What are the rules for transporting dangerous goods by road?

Transporting dangerous goods by road is a critical task that requires strict adherence to safety regulations to protect drivers, the public, and the environment because a crash and subsequent spill of a dangerous good can cause injury or even death. The UK has established comprehensive guidelines to ensure that these materials are moved safely and efficiently, and this is an overview of the key points truck drivers need to know.

1. Understanding Dangerous Goods

Dangerous goods are substances that pose risks to health, safety, property, or the environment. These are divided into 9 classes that include explosives, gases, flammable liquids, solids, oxidizers and organic peroxides, radioactive substances, corrosive substances, and toxic materials. Above certain quantities, transporting these goods is subject to stringent regulations under the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR).

2. Training and Certification

Drivers must be adequately trained and certified to transport dangerous goods, even if they don’t load the goods themselves. This involves completing a Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC) and obtaining an ADR training certificate, which is valid for five years. This training covers the classification, packaging, labelling, and handling of dangerous goods.

3. Vehicle Requirements

Vehicles transporting dangerous goods must meet specific requirements, including:

• Appropriate Vehicle Design: The vehicle should be designed and constructed to safely transport dangerous goods, with appropriate containment systems to prevent leaks or spills. This might mean a construction such as racks for gas bottles, tankers for flammable liquids, or segregation devices to keep items separate.
• Safety Equipment: Vehicles must be equipped with appropriate fire extinguishers, wheel chocks, warning signs, and personal protective equipment (PPE) for the driver.
• Vehicle Marking: Vehicles must display orange plates at the front and rear, and placards indicating the type of dangerous goods being transported. Vehicles that are not carrying dangerous goods must not display the placards.

4. Documentation

Accurate documentation is crucial when transporting dangerous goods. This includes:

• Transport Document: Details of the goods, including the UN number, proper shipping name, hazard class, and packing group.
• Instructions in Writing: Safety procedures and emergency actions to be taken in case of an accident, which must be kept in the vehicle cab in an easily accessible place.
• Dangerous Goods Note: This document accompanies the consignment and must be completed by the consignor.

5. Packaging and Labeling

All dangerous goods must be properly packaged and labelled according to ADR regulations. Packaging must be durable, secure, and appropriate for the type of goods being transported. Labels should clearly indicate the nature of the danger and be visible on all sides of the packaging.

6. Loading and Unloading

The loading and unloading of dangerous goods must be conducted with utmost care:

• Proper Procedures: Follow specific procedures for handling each type of dangerous good, ensuring that no leaks, spills, or contamination occur, and that packaging isn’t damaged by the forklift or other materials handling equipment being used
• Securement: Goods must be securely stowed to prevent movement during transit.
• Segregation: Incompatible goods must be segregated to prevent dangerous reactions; goods that can’t be segregated must not be carried on the same vehicle.

7. Operational Considerations

Drivers must be aware of operational considerations, including:

• Routing: Use designated routes and avoid restricted areas unless necessary.
• Vehicle Attendance: The vehicle should not be left unattended unless specific precautions have been taken.
• Speed and Driving Conditions: Adjust speed according to the nature of the goods and road conditions, and be prepared for potential hazards. Understand where it is mandatory to stop.

8. Emergency Procedures

In case of an emergency, drivers must follow the procedures outlined in the instructions in writing:

• Immediate Actions: Stop the vehicle, alert emergency services, and follow the safety instructions. This might include spill control or spill mitigation.
• Public Protection: If necessary, cordon off the area and prevent public access; explain where a safe evacuation point might be in terms of wind direction or the flow of spilled chemicals.
• Reporting: Report the incident to the relevant authorities as soon as possible.

9. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Non-compliance with dangerous goods regulations can result in severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and suspension of the driver’s ADR certificate. It is essential to adhere to all legal requirements to avoid these consequences.

Conclusion

Transporting dangerous goods by road is a responsibility that requires comprehensive knowledge of regulations and strict adherence to safety protocols. Drivers must ensure that they are properly trained, that their vehicles meet the necessary standards, and that all documentation and procedures are followed meticulously. By doing so, they can help maintain safety on the roads and protect the public from potential hazards.