Bulk Peroxyacetic Acid Shipments Require Approval | Help Center

PHMSA Reminder: Bulk Peroxyacetic Acid Shipments Require Approval

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has issued an important reminder for offerors involved in bulk shipments of peroxyacetic acid (PAA), an essential chemical used in various industrial and agricultural processes. Peroxyacetic acid is a powerful oxidizing agent that ships as an Oxidizer class 5.1 or Organic peroxide, class 5.2

According to PHMSA’s regulations, any offeror looking to transport peroxyacetic acid in bulk must obtain prior approval from the Associate Administrator, as outlined in § 173.128(d).

PHMSA has established stringent testing and classification guidelines to ensure public safety and environmental protection. These regulations are designed to confirm that the formulation of peroxyacetic acid is appropriately tested and classified for bulk shipment. Without the proper approval, there are concerns about improper handling, which could lead to accidents, spills, or hazardous situations during transport.

Offerors planning to ship peroxyacetic acid in bulk need to follow specific procedures before the shipment can occur. First and foremost, they must submit an application for approval to the Associate Administrator in accordance with § 107.705. This application must be in accordance with the testing requirements set forth in the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria, specifically Figure 20.1, which outlines the necessary test results to evaluate the material’s safety.

Three crucial tests must be conducted on the formulation of peroxyacetic acid for bulk shipment approval:

Test E – This test, detailed in Section 25 of the UN Manual, focuses on the substance’s potential for reacting dangerously under certain conditions, such as heat or pressure.
Test F – Section 26 of the Manual covers Test F, which assesses whether the material can be safely transported in bulk quantities without posing significant risk during transit.
Test H – According to Section 28, Test H evaluates the material’s compatibility with other substances and materials, ensuring that it will not pose an additional hazard when transported with other chemicals.

PHMSA has issued a comprehensive Safety Advisory that provides full details regarding the procedures, required tests, and approval process. Offerors are encouraged to thoroughly review this advisory to ensure compliance and prevent potential delays in shipment.

Ensuring the safe bulk shipment of peroxyacetic acid is a shared responsibility between manufacturers, shippers, and regulatory authorities. By obtaining the necessary approval and adhering to the required testing guidelines, offerors can help maintain the integrity of the transportation process while reducing the risks associated with handling hazardous materials. For more detailed information, please refer to PHMSA’s Safety Advisory and consult the UN Manual of Tests and Criteria for the full testing and classification protocol.

By following these essential guidelines, stakeholders can contribute to safer transport, ensure compliance with federal regulations, and minimize the risk of accidents.

ICC Compliance Center has a team of full-time Regulatory Experts who have years of experience and are certified/recognized in their field of expertise. Ask us your tough questions by calling 888.442.9628 (USA) or 888.977.4834 (Canada) or send us an email.