Mobile Explosive Manufacturing Units (MEMUs) represent a specialised segment of dangerous goods transport that demands particular attention to safety and compliance. These vehicles, designed to manufacture and directly charge explosives at mining and civil engineering sites, must adhere to stringent ADR regulations while operating on public roads.
Vehicle Construction and Design
MEMUs must meet specific construction requirements under ADR regulations. The vehicle base must be an EX/III approved vehicle, providing the highest level of safety standards for explosive transport. The manufacturing equipment mounted on these vehicles needs robust securing systems to prevent movement during transport, and all electrical systems must meet enhanced safety specifications to prevent any risk of ignition.
Tanks and containers on MEMUs require certification according to ADR chapter 6.12, which outlines specific requirements for tanks, bulk containers, and compartments for explosives. Each tank must display clear markings showing the substance it’s approved to carry, its capacity, and the date of the last inspection.
Documentation and Training Requirements
Drivers operating MEMUs need to hold both a valid ADR certificate covering Class 1 explosives and specific MEMU operation training. The standard ADR training must be supplemented with additional vehicle-specific instruction covering the unique aspects of MEMU operation. This includes understanding the manufacturing process and emergency procedures specific to the mobile manufacturing environment.
Operational Safety Measures
When travelling on public roads, MEMUs must be completely empty of any manufactured explosives and cleaned of explosive residues. The raw materials carried must be properly segregated according to ADR requirements. Tanks that have contained ammonium nitrate emulsions require special attention, as these substances can become sensitive to detonation under certain conditions.
Vehicle Marking and Placarding
MEMUs require specific orange-coloured plates and placarding. When carrying raw materials, the vehicle must display the appropriate hazard identification numbers and UN numbers for each substance. The vehicle must also carry a “MEMU” plate visible from the rear, clearly identifying it as a mobile manufacturing unit.
Emergency Procedures
Emergency procedures for MEMUs are more complex than standard dangerous goods transport due to the combination of different hazardous materials and manufacturing equipment. Drivers must carry detailed written instructions covering not only the raw materials being transported but also specific procedures relating to the manufacturing equipment.
Loading and Unloading
Before any journey, thorough checks must be made to ensure all equipment is properly secured and tanks are either empty or properly sealed. Any transfer hoses or manufacturing equipment must be thoroughly cleaned and secured. The vehicle’s weight distribution requires particular attention due to the heavy manufacturing equipment carried.
Regular Inspections and Maintenance
MEMUs require more frequent inspections than standard dangerous goods vehicles due to their complex nature. Daily checks must include not only the vehicle itself but also all manufacturing equipment and safety systems. Annual inspections must be carried out by approved testing stations that are familiar with MEMU requirements.
The strict regulation of MEMUs reflects their unique role in combining transport and manufacturing capabilities. While these requirements may seem onerous, they are essential for ensuring the safe operation of these specialised vehicles on public roads. Operators must maintain constant vigilance in compliance, as these units represent a higher risk profile than standard dangerous goods transport.
Darren has owned several companies in the automotive, advertising and education industries. He has run driving theory educational websites since 2010.