Section 14 of the Safety Data Sheet – Dangerous Goods Transport and Proper SDS Authoring
Creating Safety Data Sheets (SDS) is not only a matter of compliance with the REACH regulation but also a practical support for logistics processes. One of the key components, especially in international trade, is Section 14 of the SDS – Transport Information. As the name suggests, it contains transport-related information for hazardous substances and mixtures.
Properly completing this section has a direct impact on the ability to transport products by road, sea, or air. Below we explain what Section 14 should include and why it is so important in the SDS preparation process.
What does Section 14 of the SDS include?
In accordance with Annex II to the REACH Regulation (EU) 2020/878, Section 14 should include the following subsections:
14.1 UN Number or ID Number
This subsection provides the UN number or ID assigned to the product according to transport regulations (ADR, IMDG, IATA/ICAO, RID, ADN). The selection of the appropriate number should be based on hazard classification and carried out by a person with knowledge and experience in the classification of dangerous goods in transport.
14.2 UN Proper Shipping Name
This section indicates the official shipping name, supplemented – if required by regulations – with the technical name of the substance or mixture.
14.3 Transport Hazard Class(es)
Specifies the transport hazard class, which should match the UN number and be in line with relevant transport regulations (e.g. ADR, IMDG Code).
14.4 Packing Group
Indicates the Packing Group – I, II, or III – depending on the level of hazard.
14.5 Environmental Hazards
States whether the substance/mixture is classified as hazardous to the aquatic environment according to transport criteria.
14.6 Special Precautions for User
Includes guidelines for safe transport, required protective measures, and transport restrictions.
14.7 Maritime transport in bulk according to IMO instruments
Refers to goods transported in bulk by sea, according to IMO instruments. Applicable only in specific cases.
How to prepare Section 14 when authoring a Safety Data Sheet?
When preparing a Safety Data Sheet, creating Section 14 requires conducting a classification procedure in accordance with transport regulations. Note: CLP classification and transport classification may overlap in many areas, but they are not always identical – differences may involve both hazard class and packing group.
This process includes:
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Identifying hazards according to ADR/IMDG/ICAO TI
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Selecting the appropriate UN number
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Determining the primary hazard class (if the product meets classification criteria for multiple classes)
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Assessing environmental hazards
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Indicating transport precautions and restrictions
Proper assignment of these data is essential for subsequent steps: labelling, preparing transport documentation, and ensuring supply chain safety.
Why is Section 14 so important?
Although Sections 2 and 3 of the SDS often receive more attention, in the context of transport – particularly maritime and air transport – it is primarily Section 14 that determines whether the goods will be accepted for shipment.
For the carrier, the information in Section 14 determines how the shipment is handled, what markings are required, and which special provisions apply.
Regardless of which SDS section is considered the most important, our overarching goal should always be consistency of the information provided across all sections, so that the user has a clear legal and practical understanding of how to handle the product.
🚚 Incorrectly prepared Section 14 can result in transport refusal, shipment hold, or penalties.
SDS Authoring and Compliance with Transport Regulations
When using a professional SDS authoring service, it is advisable to rely on specialists with expertise in both CLP classification and transport regulations. Only then can you be sure that the document:
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Contains all data required for transport purposes,
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Complies with international regulations,
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Enables smooth transport and distribution.
Summary
Section 14 is a key element of every professionally prepared Safety Data Sheet. Its correct completion directly affects transport safety, regulatory compliance, and smooth logistics operations.
🔍 If you need support with Safety Data Sheet authoring, feel free to contact us.
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