What is Packing Group and when is it required?

• A. A hazard level indicator used to determine packaging requirements for certain substances; required where the DGR lists a packing group for the substance.
• B. A color indicator on the package that indicates route.
• C. An internal stock code used for inventory.
• D. A classification used only for radioactive materials.

Answer: (B)

Packing Group is a hazard level designation that tells you how dangerous a substance is and directly influences the packaging and labeling required under the Dangerous Goods Regulations. It is used only when the regulation for that substance lists a packing group, typically as I, II, or III, with I being the most dangerous and requiring the strongest packaging, II a intermediate level, and III the least. This grouping helps determine the specific packaging instructions, tests, and labeling that apply to the substance. It’s not a color code, an internal stock code, or a designation limited to radioactive materials.