Transport of dangerous goods by road

Environment

Transport of dangerous goods by road – ADR

The transport of dangerous goods by road has been the object of attention by the regulatory system over time, as it brings potential problems and damage to people and the environment.

Dangerous goods , in fact, are those which, by their nature, can cause damage to the environment or to people’s health: even a hazardous waste which is sent for disposal or a chemical product which is returned, can cause the company to fall under the obligations of the ADR.

The aim of the International Agreement concerning the Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road ( ADR – Accord europeo relatif au transport international des merchandises Dangereuses par Route) is to ensure that dangerous goods are transported safely .

The last update dates back to the beginning of 2019 when the annexes of the directive were updated, with a relative adaptation to new technologies.

The legislation, in summary, defines the procedures for the preparation of dangerous goods, the suitability of vehicles and drivers.

In fact, the provisions of the ADR agreement include:

  • the classification of dangerous substances
  • the conditions of packaging of the goods
  • the structure of vehicles and tanks
  • Transport requirements and travel documents
  • Driver licensing
  • the exemptions

The entire transportation process involves:

  • shipper
  • conveyor
  • recipient
  • loader
  • packer
  • filler
  • unloader

Of particular importance are the obligations of shippers and transporters : in the case of shipping and/or transport of certain quantities of dangerous goods, companies must appoint consultants for the safety of the transport of dangerous goods , in order to prevent any type of risk throughout the entire logistics chain.

An update is required every two years regarding the responsibility of these parties involved.

Fines  (up to 8,000 euros) and the deduction of points from the license for non-compliance are also foreseen  .

GSA is available to verify the need, or not, to proceed with the appointment of the ADR consultant , providing all the necessary assistance for the various regulatory obligations.