You'll see a Hazchem code, or Emergency Action Code, on dangerous goods tankers, emergency information panels and bulk tank placards. It's a short code such as 2YE or 3Y that tells firefighters in seconds how to fight a fire or handle a spill. Here's how to read one.
Always take the Hazchem code for your product from its safety data sheet or the Australian Dangerous Goods Code. Never work it out yourself. This guide explains what the characters mean; it isn't a substitute for those sources.
The first character: how to fight it
- 1 โ water jets
- 2 โ water fog or fine spray
- 3 โ foam
- 4 โ dry agent; keep water away from the substance
The letter: protection, reaction and containment
The letter combines three messages: whether the substance can react violently (V), what protective equipment firefighters need, and whether a spill can be diluted or must be contained.
- P โ may react violently ยท full protective clothing ยท dilute
- R โ full protective clothing ยท dilute
- S โ may react violently ยท breathing apparatus ยท dilute
- T โ breathing apparatus ยท dilute
- W โ may react violently ยท full protective clothing ยท contain
- X โ full protective clothing ยท contain
- Y โ may react violently ยท breathing apparatus ยท contain
- Z โ breathing apparatus ยท contain
"Dilute" means a spill may be washed away with large amounts of water. "Contain" means it must be kept out of drains and waterways.
The E: consider evacuation
An E at the end means emergency services should consider evacuating people nearby. For example, LPG is commonly shown as 2YE: fight with fog, may react violently, breathing apparatus, contain, consider evacuation.
Where Hazchem codes appear
- Emergency information panels on tankers and containers: EIP with your UN number and Hazchem code, LPG EIP and Diesel EIP
- Bulk tank placards: Bulk tank information placard with your UN number and Hazchem code and Kerosene bulk tank placard (UN 1223, Hazchem 3Y)
- Site entrances: Hazchem outer warning placard
Related guides
- GHS pictograms, DG classes and Hazchem placards explained
- Dangerous goods placards and labels
- Fuel storage and diesel tank signs
Frequently asked questions
Where do I find my product's Hazchem code?
In section 14 of the safety data sheet, or in the Dangerous Goods List of the Australian Dangerous Goods Code.
Can you print my Hazchem code on a placard?
Yes. The EIP and bulk tank placards above let you enter your UN number and Hazchem code when you order.
Will my signs arrive before Christmas?
Every sign is made to order. Order by Wednesday 16 December (NSW, VIC, QLD, SA) or Wednesday 9 December (WA, NT) for delivery before Christmas. Every sign is 30% off until 31 December.
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