The manufacturer designs, constructs, and tests packagings in accordance with CFR 49, Part 178. HM-181 allows Performance Oriented Packaging for domestic shipments. DOT specification packaging can no longer be manufactured. Hazardous Materials can no longer be packaged and shipped in DOT specification packagings. All test records are to be kept at each location where the packagings are manufactured and at each location where design qualification tests are performed.
Records are to be kept as long as the packaging is produced and for at least two years thereafter.
Design Qualification Testing Design qualification testing is performed to determine the capabilities of a packaging. Packages as prepared for transportation are dropped from the appropriate height onto a rigid, horizontal and flat surface. The number and type of drops depend on the packaging being tested. The drop height will depend on the Packing Group and Specific Gravity of the material for which the packaging may be used. To ensure that the package will not leak or permit liquids to escape as a result of the normal build up of air pressure within the packaging under conditions of transport.