If a hazmat package label is illegible or missing, what should you do?

• A. Do not transport; replace the label with a legible one and verify the material’s hazard.
• B. Proceed with transport and hope for the best.
• C. Replace the label with an unrelated hazard label.
• D. Ignore and continue.

Answer: (A)

Labels are the primary way hazmat handlers and emergency responders know what’s inside a package and how to handle it safely. When a hazmat label is illegible or missing, you must not transport the package until it’s corrected. Replace the label with a legible, durable one that accurately shows the material’s hazard class, proper shipping name, and identification number, and verify the hazard against the shipping papers and the safety data available. This ensures proper handling, segregation, and readiness for any emergency. The other options would misrepresent the material or bypass safety rules, creating serious risk.