Transport Canada

CAN/CGSB-43.146 sets out the requirements for design and manufacture of UN standardized intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) with a capacity less than or equal to 3000 L and their selection and use for transport of dangerous goods included in Class 3, 4, 5, 6.1, 8 or 9.

Learn more about the standards and regulations by visiting CAN/CGSB-43.146 on Transport Canada’s site.

Q1. What is a UN standardized IBC?

A1. A UN standardized intermediate bulk container (IBC) is an IBC manufactured in accordance with the requirements specified in chapter 6.5* of the UN Recommendations on the Transport of

Dangerous Goods (UN Recommendations) and the national regulations of the country of manufacture.  UN Standardized IBCs manufactured in Canada must be in accordance with sections 2 to 11 of standard CAN/CGSB-41.146 “Design, Manufacture and Use of Intermediate Bulk Containers for the Transportation of Dangerous Goods”.

Q2. When are UN standardized IBCs required?

A2. UN standardized IBCs are one of the permitted means of containement for certain Class 3, 4, 5, 6.1, 8 or 9 dangerous goods, as specified in sections 5.12 and 5.14 of the TDG Regulations.

Q3. How do I identify a UN standardized IBC?

A3. A UN standardized IBC will have a UN marking displayed on it that meet the marking requirements set out in section 5 of CAN/CGSB-43.146. The marking will be durable, legible, readily visible and at least 12 mm in height. On a composite IBC, the marking will be displayed on the outer casing. The following is an example UN IBC marking:

31HA1 / Y / 06 04 CAN / ABC 4-001 / 5500 / 1500
The UN symbol. For embossed metal packagings, the letters “UN” may be displayed instead.

1. The IBC code.
2. The packing group for which the IBC design has been tested:
   X – acceptable for Packing Groups I, II and III dangerous goods
   Y – acceptable for Packing Groups II and III dangerous goods only
   Z – acceptable for Packing Group III dangerous goods only
3. The month, designated numerically, and last two digits of year of manufacture.
4. The country code for the country authorizing the allocation of the mark.
5. The name or symbol of the manufacturer and the Transport Canada Certificate of Registration number.
6. The stack test load (in kg) or ‘0′ if the IBC is not designed for stacking.
7. The maximum permissible gross mass (kg).