When it comes to transporting hazardous materials, safety and compliance depend heavily on the type of container used. Drums that carry chemicals, flammables, or waste must be designed and certified to prevent leaks, ruptures, and environmental harm. A UN rating code identifies that a container has been tested and approved to meet international standards for transporting dangerous goods.
Understanding which materials require a UN rating code helps ensure your operation stays compliant with transportation and storage regulations. Whether you’re using hazmat drums, a 55 gallon hazmat drum, or specialized hazmat storage drums, proper container certification is essential. Gorilla Drum offers durable, compliant alternatives for safely managing hazardous liquids, solids, and waste.
What Is a UN Rating Code?
The UN rating code is a universal marking system developed by the United Nations for containers used to transport hazardous materials. These codes indicate the container’s material, construction type, performance level, and the specific hazard classes it can safely contain.
Each code is unique to the drum and appears on its surface, usually embossed or printed near the top. This code helps inspectors, shippers, and handlers quickly identify whether a container is appropriate for a particular type of hazardous material.
For an in-depth explanation of how these codes are assigned, visit the Understanding UN And DOT Ratings For Hazmat Drums resource, which explains how the UN system aligns with U.S. DOT requirements.
Why Certain Materials Require a UN Rating Code
Any substance that poses a risk to health, safety, or the environment during transport is considered hazardous. These materials must be packaged in UN rated hazmat drums or other DOT approved hazmat containers that meet rigorous testing standards.
The primary goal of the UN rating system is to reduce the risk of spills, contamination, or explosions. UN certification ensures that drums can withstand impact, vibration, pressure changes, and stacking forces during transit or storage.
The materials requiring UN-rated containers include flammable, toxic, corrosive, reactive, and environmentally hazardous substances. Choosing the proper drum is essential for compliance with both international and domestic shipping regulations.
Common Types of Materials That Require UN-Rated Drums
1. Flammable Liquids
Liquids such as gasoline, acetone, ethanol, and solvents must be stored in drums tested for leakproofness and impact resistance. These materials can ignite easily, so they require sealed, pressure-tested containers like a tight-head steel or composite 55 gallon hazmat drum.
These drums are typically rated for Packing Group II or III, depending on the liquid’s volatility and flash point.
2. Corrosive Materials
Corrosive chemicals such as acids, alkalis, and industrial cleaning agents can degrade or damage certain materials. They require UN rated hazmat drums made from corrosion-resistant plastics or composites.
Polyethylene or polypropylene drums are commonly used for storing corrosive waste because they resist chemical attack while maintaining structural strength.
3. Toxic and Poisonous Substances
Toxic materials—including pesticides, laboratory chemicals, and contaminated industrial residues—must be stored in containers that prevent any release of fumes or liquids.
Hazmat barrels with tight closures and reinforced walls are essential for these waste streams. The UN rating confirms that the drum can handle toxic contents without failure under transport conditions.
4. Reactive Chemicals
Reactive chemicals can produce dangerous reactions when exposed to air, moisture, or other substances. Examples include peroxides, sodium metal, and certain unstable organic compounds.
These materials must be packaged in containers that prevent exposure and are compatible with the waste. UN rated hazmat drums ensure containment stability, even under variable environmental conditions.
5. Flammable Solids and Combustible Powders
Many solid materials—such as magnesium, sulfur, and certain metal powders—can ignite from friction or heat. They require UN-rated containers that are impact-resistant and minimize exposure to air or moisture.
Steel or composite drums are often chosen for these materials because they provide excellent durability and mechanical strength.
6. Hazardous Waste and Contaminated Materials
Waste streams containing mixtures of chemicals or residues are classified as hazardous waste. These materials must be collected and transported in certified containers such as a hazardous waste drum.
Facilities typically rely on 55 gallon drums for hazardous waste collection, ensuring compliance with EPA and DOT rules. Proper labeling and use of UN rated hazmat drums help avoid cross-contamination and regulatory issues.
Materials That May Not Require a UN Rating
Non-hazardous materials—such as water-based paints, certain food-grade substances, or non-toxic debris—do not require UN-rated containers. However, if there is any chance of contamination, or if the product could be classified as hazardous in certain jurisdictions, it’s safer to use UN-certified containers to avoid compliance risks.
Testing Requirements for UN-Rated Drums
To earn a UN rating, a drum must undergo several performance tests, including:
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Drop tests to simulate handling impacts
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Leakproofness tests to confirm airtight sealing
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Hydrostatic pressure tests to ensure pressure resistance
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Vibration tests to replicate transportation movement
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Stacking tests to verify stability during storage
These tests ensure that UN-rated hazmat drums can withstand real-world transportation and handling conditions.
For detailed container selection advice, refer to the Guide To Choosing The Right Hazmat Drums For Waste Storage, which outlines container compatibility and waste management best practices.
How UN Ratings and DOT Approval Work Together
While the UN system provides international performance standards, the U.S. Department of Transportation enforces them domestically. Containers used for transporting hazardous waste within the United States must meet DOT specifications and display appropriate markings.
Most UN rated hazmat drums are also DOT approved hazmat containers, ensuring compliance in both domestic and international transport. This dual certification simplifies logistics while maintaining the highest safety standards.
Gorilla Drum: The Modern UN and DOT Compliant Solution
Gorilla Drum offers a new generation of waste containers designed to meet and exceed UN and DOT requirements. Made from durable polypropylene, Gorilla Drum is lightweight, collapsible, and reinforced for safety and compliance.
It provides a reliable solution for chemical drum storage, hazardous waste containment, and industrial waste management. Facilities that switch to Gorilla Drum benefit from:
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UN and DOT compliant performance
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Reduced storage footprint due to collapsible design
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Reinforced double-zipper closure for secure containment
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Compatibility with both solids and liquids
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Easier handling with lift loops and dolly straps
Final Thoughts
Any material that poses a chemical, flammable, corrosive, or toxic risk during storage or transport requires a UN-rated drum. Using certified containers ensures compliance, protects workers, and prevents environmental hazards.
For facilities seeking safe and efficient solutions for 55 gallon drums for hazardous waste or other regulated materials, Gorilla Drum offers industry-leading innovation and reliability.
To learn more about UN and DOT compliant drum solutions, call +1 800-758-8079.