(a) This subpart prescribes requirements for Flexible Bulk Containers (FBCs) intended for the transportation of hazardous materials. FBC standards in this subpart are based on the UN Model Regulations.

(b) Terms used in this subpart are defined in § 171.8 of this subchapter.

The Flexible Bulk Container code designation is BK3.

(a) The manufacturer must:

(1) Mark every Flexible Bulk Container in a durable and clearly visible manner. The marking may be applied in a single line or in multiple lines provided the correct sequence is followed with the information required by this section. The following information is required in the sequence presented:

(i) Except as provided in § 178.503(e)(1)(ii), the United Nations packaging symbol as illustrated in § 178.503(e)(1)(i).

(ii) The code number designating the Flexible Bulk Container design type according to § 178.1005. The letter “W” must follow the Flexible Bulk Container design type identification code on a Flexible Bulk Container when the Flexible Bulk Container differs from the requirements in subpart R of this part, or is tested using methods other than those specified in this subpart, and is approved by the Associate Administrator in accordance with § 178.1035;

(iii) The capital letter Z identifying that the Flexible Bulk Container meets Packing Group III performance standard under which the design type has been successfully tested.

(iv) The month (designated numerically) and year (last two digits) of manufacture;

(v) The country authorizing the allocation of the mark. The letters “USA” indicate that the Flexible Bulk Container is manufactured and marked in the United States in compliance with the provisions of this subchapter.

(vi) The name and address or symbol of the manufacturer or the approval agency certifying compliance with subpart R and subpart S of this part. Symbols, if used, must be registered with the Associate Administrator.

(vii) The stacking test load in kilograms (kg). For Flexible Bulk Containers not designed for stacking the figure “0” must be shown.

(viii) The maximum permissible gross mass in kg.

(2) The following is an example of symbols and required markings for a Flexible Bulk container suitable for stacking; stacking load: 1,000 kg; maximum gross mass: 2,500 kg.

(b) [Reserved]

(a) Each Flexible Bulk Containers must be sift-proof and completely closed during transport to prevent the release of contents and waterproof.

(b) Parts of the Flexible Bulk Container that are in direct contact with hazardous materials:

(1) Must not be affected or significantly weakened by those hazardous materials.

(2) Must not cause a dangerous effect with the dangerous goods (e.g., catalyzing a reaction or reacting with the hazardous materials).

(3) Must not allow permeation of the hazardous materials that could constitute a danger under conditions normally incident to transportation.

(c) Filling and discharge devices must be so constructed as to be protected against damage during transport and handling. The filling and discharge devices must be capable of being secured against unintended opening.

(d) Slings of the Flexible Bulk Container, if fitted with such, must withstand pressure and dynamic forces which can be expected under conditions normally incident to transportation.

(e) Handling devices must be strong enough to withstand repeated use.

(f) A venting device must be fitted to Flexible Bulk Containers intended to transport hazardous materials that may develop dangerous accumulation of gases within the Flexible Bulk Container. Any venting device must be designed so that external foreign substances or the ingress of water are prevented from entering the Flexible Bulk Container through the venting device under conditions normally incident to transportation.

The use of Flexible Bulk Containers for the transport of hazardous materials is permitted for a period of time not to exceed two years from the date of manufacture of the Flexible Bulk Container.