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© Royal Mail 2013 Royal Mail is a trading name of Royal Mail Group Ltd. Registered number 4138203.

Proposals to amend the items listed under ‘Prohibitions’, ‘Restrictions’ in the United Kingdom Post Scheme

April 2013

A consultation document

Published: 16 April 2013 Responses required by: 5pm 15 May 2013

© Royal Mail 2013 – of 31

Purpose 1. Postal Schemes set out the terms and conditions for postal services for consumers and business

customers who use Royal Mail’s services but who do not hold an individual contract with Royal Mail. Customers who use stamps, on-line postage, or franking meters to pay for Royal Mail services do so under a Postal Scheme rather than a contractual arrangement. The Postal Schemes are available on Royal Mail’s website.

2. Making any amendments to these Postal Schemes has the effect of making new Postal

Schemes. Royal Mail makes Postal Schemes under Section 89 of the Postal Services Act 2000 (as amended) – ‘the Act’. Before making changes to the Schemes we formally consult customers and stakeholders.1

3. This document is our consultation regarding specific and general amendments that we, Royal

Mail, would like to make to our United Kingdom (UK) Post Scheme. 4. We have been in discussions with regulators for all modes of transport about the types of items

that can be carried in the post. As a result of these discussions we need to put additional controls in place at acceptance points into our network, and provide greater clarity for our customers on what can and cannot be accepted.

5. We propose to revise the sections currently called ‘PROHIBITIONS’ and ‘RESTRICTIONS’ of the

UK Post Scheme in order to reflect exemptions which have been granted to us by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), and authorisations made by the Department for Transport (DfT) and by the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) to allow us to carry certain common consumer items classified as Dangerous Goods, in the UK, providing customers comply with quantity, volume, packaging and labelling requirements. We also propose to set out how we may deal with or dispose of parcels containing compliant and/or non-compliant items.

6. In this consultation document we seek the views of interested stakeholders regarding our

proposals. We will evaluate feedback before we finalise our position and publish (in the London, Edinburgh & Belfast Gazettes) details of the amendments that will lead to the creation of the new Postal Scheme which will replace the current one.

1 Royal Mail is undertaking this consultation exercise in relation to proposed schemes in accordance with the requirements set by our regulator, Ofcom. Royal Mail also is required to notify Ofcom of the changes to the Scheme we are planning to make under Section 89A (1) of the Act. Ofcom do not approve the Schemes they do have the power under Section 89A of the Act to direct us to modify our Schemes.

http://www.royalmail.com/customer-service/terms-and-conditions/non-contract-terms-and-conditions


Background Dangerous goods 7. Transport legislation contains regulations for the transportation of dangerous goods by all

modes of transport. This legislation has the effect of prohibiting the carriage of almost all dangerous goods in the mail. All carriers of mail, including Royal Mail Group must comply with these regulations. Failure to comply with the legal requirements for the transport of dangerous goods can put the lives of our employees, our customers and the environment at risk.

8. Where dangerous goods are not carried in compliance with the requirements of the legislation,

the sender of prohibited dangerous goods and/or Royal Mail Group may be subject to prosecution. Customers, and the general public as a whole, are often unaware that items or substances may be classified as dangerous goods and, therefore, constitute a risk to health and safety.

9. Dangerous goods are defined as substances or articles that may present a danger to people,

property or the environment and meet the criteria of one or more of nine UN Hazard classes:

Class 1 - Explosives Class 2 - Gases

Division 2.1 Flammable gas Division 2.2 Non-flammable non toxic gas Division 2.3 Toxic gas

Class 3 - Flammable liquids Class 4 - Other flammables

Division 4.1 Flammable solids Division 4.2 Substances liable to spontaneous combustion Division 4.3 Substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases

Class 5 Division 5.1 Oxidising agents Division 5.2 Organic peroxides

Class 6 Division 6.1 Toxic substances Division 6.2 Infectious substances

Class 7 - Radioactive materials Class 8 - Corrosives Class 9 – Miscellaneous, including items such as asbestos, automotive airbags, lithium batteries and environmentally hazardous substances which don't fit into any of the other 8 classes

10. Legislation regulating the transportation of dangerous goods by each mode of transport is

derived from the United Nations Model Regulations for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods:

Air Transport - The International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) Technical Instructions (TIs) for the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air details how dangerous goods may safely be carried by air. The requirements apply to international and UK mail and in the UK are enforced by the Civil Aviation Authority under the Air Navigation Order.


Road Transport - The European Agreement Concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR) details how dangerous goods may be carried safely on UK roads. ADR is implemented in the UK by the Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations 2009 ("CDG 2009"), SI 2009 No 1348. These regulations are enforced by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Department of Transport. Rail Transport – The Regulations concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail (RID) detail how dangerous goods may be carried safely on the UK rail network. RID is also implemented in the UK through the Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations 2009 (“CDG 2009”). As a result, these regulations are also enforced by the HSE and the Department of Transport. Sea Transport - The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code details how dangerous goods may safely be carried by sea. The IMDG Code is brought into UK law through the Merchant Shipping (Dangerous Goods and Marine Pollutants) Regulations 1997 S.I. 2367. These Regulations are enforced by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

Royal Mail Group Prohibitions and Restrictions 11. In most instances the rules covering what can and cannot be sent by post relate directly to

transport regulations, but in some cases may be as a result of other UK legislation or Royal Mail policy decisions.

12. Royal Mail already restricts or prohibits dangerous goods from its network. To make the

applicable rules easier to follow, we list items which we cannot carry through our postal network in our Postal Schemes under ‘PROHIBITIONS’, and items which we cannot carry unless specific packaging, labelling, limited quantity and maximum volume rules are met under ‘RESTRICTIONS’. We categorise items as either being ‘PROHIBITED’ or ‘RESTRICTED’ in accordance with the relevant dangerous goods legislation.

13. Working closely with the relevant transport regulators (Civil Aviation Authority, Maritime &

Coastguard Agency and Department for Transport) to minimise the impact on our customers, Royal Mail Group has revised its Dangerous Goods policy to ensure that the rules covering what can and cannot be sent by post are met.

14. Our revised Dangerous Goods policy reflect exemptions which have been granted to us by the

Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), and authorisations made by the Department for Transport (DfT) and by the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) to allow us to carry certain common consumer items classified as Dangerous Goods, in the UK, providing customers comply with quantity, volume, packaging and labelling requirements.

15. These items include certain aerosols (for personal grooming and medicinal purposes), certain

alcoholic beverages (between 24% ABV and 70% ABV), lithium batteries, nail varnish and perfumes and aftershaves, which are all currently prohibited.

16. Without these exemptions and authorisations we would not be able to lawfully carry any of

these items in the UK post.

http://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2009/uksi_20091348_en_1


17. It is the responsibility of the sender to post items in a way which is compliant with the law, but it is the responsibility of Royal Mail to take reasonable steps to ensure that customers are aware of applicable ‘PROHIBITIONS’ and ‘RESTRICTIONS’ through its terms and conditions and Schemes, and also that communication, control and enforcement processes are in place for customers who do not post items in a compliant way.

18. Therefore, this consultation sets out amendments that we would like to make to the UK Post

Scheme to set out our minimum standards for the acceptance of these items as part of our revised Dangerous Goods policy and to provide transparent information for all, but particularly the senders of postal parcels in the UK posting items that may contain dangerous goods to addresses within the UK.

19. We are proposing to make changes to the UK Post Scheme to reflect our revised Dangerous

Good policy and the rules for what can and cannot be sent by post. It is intended that these changes will come into effect on 15th July 2013. The updated rules mean additional cost for Royal Mail itself as it puts in a range of controls to prevent prohibited goods entering our network.

Non compliant items 20. Where a customer posts a parcel containing a prohibited item or a restricted item which does

not comply with the relevant quantity, volume, packaging and labelling requirements, we reserve the right to deal with the parcel at our discretion without incurring any liability whatsoever to the sender or the addressee. This may include disposing of the parcel in whole or in part. The sender, or their representative, may be required to pay an amount (to be fixed by us) to cover the costs of dealing with or disposing of the non compliant item.

21. Where a compliant item is sent in a parcel which also contains a prohibited or restricted item

which does not comply with the relevant quantity, volume, packaging and labelling requirements, we will, at our discretion, return the compliant item to the sender. The sender, or their representative, may be required to pay an amount (to be fixed by us) to cover the costs of returning, dealing with or disposing of the compliant item.

22. At Annex A of this consultation, we set out proposed wording changes to ensure that the rules

for sending prohibited and restricted items - together with how we may deal with or dispose of parcels containing prohibited and restricted items - are clear.

23. At Annex B we set out a comparison between the existing wording in the sections of the UK

Post Scheme called ‘PROHIBITIONS’, and ‘RESTRICTIONS’ and some proposed new wording that seeks to provide greater clarity and transparency for senders of restricted goods. In particular, we propose to include clearer details of how to pack restricted goods against each restricted item, Customers are advised how the list may be updated in the future and where they can find the most up to date information. This also incorporates the new wording set out at Annex A.

24. At Annex C we set out the new wording for Part 1, Section 1 of the United Kingdom Post

Scheme required to make it clear that this is a new Scheme 25. These proposed amendments will bring us into line with transport regulations while also

making those sections more transparent, easier to read and more informative for customers.


26. On the 9 April 2013, we notified Ofcom of the proposed amendments we would like to make to the Schemes as required by Section 89 of The Postal Services Act 2000 (as amended).

27. The publication of this document initiates our consultation on our proposed new Postal

Schemes to obtain the views of stakeholders.

© Royal Mail 2013 Royal Mail is a trading name of Royal Mail Group Ltd. Registered number 4138203.

New Scheme proposal 28. We are proposing to re-write the two sections currently called ‘PROHIBITIONS’,

‘RESTRICTIONS’ of the United Kingdom Post Scheme in order to comply with transport regulations.

29. We are also taking the opportunity to add further wording to our ‘PROHIBITIONS’ and

‘RESTRICTIONS’ e.g. controlled drugs and living creatures, to provide clarity on what constitutes Dangerous or Prohibited Goods and what cannot be transported by post or can only be transported by post subject to certain rules. We also set out how we may deal with or dispose of parcels containing compliant and/or non-compliant items.

30. There are no further changes to the terms and conditions of the services that are covered by

the existing Scheme.

Consultation questions Questions

31. Please comment on whether you think Royal Mail’s proposals regarding ‘PROHIBITIONS’ and ‘RESTRICTIONS’ - together with our proposals on how we may deal with or dispose of parcels containing compliant and/or non-compliant items - are fair and reasonable. If the proposals are not considered to be fair and reasonable please explain why.

32. Please comment on whether the proposed new Scheme wording (Annex B), that sets out

what items Royal Mail is unable to accept (prohibited items) and what items Royal Mail is willing to accept if certain requirements (including packing) are met (restricted items), is sufficiently clear, fair & reasonable. If the proposed new Scheme wording is not considered to be clear, fair and reasonable please explain why.

33. Please comment on the wording required in Part 1, Section 1 of the United Kingdom Post

Scheme (Annex C). If you think changes are required, please explain why.

Timescales and next steps 34. Stakeholders are asked to submit answers to the questions set out above as soon as possible

and in any event before the deadline of 5pm on 15 May 2013. 35. Responses should be made by post or by email to: United Kingdom Letter Post Scheme Prohibitions and Restrictions Consultation Royal Mail 1st Floor, Rathbone Place, LONDON, W1T 1HQ [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


36. Please provide a completed cover sheet with your response. The cover sheet can be found in

Annex D. We may publish responses on our website. If you would like your response or parts of your response to remain confidential, please indicate this on the cover sheet.

37. Subject to the responses to this consultation, we propose to give at least one month’s notice

so that changes to the United Kingdom Post Scheme would take effect on 15th July 2013. The changes would take the form of a formal notification2 to Ofcom and Consumer Focus and publication of that notification on our website.

38. We will also publish details of the amendments in the London, Edinburgh & Belfast Gazettes

before they take effect.

39. We will make changes to other literature and websites to give as much publicity to these changes as we consider necessary.

2 Made under Designated Universal Service Provider (DUSP) Regulatory Condition 1.10


Annex A Specific proposed wording changes for the United Kingdom Post Scheme relating to the carriage of dangerous goods We propose to:

i. amend the alphabetical list of prohibited goods (section 5) under paragraph 5.3 which lists all prohibited items (see Annex B for specific wording)

ii. insert, after the alphabetical list of prohibited items, the following wording:

any item which resembles a prohibited item may be subject to additional scrutiny which may cause delays

any compensation claim for delay as a result of additional scrutiny is subject to the limits set out in Section 16 of the Scheme

failure to comply with these conditions could result in prosecution resulting in a fine or imprisonment

failure to comply with these conditions could affect your ability to claim compensation if you post an item that contains a prohibited item we may deal with such item in our

sole and absolute discretion (without incurring any liability whatsoever to you or the addressee) including disposing of the relevant item (in whole or in part)

the sender, or their representative, may be required to pay an amount (to be fixed by us) to cover the costs of returning, dealing with or disposing of the item

the sender is responsible for checking whether an item is prohibited. we reserve the right to refuse any other item banned by law or that in our opinion may

be harmful or dangerous to our customers or employees any article or substance classified as dangerous goods is prohibited (other than

specified in Restricted Goods below)

iii. amend the alphabetical list of restricted goods (section 5) under paragraph 5.7 which lists all restricted items (see Annex B for specific wording)

iv. insert, after the alphabetical list of restricted items, the following wording:

any item which resembles a restricted item may be subject to additional scrutiny which may cause delays

any compensation claim for delay as a result of additional scrutiny is subject to the limits set out in Section 16 of the Scheme

failure to comply with these conditions could result in prosecution resulting in a fine or imprisonment

failure to comply with these conditions could affect your ability to claim compensation if you post an item that contains a restricted item (and you do not comply with the

relevant restrictions or requirements) we may deal with such item in our sole and absolute discretion (without incurring any liability whatsoever to you or the addressee) including disposing of the relevant item (in whole or in part)

the sender, or their representative, may be required to pay an amount (to be fixed by us) to cover the costs of returning, dealing with or disposing of the item

the sender is responsible for checking whether an item is restricted. we reserve the right to refuse any other item banned by law or that in our opinion may

be harmful or dangerous to our customers or employees


any article or substance classified as dangerous goods is prohibited (other than specified in restricted goods above)

v. amend section 13, paragraph 13.2, to read as follows:

Subject to sections 5.3 and 5.7 above (which set out how we treat items that contain prohibited items and/or restricted items where the relevant restrictions or requirements have not been complied with), if an item is found not to meet the conditions set out in this Scheme or an item is found that indicates that insufficient (or no) postage and/or service fee has been paid for the service requested, we may decide at our discretion to do one of the follow things set out below within a reasonable period of time.

vi. amend section 13, paragraph 13.4 to read as follows:

In each case set out in sections 5.3, 5.7 and 13.2.4 to 13.2.7 we may additionally require you or your representative to pay an amount (to be fixed by us) to cover the costs of returning, dealing with or disposing of the item.

vii. amend section 15, paragraph 15.1, to read as follows:

Subject to sections 5.3 and 5.7, we will attempt to deliver items that meet the conditions for the relevant service set out in this Scheme.

viii. insert, under section 16 (Compensation), the following wording in reference to Prohibited

and Restricted items No compensation may be paid in respect of any letter or its contents if it contains

anything the posting of which is prohibited by or under any enactment of this Scheme No compensation may be paid in respect of any letter or its contents if it contains any

dangerous, hazardous or restricted items where the instructions have not been heeded and/or the terms and conditions of postage have not been met.


Annex B Proposed wording for the United Kingdom Letter Post Scheme relating to restricted & prohibited goods In table A we set out a comparison between the existing wording which appears in sections of the United Kingdom Post Scheme called ‘PROHIBITIONS’ and ‘RESTRICTIONS’ and some proposed new wording that seeks to provide greater clarity for senders of prohibited and restricted goods. Table A - A comparison between existing and proposed wording in the United Kingdom Post Scheme (prohibitions) Section Existing wording - Prohibitions Section Proposed wording3 - Prohibitions 5.3.1 aerosols 5.3.1 Aerosols containing toxic, flammable or non-flammable

compressed gas (including solvents, spray paints, air fresheners, polishes and other flammable or toxic materials)

5.3.2 liquids with alcohol content higher than 70 per cent 5.3.2 Alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content greater than 70% ABV 5.3.27 ammunition 5.3.3 Ammunition containing an explosive charge (excluding lead pellets

and other airgun and airsoft projectiles) 5.3.4 batteries that are classed as dangerous goods by the latest edition

of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Technical Instructions. More detail is available on our web site www.royalmail.com

5.3.4 Batteries that are classified as dangerous goods by the latest edition of the Technical Instructions for Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air published by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) including wet spillable lead acid/lead alkaline batteries (such as car batteries), lithium batteries when not sent with or in equipment, damaged batteries of any type, together with used alkaline and nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries

5.3.6 clinical and medical waste e.g. contaminated dressings, bandages and needles

5.3.5 Clinical and medical waste (e.g. contaminated dressings, bandages and needles)

5.3.10 drugs of any description, except those permitted as restricted items (see sections 5.5 and 5.7 below)

5.3.6 Controlled drugs and narcotics (such as cannabis, cocaine, and heroin. LSD, opium, and amyl nitrate).

5.3.8 corrosives 5.3.7 Corrosive substances which can cause severe damage to living

3 Royal Mail reserves the right to make small drafting changes if required from to text that is set out in this table.


Section Existing wording - Prohibitions Section Proposed wording3 - Prohibitions tissue, other freight or transport by its chemical action (including dyes, acids, corrosive paint and rust removers, caustic soda, mercury and gallium metal)

5.3.9 5.3.30

counterfeit money or counterfeit postage stamps any imitation of a bank note which is for the time being legal tender in the country of issue

5.3.8 Counterfeit currency, bank notes and postage stamps (including any false instrument or copy of a false instrument within the meaning of section 5 of the Forgery and Counterfeiting Act 1981) but excluding copies of old denominations or pre-decimalisation postage stamps which are now obsolete and worthless except for collectable value and cannot be passed as tender.

5.3.11 dry ice 5.3.9 Dry ice (UN1845) when used as a coolant for UN3373 or for other perishable items

5.3.10 Electronic items containing any batteries exceeding 100Wh (including some high performance laptops and power tools)

5.3.12 environmental waste e.g. used batteries and used engine oil 5.3.11 Environmental waste (including used batteries and used engine oil)

5.3.13 explosives 5.3.12 Explosives (including fireworks, flares, blasting caps, and Christmas cracker snaps)

5.3.15 flammable liquids or solids, 5.3.13 Flammable liquids (including petroleum, lighter fluid, certain adhesives, solvent based paints, wood varnish, enamels and acetones including nail varnish removers)

5.3.14 Flammable solids (including magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, sodium, zinc and fire lighters)

5.3.16 Lottery tickets (except for United Kingdom lottery tickets) 5.3.15 Foreign Lottery tickets 5.3.16 Frozen water e.g. packs of ice 5.3.7 flammable and non-flammable, toxic compressed gases 5.3.17 Gases including flammable, non-flammable, toxic and compressed

gases (including gas cylinders for camping stoves, butane, ethane, propane, fire extinguishers and scuba tanks)

5.3.18 Goods made in foreign prisons, except those imported for a non-commercial purpose, of a kind not manufactured in the United Kingdom, or those in transit

5.3.19 Human and animal remains (including ashes)


Section Existing wording - Prohibitions Section Proposed wording3 - Prohibitions 5.3.18 UN 2814 or UN 2900 Category A infectious substances e.g. Ebola,

Anthrax, Foot and Mouth disease as detailed in the latest edition of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Technical Instructions. More detail is available on our web site www.royalmail.com

5.3.20 Infectious substances and pathogens (UN2814 or UN2900) as classified in the latest Edition of the Technical Instructions for Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air published by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO)

5.3.5 butane lighters and refills 5.3.21 Lighters and refills containing flammable liquid or gas (including used butane and petrol cigar and cigarette lighters)

5.3.22 Living animals and reptiles e.g. snakes, mice and rodents 5.3.23 Live creatures, insects and invertebrates classified as dangerous

within the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 e.g. venomous spiders

5.3.16 lottery tickets (except for United Kingdom lottery tickets) DELETED 5.3.19 magnetised material with a magnetic field strength of

0.159A/metre or more at a distance of 2.1 metres from the outside of the package e.g. PA systems

5.3.24 Magnetised material with a magnetic field strength of 0.159A/metre or more at a distance of 2.1 metres from the outside of the package e.g. PA systems

5.3.20 matches 5.3.25 Matches (including safety matches) 5.3.17 indecent, obscene or offensive material 5.3.26 Obscene publications and unlawful indecent images (including

pornography as detailed in Part 5 of the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008 and indecent photographs or pseudo-photographs of a child as detailed in section 160 and 161 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988

5.3.21 oxidising materials or organic peroxides 5.3.27 Oxidising materials or organic peroxides (including disinfectants, nitrates, and hair dyes or colourants containing peroxide)

5.3.22 pesticides 5.3.28 Pesticides (including weed killer and any chemical used to kill pests and insects, including fly sprays)

5.3.23 5.3.24

toxic liquids, solids or gases poisons

5.3.29 Poisons, toxic liquids, solids and gases (including substances that are liable to cause death or injury if swallowed or inhaled or by skin contact such as arsenic, beryllium, cyanide, fluorine and rat poison)

5.3.25 all radioactive material and samples that are classified as radioactive using Table 2-12 of the latest edition of the

5.3.30 Radioactive material and samples that are classified as dangerous goods in the latest edition of the Technical Instructions for the


Section Existing wording - Prohibitions Section Proposed wording3 - Prohibitions International Civil Aviation Organization Technical Instructions. The full instructions are lengthy so are not re-produced on our website but are available directly from the ICAO

Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air published by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) such as luminous dials from aircraft

5.3.28 solvent-based paints, varnishes and enamels 5.3.31 Paints, wood varnishes and enamels - solvent-based (except nail varnish or nail polish with a volume of 30ml or less when sent to a UK destination)

5.3.29 water-based paints, varnishes and enamels in volumes greater than 150 millilitres

DELETED

5.3.14 filth 5.3.32 Waste, dirt, filth or refuse (including household waste) 5.3.26 weapons of war except as permitted by clause 5.7.14 below 5.3.33 Weapons (including CS gas and pepper sprays, flick knives, tasers

and stun guns) 5.3.31 any other item prohibited by law, by regulations or that in our

opinion we think may be harmful or dangerous or a risk to health and safety

5.3.34 Any other item prohibited by law, by regulations or that in our opinion we think may be harmful or dangerous or a risk to health and safety

Table B – A comparison between existing and proposed wording in the United Kingdom Post Scheme (restrictions) Section Existing wording -

Restrictions Section Proposed wording4 Restrictions Proposed wording5 Conditions Proposed wording6 Packaging

5.7.1 Aerosols for personal grooming or medicinal purposes (including deodorants, body sprays, hair sprays, shaving and hair removal creams, asthma inhalers, etc.)

Valves must be protected by a cap or other suitable means to prevent inadvertent release of the contents during transport. Aerosols must be tightly packed in strong outer packaging and must be secured or cushioned to prevent any damage. Volume per

An ID8000 label must be applied. The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

4 Royal Mail reserves the right to make small drafting changes if required from to text that is set out in this table. 5 Royal Mail reserves the right to make small drafting changes if required from to text that is set out in this table. 6 Royal Mail reserves the right to make small drafting changes if required from to text that is set out in this table.


Section Existing wording - Restrictions

Section Proposed wording4 Restrictions Proposed wording5 Conditions Proposed wording6 Packaging

item must not exceed 500 ml. No more than two aerosols can be sent in any one package.

5.7.1 liquids with an alcohol content lower than 70 per cent. These items must be wrapped in polythene and sealed with tape. Items must be surrounded with an absorbent material like sawdust or newspaper and packed in a leak proof container.

5.7.2 Alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content less than 24% ABV (e.g. wine and champagne)

Volume per item should not exceed 1 litre per container

Wrap in polythene and seal with tape. Surround with absorbent material such as newspaper and sufficient cushioning material to protect each item from breakage. Mark as "FRAGILE" when sending glass bottles. The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

5.7.3 Alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content between 24% ABV – 70% ABV (e.g. whisky, vodka, gin)

Volume per item should not exceed 1 litre per item. No more than two items to be sent in any one parcel.

The items must be securely closed and placed in a leak-proof liner, such as a sealed polythene bag. Surround with absorbent material and sufficient cushioning material to protect each item from breakage. Mark as ‘FRAGILE’ when sending glass bottles. The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.3.3 asbestos 5.7.4 Asbestos Samples of asbestos may be posted provided the sample is fixed within an inert material such as a glue or resin. Surround with cushioning material e.g. bubble wrap. The sender’s name and return address




must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.5 Balloons filled with non-flammable gas

Must be clearly marked on the outer packaging with the words ’BALLOONS FILLED WITH NON-FLAMMABLE GAS’.

5.7.2 batteries other than those that are prohibited items. These items can only be sent in their original retail packaging. They must be surrounded with cushioning material and placed in a suitable rigid outer container.

5.7.6 Batteries - new alkaline, nickel metal hydride (NiMH) or nickel cadmium (NiCd) including D, C, 9V, AA, AAA and AAAA alkaline batteries

Must be new and sent unopened in their original retail packaging. Surround with cushioning material e.g. bubble wrap.

The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.7 Batteries - lithium ion/polymer batteries sent with equipment (e.g. rechargeable batteries found in electronic devices)

The maximum number of batteries allowed in each package is the minimum number required to power the equipment plus two spares. The maximum net quantity of cells or batteries is 5kg per package. Watt-hour rating must not exceed 20Wh per cell or 100Wh per battery.

Cells or batteries that are defective for safety reasons, or that have been damaged, are forbidden. Cells and batteries must be protected against short circuit. Cells and batteries must be packed in inner packagings that completely enclose the cell or battery. Cells and batteries must be protected against short circuit, including protection against contact with conductive materials within the same packaging that could lead to a short circuit. The equipment sent with cells or batteries must be packed in strong




rigid packaging and must be secured against movement within the outer packaging and packed to prevent accidental activation. Lithium battery handling label to be applied. The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.8 Batteries - lithium ion/polymer batteries contained in equipment (e.g. rechargeable batteries found in electronic devices)

Each package must contain no more than four cells or two batteries installed in equipment. The maximum net quantity of cells or batteries is 5kg per package. Watt-hour rating must not exceed 20Wh per cell or 100Wh per battery

Cells or batteries that are defective for safety reasons, or that have been damaged, are forbidden. Cells and batteries must be protected against short circuit. Cells and batteries must be protected against short circuit. The equipment containing cells or batteries must be packed in strong rigid packaging and must be secured against movement within the outer packaging and packed to prevent accidental activation. The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.9 Batteries - lithium metal/alloy The maximum number of Cells or batteries that are defective




batteries sent with equipment (e.g. non-rechargeable batteries found in electronic devices)

batteries allowed in each package is the minimum number required to power the equipment plus two spares. The maximum net quantity of cells or batteries is 5kg per package. The lithium content must not be more than 1g per cell or 2g per battery.

for safety reasons, or that have been damaged, are forbidden. Cells and batteries must be protected against short circuit. Cells and batteries must be packed in inner packagings that completely enclose the cell or battery. Cells and batteries must be protected against short circuit, including protection against contact with conductive materials within the same packaging that could lead to a short circuit. The equipment sent with cells or batteries must be packed in strong rigid packaging and must be secured against movement within the outer packaging and packed to prevent accidental activation. Lithium battery handling label to be applied. The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.10 Batteries - lithium metal/alloy batteries contained in equipment (e.g. non-rechargeable batteries found in electronic devices)

Each package must contain no more than four cells or two batteries installed in equipment. The maximum net quantity of cells or batteries is 5kg per

Cells or batteries that are defective for safety reasons, or that have been damaged, are forbidden. Cells and batteries must be protected against short circuit.




package. The lithium content must not be more than 1g per cell or 2g per battery.

The equipment containing cells or batteries must be packed in strong rigid packaging and must be secured against movement within the outer packaging and packed to prevent accidental activation. The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.11 Batteries - new wet, non-spillable (e.g. sealed lead acid batteries, absorbed glass mat and gel cell batteries)

Batteries must comply with Special Provision 238 of the UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, Model Regulations (please check with the manufacturer or distributor). No more than one battery in any one package. Maximum weight 1.5kg.

Item must be protected against short circuit (by the effective insulation of exposed terminals) and securely packaged. Package must be marked “NOT RESTRICTED” and “SPA67 / SP238”. The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.5 Biological substances including diagnostic specimens e.g. blood and urine. Category B (UN3373) as classified by the latest edition of the International

5.7.12 Biological substances (Diagnostic specimens including blood and urine. Category B (UN3373) as classified in the latest edition of the Technical Instructions for Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air published by

May only be sent by, or at the specific request of, a qualified medical practitioner, registered dental practitioner, veterinary surgeon, registered nurse or a recognised laboratory or

All biological substances must be posted in packaging that complies with Packaging Instruction 650, such as our Safebox product. The sender’s name and return




Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Technical Instructions. The total volume/mass of the sample shall not exceed 50ml/50g. Diagnostic specimens can only be sent within the UK. These must be packed in a strong inner container with your name and address clearly marked on the outer packaging.

the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO))

institution. The total sample volume/mass in any parcel must not exceed 50ml/50g.

address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.13 Christmas crackers

Can only be sent in their made up form in their original retail packaging.


5.7.3 battery operated goods as long as they do not contain batteries that are prohibited items. These items can only be sent in their original retail packaging. They must be surrounded with cushioning material and placed in a suitable rigid outer container.

5.7.14 Electronic items sent with new alkaline, nickel metal hydride (NiMH) or nickel cadmium (NiCd) batteries

Must be new and sent unopened in their original retail packaging. Surround with sufficient cushioning material to protect each item from damage. Wrap each item, including plugs, individually. Place item in a rigid container and cushion to avoid movement.

Any equipment sent with batteries or cells must be secured against movement within the outer packaging and must be packed to prevent accidental activation. The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.15 Electronic items sent with new and used lithium ion/polymer batteries

The maximum number of batteries allowed in each package is the minimum number required to power the equipment plus two spares. The maximum net quantity of cells or batteries is

Cells or batteries that are defective for safety reasons, or that have been damaged, are forbidden. Cells and batteries must be protected against short circuit.




5kg per package. Watt-hour rating must not exceed 20Wh per cell or 100Wh per battery.

Cells and batteries must be packed in inner packagings that completely enclose the cell or battery. Cells and batteries must be protected against short circuit, including protection against contact with conductive materials within the same packaging that could lead to a short circuit. The equipment sent with cells or batteries must be packed in strong rigid packaging and must be secured against movement within the outer packaging and packed to prevent accidental activation. Lithium battery handling label to be applied. The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.16 Electronic items sent with new and used lithium ion/polymer batteries contained in the device

Each package must contain no more than four cells or two batteries installed in equipment. The maximum net quantity of cells or batteries is 5kg per package. Watt-hour rating must not exceed 20Wh per cell or 100Wh per battery

Cells or batteries that are defective for safety reasons, or that have been damaged, are forbidden. Cells and batteries must be protected against short circuit. Cells and batteries must be protected against short circuit. The equipment containing cells or




batteries must be packed in strong rigid packaging and must be secured against movement within the outer packaging and packed to prevent accidental activation. The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.17 Electronic items sent with new and used lithium metal/alloy batteries

The maximum number of batteries allowed in each package is the minimum number required to power the equipment plus two spares. The maximum net quantity of cells or batteries is 5kg per package. The lithium content must not be more than 1g per cell or 2g per battery.

Cells or batteries that are defective for safety reasons, or that have been damaged, are forbidden. Cells and batteries must be protected against short circuit. Cells and batteries must be packed in inner packagings that completely enclose the cell or battery. Cells and batteries must be protected against short circuit, including protection against contact with conductive materials within the same packaging that could lead to a short circuit. The equipment sent with cells or batteries must be packed in strong rigid packaging and must be secured against movement within the outer packaging and packed to prevent accidental activation.




Lithium battery handling label to be applied. The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.18 Electronic items sent with new and used lithium metal/alloy batteries contained in the device

Each package must contain no more than four cells or two batteries installed in equipment. The maximum net quantity of cells or batteries is 5kg per package. The lithium content must not be more than 1g per cell or 2g per battery.

Cells or batteries that are defective for safety reasons, or that have been damaged, are forbidden. Cells and batteries must be protected against short circuit. The equipment containing cells or batteries must be packed in strong rigid packaging and must be secured against movement within the outer packaging and packed to prevent accidental activation. The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.14 guns for sporting use 5.7.19 Guns for sporting use (Guns intended for sporting purposes - including Section 1 and Section 2 firearms, low-powered air guns and their component parts - may be sent in compliance with UK law subject to any applicable controls on the possession of firearms.

Use 1st Class as the minimum service.

The sender’s name and address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.




5.7.20 Lighters (new and unused empty lighters)

Must be new, empty and sent unopened in their original retail packaging.

A sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.21 Liquids over 1 litre (containing liquids not classified as dangerous goods)

Some liquids, such as alcohol or paints, have their own additional restrictions. The items must be securely closed and placed in a leak-proof liner, such as a sealed polythene bag, so that any inadvertent leakage is contained within the outer packaging Surround with absorbent material such as newspaper and sufficient cushioning material to protect each item from damage.

Mark as “FRAGILE” when sending glass bottles. The sender’s name and address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.6 living creatures must be packaged using boxes that protect both the creatures and our staff from harm. Items must be sent using First Class as a minimum service speed but Special Delivery is recommended. Items must be clearly labelled as "URGENT - LIVING CREATURES". Your name and address must be marked on the outer packaging.

5.7.22 Live creatures, insects and invertebrates (including bees, caterpillars, cockroaches, crickets, destroyers of noxious pests, earthworms, fish fry and eggs, leeches and other parasites, lugworms, maggots, mealworms, pupae and chrysalides, rag worms, silkworms, spiders and stick insects)

Must be boxed and packaged to protect the creatures, our staff and our customers from harm. Use 1st Class as the minimum service.

Items must be clearly marked ‘URGENT – LIVING CREATURES - HANDLE WITH CARE’. The sender’s name and address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.23 Lottery tickets UK lottery tickets are allowed in the domestic post.




5.7.7 magnetised materials that are not prohibited items. Items must be fully wrapped in cushioning material at least 2cm thick. Your name and address must be clearly marked on the outer packaging. Items should be sent individually as they can damage other items they travel with, i.e. discs, tapes, etc.

5.7.24 Magnetised materials, other than those that are prohibited (including loud speakers)

The magnetised material must have a magnetic field strength of less than 0.159A/m at a distance of 2.1m from the outside of the package

Wrap soft packing material at least 2cm thick around each item. The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

5.7.25 Nail varnish and polish Volume per item must not exceed 30ml. No more than four bottles of nail varnish can be sent in any one package. Bottles of nail varnish must be placed in strong outer packaging and be so packed, secured or cushioned in such a way that they cannot break, be punctured or leak their contents into the outer packaging.

An ID8000 label must be applied (see page 40). The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.8 water-based paints, varnishes and enamels in volumes of less than 150 millilitres. Items must be surrounded with cushioning material and placed in a rigid container.

5.7.26 Paints, wood stains and enamels - water-based

The items must be securely closed and placed in a leak-proof liner, such as a sealed polythene bag, so that any inadvertent leakage is contained within the outer packaging. No more than four items can be sent in any one





package. Surround with absorbent material such as newspaper and sufficient cushioning material to protect each item from damage. Volume per item should not exceed 150ml.

5.7.27 Perfume and aftershave (including eau de parfum and eau de toilette but excluding non-flammable perfumed creams, gels, oils or lotions)

Volume per item must not exceed 150ml. No more than four perfumes or aftershaves can be sent in any one package. The perfume or aftershave must be within its original retail packaging and then placed in strong outer packaging. The inner packagings must be packed, secured or cushioned to prevent breakage or leakage of their contents into the outer packaging.

An ID8000 label must be applied. The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.

5.7.9 perishable goods. Items must be sent using the First Class service as a minimum service speed. Any item that contains something that is likely to perish or decay must be clearly and legibly marked with the words ‘PERISHABLE’ in capital letters above the address on the packaging.

5.7.28 Perishables (including flowers, fresh fruit, vegetables and frozen or chilled foodstuffs)

Should be able to withstand a journey of up to 48 hours. Use 1st Class as the minimum service. Must be suitably sealed to prevent leakage or tainting of other items such as in sealed vacuum packs. Must be packed in a strong corrugated board box or purpose designed polystyrene pack.





5.7.4 drugs sent in emergencies for medical or scientific purposes. These must be packed in a strong inner container with your name and address clearly marked on the outer packaging.

5.7.29 Prescription medicines and drugs sent for scientific or medical purposes (non-toxic and non-flammable)

May only be sent by, or at the specific request of, a qualified medical practitioner, registered dental practitioner, veterinary surgeon, registered nurse or a recognised laboratory or institution. The medicines must be securely closed and placed in a leak-proof container such as a sealed polythene bag (for liquids) or a siftproof container (for solids). Must be tightly packed in strong outer packaging and must be secured or cushioned to prevent any damage.

The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

5.7.13 over the counter medicines and prescription medicines (including but not limited to inhalers of a volume of 50ml or less), provided these are being supplied lawfully and subject to such items being sent in suitable tamper proof or similar packaging and must be sent by Special Delivery™ or by a service to which Recorded Signed For™ has been added only.

5.7.30 Prescription medicines and drugs sent for scientific or medical purposes (toxic, flammable or toxic and flammable)

May only be sent by, or at the specific request of, a qualified medical practitioner, registered dental practitioner, veterinary surgeon, registered nurse or a recognised laboratory or institution. Volume/mass per item must not exceed 50ml/50g. No more than eight items can be sent in any one parcel. The medicines must be securely closed and placed in a leak-proof container such as a sealed polythene bag (for liquids) or a sift-proof container (for solids).

ID8000 label must be applied. The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging.




Must be tightly packed in strong outer packaging and must be secured or cushioned to prevent any damage.

5.7.10 all radioactive material and samples that are not classified as radioactive using Tables 2-12 of the latest edition of the International Civil Aviation Organization’s Technical Instructions; No specific additional packaging guidelines are required.

5.7.31 Radioactive material and samples that are not classified as dangerous goods in the latest edition of the Safe Transport of Dangerous Goods by Air published by the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s Technical Instructions (ICAO) e.g. samples of granite rock

Surround with cushioning material e.g. bubble wrap. The sender’s name and return address must be clearly visible on the outer packaging

5.7.32 Sharp objects and instruments (including scissors, kitchen knives and utensils)

Wrap heavy cardboard around sharp edges and points, strong enough to ensure that the contents do not pierce the outer packaging. Wrap each item with cushioning material. Place in a suitable outer container such as a padded envelope.


5.7.11 vaccines. Items must be tightly packaged together with strong outer packaging with a return address clearly marked on the packaging.

5.7.33 Vaccines that are not classified as dangerous goods

May only be sent by, or at the specific request of, a qualified medical practitioner, registered dental practitioner, veterinary surgeon, registered nurse or a recognised laboratory or institution. The vaccines must be securely closed and placed in a leak-proof liner such as a





sealed polythene bag (for liquids) or a sift-proof container (for solids). Must be tightly packed in strong outer packaging and must be secured or cushioned to prevent any damage.

5.7.12 Valuables can only be sent using the Special Delivery™ service

5.7.34 Valuables can only be sent using the Special Delivery™ service

5.7.15 Any other item that must be restricted by law, by regulations or that in our opinion may be harmful or dangerous or a risk to health and safety

5.7.35 Any other item that must be restricted by law, by regulations or that in our opinion may be harmful or dangerous or a risk to health and safety

Annex C Proposed new wording of Paragraph 1 of the United Kingdom Post Scheme We propose to replace Paragraph 1 (ABOUT THIS SCHEME) with the wording7 set out below. 1. ABOUT THIS SCHEME

1.1 This Scheme is a document that sets out the terms & conditions for some of the items that

we handle. We (Royal Mail Group Ltd) are allowed to set out terms and conditions within a Scheme document by the Postal Services Act 2000 (and more specifically section 89 of that Act as amended by the Postal Services Act 2011 and in particular paragraph 24 of Schedule 12 of that Act).

1.2 Each time we alter the wording within a Scheme it has the effect of making a new Scheme.

We publish our Schemes on our website (www.royalmail.com). 1.3 This Scheme is known as ‘The Royal Mail United Kingdom Post Scheme 15th July 2013’ and

is referred to in this document as ‘this Scheme’. The date in the title is the date that the Scheme took (or will take) effect. This Scheme replaced the old Scheme which was called The Royal Mail United Kingdom Post Scheme 1st January 2013’. This old Scheme is no longer in force.

7 Royal Mail reserves the right to make small drafting changes if required from to text that is set out in this section.

http://www.royalmail.com/

Annex DCover sheet for response to a Royal Mail consultation

BASIC DETAILS

Consultation title: Scheme proposals to amend the items listed under ‘Prohibitions’ and ‘Restrictions’

To (Royal Mail contact): [email protected] Name of respondent: Representing (self or organisation/s):

Address (if not received by email):

CONFIDENTIALITY

Please tick below what (if any) part of your response you consider is confidential, giving your reasons why

Nothing Name/contact details/job title

Whole response Organisation

Part of the response If there is no separate confidential annex, which parts?

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

If you want part of your response, your name or your organisation not to be published, can Royal Mail still publish a reference to the contents of your response (including, for any confidential parts, a general summary that does not disclose the specific information or enable you to be identified)? As above we need to amend this if we are not going to publish

YES/NO (please delete as appropriate)

DECLARATION

I confirm that the correspondence supplied with this cover sheet is a formal consultation response that Royal Mail can publish. However, in supplying this response, I understand that Royal Mail may need to publish all responses, including those which are marked as confidential, in order to meet legal obligations. If I have sent my response by email, Royal Mail can disregard any standard e-mail text about not disclosing email contents and attachments.

Name Signed (if hard copy) Date:

mailto:[email protected]

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