Classifications of Hazardous Materials

Need multiple seats for your university or lab? Get a quote
The page below is a sample from the LabCE course Packaging and Shipping Infectious Materials. Access the complete course and earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.-approved continuing education credits by subscribing online.

Learn more about Packaging and Shipping Infectious Materials (online CE course)
Classifications of Hazardous Materials

Hazardous materials are classified according to the risks that they pose. These nine hazardous materials classifications are consistent across all agencies that regulate commercial shipping.
  • Class 1: Explosives
  • Class 2: Gases
  • Class 3: Flammable liquids
  • Class 4: Flammable solids
  • Class 5: Oxidizers/organic peroxides
  • Class 6: Toxic and infectious substances
  • Class 7: Radioactive material
  • Class 8: Corrosives
  • Class 9: Miscellaneous hazardous materials (includes Dry Ice)

Top: A Division 6.2 label for infectious substances.
Bottom: A Class 9 label for dry ice.
A shipment with the Division 6.2 and Class 9 labels, highlighted in red.