companies that transport dangerous goods have specially trained dangerous goods officers. These individuals are responsible for the safe handling, labeling and documentation of dangerous goods.
Dangerous goods advisors: External dangerous goods advisors are experts who can support companies in the proper classification, labeling and documentation of dangerous goods. They have specialist knowledge of the applicable regulations and can help with the classification of substances. - Authorities and regulatory bodies: The relevant national and international authorities and regulatory bodies, such as the Federal Office for Logistics and Mobility (BALM) in Germany or the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), provide guidelines and regulations for the transportation of dangerous goods. They can also answer questions about the classification of substances.
- Databases and resources: There are databases and resources that provide information on various hazardous substances and their classification according to international regulations. These can be used as reference works.
Training courses and seminars: Attending training courses and seminars on the transportation of dangerous goods can help companies and individuals gain the necessary knowledge to classify substances correctly.
It is important to consult the relevant national and international regulations and guidelines and to always consult experts in case of uncertainties or questions to ensure that dangerous goods are transported safely and legally. The classification of substances is crucial to avoid accidents and hazards.
Conclusion
Polymerizing substances such as UN 3532 place high demands on handling due to their flammability and hazardous vapours. The right safety measures help to minimize risks and protect health. The use of chemical-resistant protective clothing and respiratory protection is crucial. By adapting the ERICards to the latest ADR regulations, safety when handling and transporting such substances remains up to date.
Stay informed and protect yourself and those around you by following the above safety guidelines.
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