HSENI in joint agency operation targeting dangerous goods
Date published:
A new targeted enforcement campaign to ensure the safe transport of dangerous goods on Northern Ireland’s roads is due to start next month.
The joint operation between the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI), and other enforcement agencies, will involve roadside inspections of vehicles carrying hazardous substances such as fuel, fertilisers and infectious substances, such as bacteria and viruses, as well as operator site inspections.
HSENI’s Principal Inspector Kellie McNamara said the operation was about ensuring dangerous goods are transported safely and according to the legal requirements.
“While transporting dangerous goods is vital for many local industries, from farming and home heating oil distributors to hazardous waste management, it carries significant risks for people, property and the environment. So, this operation is about ensuring operators fully comply with the regulations governing the carriage of dangerous goods on Northern Ireland’s roads.
“Transporting dangerous goods by road carries significant risks for drivers, other road users and emergency services if not carried out correctly. Some substances also pose serious environmental risks. So key safety requirements including the integrity of tanks, correct packaging and the provision of essential safety equipment are not only required by law but can be lifesaving.
“These inspections are designed to improve road safety, ensure legal compliance and support responsible operators as well as promote a level playing field and address non compliance by operators who cut corners and gain an unfair competitive advantage,” she said.
The work is carried out under the Carriage of Dangerous Goods & Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations.
The legislation sets out:
- which goods are classed as dangerous
- how goods must be labelled and packaged
- the training drivers must have
- the safety equipment vehicles need
- what documentation is needed
It also states that the vehicles must carry:
- fire extinguishers
- warning signs
- hi-vis clothing
- gloves
- eye protection
- spill kits
- wheel chock
Kellie McNamara said the campaign, which runs from Tuesday 5 May to Friday 22 May 2026, was not about catching out compliant businesses.
“The goal of the campaign is to support the operators - not to catch out responsible ones - and ensure safe, lawful transport practices that protect everyone. We are encouraging operators to use this campaign to refresh driver briefings, review operating procedures, ensure the correct documentation and safety equipment are carried on board, and confirm that pre use checks are carried out consistently.
“If shortcomings are identified, enforcement action may be taken. If drivers receive advice during roadside checks, operators are expected to take it seriously and address any issues promptly. HSENI Inspectors will carry out follow up inspections in the future to ensure all improvements actions have been implemented,” she added.
Notes to editors :
- Vehicles will be inspected in line with the Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010 (as amended). Also referred to in the industry as ADR - the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road.
- For more information visit:
- HSENI is an Executive Non-Departmental Public Body, sponsored by the Department for the Economy (DfE).
- For media enquiries please contact HSENI Press Office on 028 9024 3249 or email media@hseni.gov.uk. For out of hours please contact the Duty Press Officer on 028 9037 8110.