On March 20, 2025, the Chemical Safety Agency under South Korea’s Ministry of Environment released a draft of the Detailed Guidelines for Extended Inspection of Hazardous Chemical Transport Containers, mandating that expired containers undergo rigorous testing before reuse. The policy will take effect immediately upon finalization and undergo triennial reviews (by June 30 every three years) starting July 1, 2025.
Under the draft, expired hazardous chemical transport containers are prohibited from use in principle. If operators seek extended use, they must submit applications to designated institutions with technical documentation, including structural specifications, design files, import declaration certificates, and material certifications, and undergo tiered inspections. Standard extended inspections cover five basic checks: visual inspection, structural integrity, airtightness, labeling compliance, and auxiliary equipment functionality. Containers without prior inspection records must also undergo three additional tests: material performance, non-destructive testing, and internal pressure testing.
Technical requirements specify that containers must meet multiple safety criteria: material strength must pass formula-based verification, structural designs must eliminate leakage risks with dual sealing mechanisms at discharge ports, and inspections must include both pneumatic and hydrostatic pressure tests.
The guidelines apply to mainstream container materials such as metal and rigid plastic, targeting the transport of hazardous chemicals like toxic gases. While the new rules aim to elevate South Korea’s chemical logistics safety standards, they may raise costs for companies needing equipment upgrades. Industry stakeholders may submit feedback on the draft until April 11, 2025.
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