Hazard Class 6 — Toxic & Infectious Substances
Substances harmful to humans through ingestion, inhalation or skin contact, and pathogens.
Overview
Division 6.1 covers substances classified as toxic by ingestion, inhalation or skin contact, with packing groups based on LD50 / LC50 thresholds. Division 6.2 covers infectious substances — Category A (UN2814 / UN2900) for pathogens capable of causing serious disease, and Category B (UN3373) for diagnostic and clinical specimens.
Divisions within Class 6
| Division | Description |
|---|---|
| 6.1 | Toxic substances |
| 6.2 | Infectious substances |
Aviation context
Aviation MRO encounters Class 6.1 mainly through biocides (water-tank treatments), some specialised cleaning agents, and certain pest-control products carried in cabin servicing kits. Category B medical samples (UN3373) appear in cabin-medical waste handling at some operators.
Typical UN numbers in aviation MRO
| UN Number | Proper Shipping Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| UN2810 | Toxic liquid, organic, n.o.s. (6.1) | Generic entry — PG depends on toxicity |
| UN2814 | Infectious substance, affecting humans (Category A) | Strict handling and packaging |
| UN2900 | Infectious substance, affecting animals (Category A) | Veterinary diagnostic context |
| UN3373 | Biological substance, Category B | Diagnostic specimens |
Packaging and marking essentials
- Category A infectious substances require triple-packaging that has passed the rigorous 9 m drop test and a pressure differential test.
- Category B substances are packaged under PI650 with specific inner / outer / absorbent requirements.
- Class 6.1 packing instructions follow the packing group, with PG I requiring the most robust packagings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Category A and Category B infectious substances?
Category A pathogens (UN2814 / UN2900) are capable of causing permanent disability or life-threatening / fatal disease in humans or animals and have very strict packaging and operator approval rules. Category B (UN3373) covers diagnostic and clinical specimens that do not meet Category A criteria, with lighter PI650 packaging.
Are aircraft potable-water biocides Class 6.1?
Some are. The SDS Section 14 will state the classification. Many concentrated biocides are PG II or III Class 6.1, sometimes with Class 8 subsidiary risk; diluted ready-to-use products may fall outside the DG scope. Do not assume — read the SDS.
Need to classify a specific part?
DG Copilot identifies the UN number, hazard class and air transport status from a part number — in seconds.
Other hazard classes
This information is provided for guidance only. Always verify against the current IATA DGR edition. Final classification and DGD must be validated by a certified DG specialist.