What is the UN number used for in hazardous materials transportation?

The UN number is specifically assigned to hazardous materials to uniquely identify and categorize them in the context of international shipping and transportation. This system is essential for ensuring safety during the handling and transport of dangerous goods. Each UN number corresponds to a particular substance or a group of substances with similar characteristics, which helps in facilitating proper measures for their transport and management.

By using the UN number, shippers and transporters can easily communicate detailed information about the hazardous material to emergency responders, regulatory authorities, and others involved in the transportation process. This identification helps to ensure that appropriate safety measures and handling procedures are applied, minimizing the risk of accidents or spills.

The classification of packaging types, labeling delivery vehicles, and tracking shipments are important aspects of hazardous materials transportation, but they do not specifically pertain to the UN number's primary purpose. Thus, the UN number serves as a critical tool for identifying hazardous substances on a global scale, promoting safer international shipping practices.