(Question on UN1327 Hay and Straw.)
Q.
UN1327 Hay and Straw are forbidden for air transport per DGR but SP A2/SP A198 set out procedures on transport. SP A198 states “Hay, straw and bhusa, when not wet, damp or contaminated with oil are not subject to these Regulations.” If hay or straw is wet or damp, it would be less flammable than dry hay and straw. I fail to understand why dry hay would be less dangerous than wet hay. Would wet hay nest some bacteria that may cause heat from fermentation? Kindly clarify.  (31 May 19)
A.
Hay and Straw must be fully dried when bailed and kept dry in storage. If hay is bailed while too moist or becomes wet while in storage, there is a significant risk of spontaneous combustion. Hay stored outside must be stacked in such a way that moisture contact is minimal. On the other hand, care must be taken that hay and straw is never exposed to any possible source of heat or flame, as dry hay and dry straw and the dust they produce are highly flammable. After harvest, hay has to be stored in a manner to prevent it from getting wet. Mold and spoilage reduce nutritional value and may cause illness in animals. Note that wet or damp hay and straw possess a spontaneous combustible hazard.

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