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Hazmat question

What's the difference between Hazmat Table 1 and Table 2?

This phrase actually refers to two different things depending on context. Inside Appendix A (the Reportable Quantity list), Table 1 covers regular chemicals and waste codes in pounds/kilograms, and Table 2 covers radionuclides in curies/terabecquerels. Separately, inside §172.504 (placarding rules), Table 1 and Table 2 refer to placarding thresholds — Table 1 materials need a placard at any quantity, Table 2 materials only at 1,001 lb or more. Same names, two unrelated tables.

Answer
This phrase actually refers to two different things depending on context. Inside Appendix A (the Reportable Quantity list), Table 1 covers regular chemicals and waste codes in pounds/kilograms, and Table 2 covers radionuclides in curies/terabecquerels. Separately, inside §172.504 (placarding rules), Table 1 and Table 2 refer to placarding thresholds — Table 1 materials need a placard at any quantity, Table 2 materials only at 1,001 lb or more. Same names, two unrelated tables.

Why people ask this

This is one of the most common points of confusion in the whole regulation — two completely different rules reuse the same "Table 1 / Table 2" naming convention.

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Related

Reportable Quantity vs. Hazard Class →

Table 1 vs Table 2 Placarding (poster) →

Reference basis: 49 CFR Parts 172 and 177, and PHMSA hazmat guidance. Verify current requirements for the specific shipment.