4.1 Dangerous goods (hazardous materials) regulations require performance tests to be conducted on packaging designs before being authorized for use. The regulations do not include standardized procedures for conducting performance tests and, because of this, may result in a non-uniform approach and differences in test results between testing facilities.

4.2 The purpose of this guide is to provide guidance and to establish a set of common practices for conducting internal pressure tests on packagings subjected to UN certification testing or packagings required to meet pressure capability requirements.

4.3 This guide provides additional information not in the regulations that will facilitate consistent testing. The information and guidance provided here are intended to meet or exceed the minimum regulatory requirements. For more information on the UN certification requirements, refer to Guide D4919. For pressure testing of IBC design types, reference Guide D8134.

1.1 This guide is intended to provide a standardized method and a set of basic instructions for performing internal and hydrostatic pressure testing on packaging designs intended for shipping liquids in accordance with the United States Department of Transportation Title 49 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and the United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods (UN).

1.2 This guide provides information to help clarify various terms used as part of the United Nations (UN) certification process that may assist in determining the applicable test.

1.3 This guide provides the suggested minimum information that should be documented when conducting pressure testing.

1.4 This guide provides information for recommended equipment and fittings for conducting pressure tests.

1.5 This guide is based on the current information contained in 49 CFR, §173.27 and §178.605.

1.6 When testing packaging designs intended for hazardous materials (dangerous goods), the user of this guide shall be trained in accordance with 49 CFR §172.700 and other applicable hazardous materials regulations such as the ICAO Technical Instructions, IMDG Code, and carrier rules such as the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations.

1.7 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.8 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.9 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.