On a hazardous-material shipping paper, what does “RQ” beside the basic description indicate?
Correct answer: D – The package contains a hazardous substance at or above its reportable quantity
Federal hazardous-materials rules require the letters “RQ” before or after the basic shipping description for a hazardous substance meeting the reportable-quantity criteria. It identifies a quantity that carries specific release-notification requirements. A release equal to or exceeding the applicable reportable quantity generally requires immediate notification by the person in charge of the vehicle or other facility.
Source: Utah Commercial Driver License Handbook — § 9.3.3, “Lists of Regulated Products”, 49 CFR § 172.203(c)(2) – Additional Description Requirements, 40 CFR § 302.6(a) – Notification Requirements

