Class 6 Dangerous Goods Signs – Poisonous & Infectious Substances

class6 dangerous goods

Class 6 Dangerous Goods Signs – Poisonous & Infectious Substances

Class 6 Dangerous Goods Signs – Poisonous & Infectious Substances.

When it comes to workplace safety and compliance, few hazards carry as much risk as Class 6 dangerous goods. These substances are divided into two main categories: Class 6.1 (Toxic/Poison Substances) and Class 6.2 (Infectious Substances). Both can cause serious harm if not handled correctly, which is why proper signage is not only recommended but legally required under NZS 5433, HSNO Act, and international transport regulations.

In this guide, we’ll break down what each category covers, why signage matters, and how to ensure your site remains safe and compliant.

Need clear labelling? Explore our Class 6.1 Toxic Signs available in durable sticker, PVC, Corflute, and ACM options.

What Are Class 6.1 Poisonous Substances?

Class 6.1 substances are toxic materials that can cause injury, illness, or death when swallowed, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. Common examples include:

  • Pesticides and herbicides

  • Cyanides

  • Arsenic compounds

  • Certain industrial solvents

These substances don’t just present risks during transport—they can also endanger workers, visitors, and first responders if not clearly identified.

Signs required: The diamond-shaped Class 6.1 signs feature a skull and crossbones symbol with either “TOXIC” or “POISON” wording, depending on the product being transported. These signs must meet the minimum 250 mm size requirement for placards on transport vehicles, with larger sizes (400 mm – 800 mm) recommended for depots and storage facilities.

See our range of Class 6.1 Poison Signs designed to meet NZ and AU transport regulations.

What Are Class 6.2 Infectious Substances?

Class 6.2 substances cover materials that contain pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, or parasites which can cause disease in humans or animals. These are often found in:

  • Medical waste

  • Diagnostic specimens

  • Certain laboratory samples

Because of the public health risks, infectious substances require strict handling and labelling protocols.

Signs required: The Class 6.2 signs carry the well-recognised biohazard symbol in black on a white background. They serve as an immediate warning to staff, transport operators, and emergency crews that infectious materials are present and special precautions must be taken.

Standard vs Extended Class 6.2 Infectious Substance Signs

When it comes to Class 6.2 signage, there are two accepted variations depending on whether goods are being transported domestically or internationally:

  • Standard Infectious Substance Sign

    • Features the biohazard symbol and the wording “Infectious Substance”.

    • Commonly used for domestic NZ and AU transport (road, rail, and storage).

  • Extended Infectious Substance Sign

    • Includes the biohazard symbol plus the additional wording:
      “In case of damage or leakage immediately notify your public health authority.”

    • Required for international transport (air freight, sea freight) under IATA, IMDG, and UN3373/UN2814 regulations.

💡 At Hazard Signs NZ, we supply both variations, so you’re fully covered whether handling local logistics or shipping worldwide.

Looking for compliant Class 6.2 signage? Check out our Infectious Substance Signs available in both standard and extended versions.

Why Class 6 Signage Matters

Failing to properly display Class 6 signs can have serious consequences:

  • Legal compliance: Both New Zealand and Australian regulations (NZS 5433 & AS/NZS 1319:1994) require dangerous goods to be clearly labelled.

  • Workplace safety: Proper signs reduce the risk of accidental exposure or mishandling.

  • Emergency response: First responders rely on these signs to quickly assess risks and respond with the correct protective equipment and procedures.

In short, clear signage saves lives and keeps your business compliant.

Choosing the Right Class 6 Signs

When ordering Class 6 signage, consider:

  • Sizes: 250 mm is the minimum for transport placards; larger sizes (400–800 mm) improve visibility for fixed sites.

  • Materials: At Hazard Signs NZ, we supply laminated adhesive vinyl stickers, durable PVC, corflute, and ACM panels for indoor and outdoor use.

  • Wording options: Poison vs Toxic (6.1) or Infectious Substance (6.2) – all compliant versions are available.

Our signs are designed and manufactured in Invercargill, meeting both NZ and AU regulations, and built to withstand tough site conditions.

Where Should Class 6 Signs Be Used?

  • Transport vehicles: Trucks, tankers, and containers carrying toxic or infectious substances

  • Warehouses and depots: Storage of pesticides, poisons, or medical waste

  • Laboratories: Research facilities handling infectious materials

  • Hospitals and clinics: Storage and disposal areas for biohazard waste

If your site handles Class 6 dangerous goods, signage is not optional—it’s essential.

Final Thoughts

Class 6.1 and 6.2 dangerous goods signs play a critical role in protecting staff, visitors, and emergency responders. Whether it’s toxic chemicals or infectious waste, having clear, durable, and compliant signage helps reduce risks while ensuring your business meets legal requirements.

At Hazard Signs NZ, we make it easy to stay compliant with a full range of Class 6 signs in all required sizes and materials.

👉 Browse our full range of Class 6.1 Poison Signs and Class 6.2 Infectious Substance Signs today.

External Reference

For more detailed compliance requirements, visit WorkSafe NZ – Hazardous Substances.

Frequently Asked Questions about Class 6 Dangerous Goods

Q1: What are Class 6 dangerous goods?
Class 6 dangerous goods include toxic substances (6.1) and infectious substances (6.2). These materials can cause serious harm to humans and animals if not properly controlled, making signage a legal requirement.

Q2: What is the difference between Class 6.1 and Class 6.2 signs?

  • Class 6.1 signs (Toxic/Poison) identify substances that are poisonous if inhaled, swallowed, or absorbed.

  • Class 6.2 signs (Infectious Substances) identify materials that carry pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi that can cause disease.

Q3: What size Class 6 signs do I need?
For transport, signs must be at least 250 mm per side. Larger sizes (400 mm, 600 mm, 800 mm) are recommended for warehouses, depots, and outdoor storage where better visibility is needed.

Q4: Do Class 6 signs comply with NZ and Australian regulations?
Yes — our Class 6 signs comply with NZS 5433, HSNO Act, and AS/NZS 1319:1994, as well as UN transport codes. They are suitable for both New Zealand and Australian compliance requirements.

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