Dangerous goods are substances, mixtures or articles that, because of their physical, chemical (physicochemical) or acute toxicity properties, present an immediate hazard to people, property or the environment. Types of substances classified as dangerous goods include explosives, flammable liquids and gases, corrosives, chemically reactive or acutely (highly) toxic substances.
The criteria used to determine whether substances are classified as dangerous goods are contained in the Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road and Rail (ADG Code). The ADG Code contains a list of substances classified as dangerous goods.
State and territory workplace dangerous goods storage and handling laws also capture combustible liquids. The criteria for classifying combustible liquids are contained in Australian Standard AS1940 (The Storage and Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids).