Which DOT hazard class is described as corrosives (acid or base)?

Which DOT hazard class is described as corrosives (acid or base)?

• A. Class 9: Miscellaneous
• B. Class 8: Corrosives (acid or base)
• C. Class 3: Flammable liquids
• D. Class 5: Oxidizers or organic peroxides

Answer: (B)

Corrosives are substances that can cause severe chemical burns to skin and eyes and can also corrode metals. Acids and bases are the classic examples of this hazard. In the DOT system, these materials are assigned to Class 8. This classification informs how they’re packaged, labeled, stored, and handled—containers must resist corrosive action, and shipments require appropriate PPE, eye protection, and corrosion-resistant packaging and equipment. Placards and shipping papers will reflect the corrosive nature to warn responders and handlers. The other options describe different hazards: flammable liquids burn readily, oxidizers or organic peroxides can react vigorously with fuels or reducing agents, and miscellaneous dangerous goods cover items that don’t fit other classes.

Corrosives are substances that can cause severe chemical burns to skin and eyes and can also corrode metals. Acids and bases are the classic examples of this hazard. In the DOT system, these materials are assigned to Class 8. This classification informs how they’re packaged, labeled, stored, and handled—containers must resist corrosive action, and shipments require appropriate PPE, eye protection, and corrosion-resistant packaging and equipment. Placards and shipping papers will reflect the corrosive nature to warn responders and handlers.

The other options describe different hazards: flammable liquids burn readily, oxidizers or organic peroxides can react vigorously with fuels or reducing agents, and miscellaneous dangerous goods cover items that don’t fit other classes.