Skip the NI Direct Bar

Topics: Carriage Dangerous Goods

Introduction:

Dangerous Goods are those substances and articles which are subject to the provisions in ADR. They have the potential to harm people, other living organisms, property, or the environment.

Whilst transporting dangerous goods, certain precautions must be taken. There is the risk of road traffic collisions and spillages, etc. which could lead to fire, explosion, chemical burn or environmental consequences.

The Carriage of Dangerous Goods & Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations, implement the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road Regulations, commonly referred to as ADR.

The purpose of the regulations is to protect everyone either directly involved (such as consignors or carriers), or those who might become involved in an emergency. Dangerous goods are assigned to various classifications depending on their fundamental hazard.

Ask the Expert here   Resources on this topic can be downloaded here

Key Messages/Current Issues:

  • Information

    The PSNI are now actively engaged in road stops targeting vehicles carrying dangerous goods. Non compliance with the detailed requirements in the legislation has resulted in prohibition and could also lead to prosecution. Operators must appoint a “dangerous goods safety advisor” (DGSA) to assist them to navigate the prescriptive legal requirements for the particular substances being carried.

  • Training

    Any person involved in the carriage of dangerous goods must be trained in accordance with ADR. Drivers need to receive ADR training in accordance with the goods which they are carrying and be in possession of a valid certificate issued on behalf of the competent authority.

  • Vehicles & Equipment

    Vehicles transporting dangerous goods must meet the requirements of ADR and be appropriately marked and placarded. Vehicles must be provided with the appropriate fire fighting & miscellaneous equipment for the goods which they are carrying.

Key Legislation

The Carriage of Dangerous Goods & Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010

Exceptions: List of Authorisations given under the Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010

Carriage of Dangerous Goods - Approved Derogations and Transitional Provisions

Please note that these links are to the original legislation, visitors should verify for themselves whether legislation is in force or whether it has been amended or repealed by subsequent legislation.