Testing and evaluation activities are conducted by knowledgeable packaging professionals. Test equipment and facilities specifically designed to meet the regulatory tests are utilized. DOT-required documentation is provided to the test sponsors and to the DOE shipping community through DOE's Test and Evaluation Document. Pay for disposal or return of tested packagings and associated materials. Some DOE sites and their contractors choose not to utilize DOE's test program.
Scheduling is an important aspect in satisfying a test sponsor's needs.
For planning purposes, a test docket can take 6 to 12 months from start to finish. However, if a particular schedule needs to be met, a shorter time frame may be possible. The test duration depends upon the complexity of the packaging and how well the initial packaging design has been documented. A regulatory compliance guide for Type A packaging design is provided by the test facility. By using the PQCL, the sponsor can avoid potential delays.