South Korea Releases Guidelines for Extended Inspection of Hazardous Chemical Transport Containers

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. Industry stakeholders can submit feedback on the draft until April 11, 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.

About CIRS

CIRS Group is a leading provider of comprehensive regulatory compliance services and solutions for chemicals, cosmetics, food and food-related products, agrochemicals, and medical devices. Its chemical team consists of experts with extensive knowledge in chemistry, toxicology, environmental science, and related fields. They are well-versed in various international regulations, including but not limited to CSCL, EU REACH, CLP, GHS, TSCA, and K-REACH. 

CIRS operates a subsidiary in South Korea. By leveraging the expertise of CIRS Korea and the international team, CIRS can provide enterprise various South Korean chemical services, including but not limited to:

• K-REACH resigstration;
• Form 25/26 preparation;
• K-BPR compliance; and
• KOSHA SDS submission.

If you need any assistance or have any questions, please get in touch with us via service@cirs-group.com.

Further Information

MOE