Tyler Brooks
Amazon sellers often face the issue of their items, including candles, being labelled as hazardous materials or 'Hazmat'. This is a common issue, with some sellers reporting that their scented candles have been flagged as Hazmat, while others have had issues with perishable goods. While candles made purely of wax are not Hazmat, the addition of fragrances, colours, or gels can make them fall into the hazardous material category. This is due to their flammability, which also makes them a dangerous good. As a result, candle sellers are advised to refer to the SDS (Sections 2, 5, 14, and 15) and FBA Meltable Inventory requirements when shipping their products.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Are candles considered Hazmat? | Technically, candles made of wax are not considered Hazmat. |
| What makes candles Hazmat? | Fragrance, colour, or gel added to the wax can make candles fall into the hazardous material category. |
| Do candles need a suffocation label? | Yes, candles need a suffocation label if the bag has an opening of six inches or larger. |
| Do scented candles go through Hazmat review on Amazon? | Yes, some scented candles have come up as Hazmat on Amazon. |
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What You'll Learn
Scented candles may be classed as hazardous materials
Scented candles are popular for setting a tranquil and soothing mood and are used by many to promote healing and alleviate psychological discomfort. However, scented candles may be classed as hazardous materials due to the release of harmful chemicals and pollutants that can negatively impact human health and the environment.
Candles made from paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum, can emit toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when burned, including known carcinogens such as benzene, toluene, and naphthalene. These compounds are associated with breathing problems, lung cancer, and skin issues. Even when unlit, scented candles can release harmful chemicals into the air, and the fragrance oils used can soften the wax, causing non-cored wicks to become limp and release trace amounts of heavy metals when burned. The soot produced by scented candles can contain high levels of microparticles, comparable to diesel engine exhaust, which are linked to an increased risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular problems.
Additionally, the dyes and artificial scents in scented candles can release various chemicals when burned, and the use of synthetic fragrances and dyes can result in the emission of dangerous VOCs even at room temperature. The quality of scented candles is also a concern, with low-quality candles made from paraffin or artificial materials potentially posing greater health risks. The burning of scented candles can contribute to indoor air pollution, with studies showing an increase in harmful gases such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide, as well as pollutants like formaldehyde, CO2, and VOCs.
To reduce the potential hazards associated with scented candles, consumers are advised to opt for candles made from natural materials such as beeswax or soy wax, which burn cleaner and produce fewer microparticles. Scented candles made with essential oils rather than synthetic perfumes can also help minimise exposure to pollutants. Proper ventilation and airing of spaces after burning scented candles are also recommended to mitigate the risks associated with indoor air pollution.
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Suffocation labels are required on certain candle packaging
While candles are not typically considered Hazmat (hazardous materials), they are often classified as Dangerous Goods due to their flammability. However, if candles contain certain fragrances, colours, or gels, they may be classified as hazardous materials.
Regardless of whether a product is classified as Hazmat or not, certain types of packaging require a suffocation label. Poly bags with an opening of 5-6 inches or larger must have a suffocation warning, either printed on the bag or attached as a label. This requirement is in place to protect sellers from liability and ensure smooth operations within warehouses.
Amazon FBA requires sellers to use poly bags that are at least 1.5 mil thick, and all poly bags, regardless of thickness, must have a suffocation warning. This requirement is in line with various state and city regulations, which mandate that flexible film packaging with a thickness of 1 mil or less must carry suffocation warnings.
Therefore, if you are selling candles in packaging that meets the criteria for requiring a suffocation label, you must include one, even if your candles are not classified as Hazmat. It is important to adhere to these requirements to avoid any legal issues and to ensure the safe handling of your products.
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Flammability may cause candles to be classed as dangerous goods
Candles are primarily made of wax, which is non-hazardous and does not require classification. However, candles are flammable, and their flammability may cause them to be classed as dangerous goods. From a technical perspective, candles made of wax are not considered hazardous materials (Hazmat). However, most candles contain additives like fragrances, colours, or gels, which may make them fall into the hazardous materials category.
The flammability of candles, especially when combined with essential oils or additives for fragrance and colour at high concentrations, can lead to their classification as dangerous goods. This classification is important for storage and transportation considerations. While candles themselves may not meet the criteria for a flammability label, the danger of the open flame can be highlighted through non-statutory pictograms on labels.
The additives in candles can also pose health risks. Some candles contain polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which can cause indoor air pollution and related health issues. Manufacturers of scented candles should provide statements or images on their packaging to notify consumers about these potential dangers. Additionally, certain fragrances or sensitizing ingredients in candles can trigger labelling requirements. If a candle contains more than 0.1% of a specific sensitizing fragrance ingredient, the label should state, "Contains [name of fragrance/s]. May produce an allergic reaction." If the total concentration of sensitizing fragrance ingredients exceeds 1%, the label should include an exclamation point pictogram, the word "WARNING," and the statement, "May cause an allergic skin reaction," along with a list of ingredients.
It is important to refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) of the candles to determine their exact chemical composition and any associated hazards. Sections 2 (Hazard(s) Identification), 5 (Firefighting Measures), 14 (Transportation), and 15 (Regulatory Information) of the SDS are particularly relevant for understanding the potential dangers and regulatory requirements associated with the product.
While the classification of candles as hazardous materials depends on their specific composition, their flammability and the presence of certain additives can lead to their classification as dangerous goods. This classification has implications for labelling, storage, transportation, and regulatory compliance.
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The chemical composition of candles determines their Hazmat status
The classification of candles as hazardous materials, or Hazmat, depends on their chemical composition. While candles made purely of wax are typically not considered Hazmat, those containing additional elements like fragrance, colour, or gel may be classified as such. This is due to the potential presence of hazardous substances within these additives.
The exact chemical composition of a candle can be determined by referring to its Safety Data Sheet (SDS). This document outlines the specific hazards associated with a product, including fire hazards and regulatory information. By consulting the SDS, manufacturers and sellers can identify if their candles contain any substances that would classify them as Hazmat.
In the context of selling candles on Amazon, it is important to accurately determine their Hazmat status to ensure compliance with shipping and safety regulations. Amazon has specific requirements for the shipping and fulfilment of hazardous materials, including special transportation arrangements. Therefore, understanding the chemical composition of candles and their Hazmat status is crucial for safe and compliant sales and distribution.
Additionally, candles, regardless of their Hazmat status, may require specific labelling, such as suffocation labels, depending on their packaging. This is an important consideration for sellers to ensure they meet safety standards and regulatory requirements.
While candles made of wax may not inherently be Hazmat, their specific ingredients and additives can impact their classification. Therefore, it is essential to refer to the SDS and relevant regulations to determine if a candle is considered a hazardous material and to ensure compliance with applicable laws and safety standards.
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Gel candles are more likely to be classed as hazardous
While candles made purely of wax are not typically considered hazardous materials, or Hazmat, the addition of fragrance, colour, or gel can cause them to be classified as such. This is due to their increased flammability and the potential for the glass containers to shatter from the heat of the flame.
Gel candles, in particular, have been recalled due to their potential to burn with higher-than-normal flames, posing a fire hazard. In 1998, for example, S.C. Johnson & Son recalled 1.7 million gel candles from their Glade product line. These gel candles were found to burn with flames as high as 3 inches above the container, and consumers reported that the glass containers could crack or break while the candle was burning, posing a fire and laceration hazard.
The danger with gel candles lies in the effect of heat on their containers. If the material used to contain the gel is not sufficiently resilient, it can shatter as the concentrated heat of the flame compromises it. This can result in the hot gel flowing out, potentially causing dire burns. Therefore, it is important to let gel candles cool completely before moving them, and to never leave them burning unattended or within reach of children.
Due to the potential hazards associated with gel candles, they are more likely to be classified as hazardous materials, or Hazmat, when sold on Amazon or elsewhere. It is important for sellers to refer to the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) of their products and comply with any relevant regulations, such as the requirement for suffocation labels on certain types of packaging.
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Frequently asked questions
Technically, candles made of wax are not considered Hazmat. However, due to their flammability, they are likely to be classified as Dangerous Goods. Additionally, if they contain fragrances, colours, or gels, they may be considered hazardous materials.
The classification of a candle as Hazmat depends on its exact chemical composition. To determine this, refer to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) of the candle, specifically Sections 2 (Hazard(s) Identification), 5 (Firefighting Measures), 14 (Transportation), and 15 (Regulatory Information).
Yes, if you are shipping candles to Amazon for Fulfillment (FBA), you need to refer to the Meltable Inventory requirements. Additionally, a suffocation label is required on any bag with an opening of six inches or larger.
One challenge is that Amazon may identify candles as potentially hazardous materials or dangerous goods, requiring special transportation and return procedures. This can cause issues for sellers, especially if the candles are not actually Hazmat.
To ensure compliance when selling candles on Amazon, refer to their guidelines on hazardous materials and dangerous goods. Familiarize yourself with the SDS of your candles and any relevant regulations. Additionally, ensure that your packaging and labelling comply with Amazon's requirements, especially for Dangerous Goods.
