What 172.402G-HML means in plain language
172.402G-HML is a hazardous materials regulation that addresses specific packaging and containment requirements. This code enforces standards for how hazmat must be prepared, contained, or secured to prevent leakage, spillage, or exposure during transport. The regulation exists to ensure that whatever hazardous material you're carrying stays safely inside its container and doesn't pose a risk to you, the public, or the environment.
If you were cited for this code, an inspector found that your hazmat shipment's packaging, closure, or securing method did not meet federal standards. This could involve a container that wasn't properly sealed, packaging that showed damage or degradation, or a load configuration that didn't adequately protect the hazmat from shifting or leaking during transit.
What our enforcement data actually shows
Across 13 million inspections in our database, 172.402G-HML is one of the least-cited hazmat packaging codes. We have recorded only 1 citation all-time, with 1 citation in the last 12 months and 0 citations in the last 90 days. This ranks 172.402G-HML at #2796 out of 3,036 FMCSR codes by citation volume.
The single citation on record did not result in an out-of-service order, yielding a 0.0% OOS rate for this code. For context, the all-FMCSR average OOS rate is 31.4%, meaning this code's citations are far less likely to trigger immediate removal from service compared to the typical violation. However, rarity does not mean insignificance—hazmat violations carry high stakes when they do occur.
Who gets cited most
Our inspection records show that Kansas Asphalt LLC (USDOT 1847627) had 1 citation for this code. The vehicles cited were Ford models. Because the all-time citation count for this code is extremely low, geographic and carrier patterns are minimal and should not be over-interpreted as risk indicators.
How severe is this compared to similar codes
Hazmat packaging and loading violations vary significantly in enforcement frequency and severity. Our data shows that 177.834A-HMC (general loading/unloading hazmat) has generated 3,954 citations with a 99.2% OOS rate—orders of magnitude more frequent and nearly always resulting in out-of-service placement. Similarly, 177.834(a) shows 3,839 citations at a 97.9% OOS rate. By contrast, 172.502(a)(1) (placarding general requirements) recorded 1,820 citations at an 18.5% OOS rate, and 172.602(c)(1) (maintenance/accessibility of Emergency Response information) shows 1,464 citations with 0.0% OOS rate.
172.402G-HML's rarity in our records suggests that either compliance with this specific packaging standard is widespread among carriers, or inspectors apply other hazmat codes more commonly. Either way, your citation places you in a small enforcement cohort.
How to avoid it
Since 172.402G-HML addresses packaging integrity and containment, take these concrete steps before and during every hazmat load:
- Inspect all containers visually before loading. Look for cracks, leaks, corrosion, dents, or any sign that the hazmat might escape. Do not load a container that shows damage.
- Verify that all closures (caps, plugs, valves, bungs) are tight and secure. Use a wrench or appropriate tool; hand-tight is not enough for many hazmat shipments. Check the shipping papers for specific closure requirements.
- Confirm that the packaging material matches the hazmat class. Some materials react with certain chemicals. If you're unsure whether a glass, plastic, or metal container is compatible with the load, ask the shipper or refuse the load.
- Secure the load against shifting. Use blocking, bracing, straps, or nets as needed so containers cannot roll or slide during acceleration, braking, or turns. Shifting can damage seals and cause leaks.
- Keep hazmat away from incompatible freight. Even if your packaging is perfect, proximity to corrosive materials, extreme heat, or sharp objects can compromise it over time.
- Document the condition of hazmat packaging before departure. If an inspector later finds damage, you want evidence that the container was intact when you loaded it.
- When in doubt, contact your dispatcher or the shipper. A five-minute clarification call is far better than a citation and potential liability if hazmat leaks.