Packages when not kept in correct orientation may result in content escaping which may then run into dangerous situations during transport.

Packages are often marked with handling instructions in the language of the country of origin. While this may safeguard the consignment to some extent, it is of little value for goods consigned to, or through, countries using different languages, and of no value at all if people handling the packages are illiterate.

Pictorial symbols offer the best possibility of conveying the consignor’s intention and their adoption will, therefore, undoubtedly reduce loss and damage through incorrect handling.

The use of pictorial symbols does not provide any guarantee of satisfactory handling; proper protective packaging is therefore of primary importance.

Annex 7 Appendix 1 of CTU Code

IMDG Code require packagings to display orientation arrows for

• Combination packagings having inner packagings containing liquid dangerous goods;
• Single packagings fitted with vents;
• cryogenic receptacles intended for the transport of refrigerated liquefied gases;
• Machinery or apparatus containing liquid dangerous goods when it is required to ensure the liquid dangerous goods remain in their intended orientation.
  

Orientation arrows must be legibly marked and must appear on two opposite vertical sides of the package with the arrows pointing in the correct upright direction. Must be rectangular and of a size that is clearly visible commensurate with the size of the package.

Orientation arrows must be Two black or red arrows on white or suitable contrasting background, the rectangular border is optional.

Orientation arrows must be as shown in 5.2.1.7.1 of IMDG Code or those meeting ISO standard ISO 780:1997

Orientation arrows must not be displayed on dangerous goods packages for any purpose other than indicating proper package orientation.

Orientation arrows are not required for

•  Outer packagings containing pressure receptacles except cryogenic receptacles;
•  Outer packagings containing dangerous goods in inner packagings each containing not more than 120 mL, with sufficient absorbent material between the inner and outer packagings to completely absorb the liquid contents;
•  Outer packagings containing Division 6.2 infectious substances in primary receptacles each containing not more than 50 mL;
•  Type IP-2, type IP-3, type A, type B(U), type B(M) or type C packages containing class 7 radioactive material;
•  Outer packagings containing articles which are leak-tight in all orientations (e.g. alcohol or mercury in thermometers, aerosols, etc.); or
• Outer packagings containing dangerous goods in hermetically sealed inner packagings each containing not more than 500 mL.