Analyze an SDS

DOT Class 7: Radioactive Materials

DOT Class 7 covers radioactive materials: any material containing radionuclides where both the activity concentration and the total activity in the consignment exceed the values listed in the regulations. It has its own labels, package types and radiation-level limits.

How it is defined

  • Classification depends on the specific radionuclides and their activity, not only on dose rate.
  • Packages are categorized I-White, II-Yellow or III-Yellow based on the radiation level at the surface and at 1 meter (the transport index).
  • Packaging types (excepted, industrial, Type A, Type B and others) are chosen according to the content and activity.

Summary of 49 CFR Parts 171 to 180. The regulations and the Hazardous Materials Table (49 CFR 172.101) control any shipment.

Label and placard

Colors
Upper half yellow, lower half white
Symbol
Radiation trefoil

A diamond with a yellow upper half, white lower half and a trefoil, with the word RADIOACTIVE and the transport index if applicable.

Packing groups

None. Class 7 uses package types and label categories instead. How packing groups work.

Common examples

  • Medical isotopes
  • Industrial gauges and radiography sources
  • Uranium and thorium compounds

How it relates to GHS

GHS does not classify radioactivity, so Class 7 has no GHS counterpart. Radiation hazards are managed under radiation safety rules.

See the GHS hazard classes for the classes that are covered.

DOT classes and GHS classes are assigned under different rules, so a product can have different severity labels in each. See also all GHS hazard classes.

Safe handling reminders

  • Control access and keep exposure as low as reasonably achievable.
  • Follow radiation protection program rules from the regulator and licence.
  • Use only authorized shippers and carriers.

Where to find it on an SDS

Section 14 may list Class 7 with the radionuclide, UN number and package category, though radioactive materials generally need specialized documents. Look in Section 14: Transport information. Hazard classification for the workplace is in Section 2. You can also see how a UN number points to a response guide on the UN and NA numbers page.

Frequently asked questions

What are the DOT radioactive labels?

Radioactive packages carry a Radioactive White-I, Yellow-II or Yellow-III label depending on the radiation level at the surface and at one meter.

General reference only. It does not replace the supplier's SDS or the current federal regulations.