Some questions answered about carrying or shipping hazardous loads by road.
Hi all, me again.
This week we thought we would discuss ADR and answer some of the questions we get asked on a regular basis. Here at Prigmore Haulage Ltd this is something we specialise in, we have been working with ADR since 2000 so we know our stuff pretty well. Plus what is good news for you all is we now offer ADR training, ADR awareness and DGSA consultancy.
So lets start with the meaning. What is ADR? This is an abbreviation of a french word but it basically means an agreement between multiple countries carrying dangerous loads on the road. Even though ADR is an European Agreement it will not be affected by Brexit (dare I say that word) and not all countries are even in Europe that use ADR. They are a set of guidelines to make sure that the carriage of dangerous goods is safe.
What is classed as dangerous goods you may ask? These have been identified by a group of chemists who have decided that certain chemicals cause an effect or a reaction that is considered an unacceptable risk to the environment, people or property. Each one is given a special 4 digit number making it translation proof and easier when informing the emergency services.
Now, who does ADR apply to. As it stands anyone who is sending out dangerous goods by road i.e the Consignor, any one taking the product i.e the haulier and the Consignee. Each one has a responsibility to their part in keeping the products safe from harming anything else. With the help of a DGSA (Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser) each party can do the best of their ability to protect the people, environment and property from any and all unacceptable risk.
This being said, how does this apply to drivers? Under ADR the rules state that drivers must be qualified by a competent authority to carry these dangerous chemicals. This is tested by the SQA and here at Prigmore Haulage Ltd we can train you to have the licence that is required. After, 3 days of learning there is a multiple choice exam. We can offer CPC alongside the training so you can get both at the same time. Just like CPC this lasts only 5 years and does need repeating but they fall in well together.
As a company it is the employers responsibility to make sure that all their staff are adequately trained which is why Prigmore Haulage Ltd can also offer half day training with a certificate of attendance to any ADR awareness courses and can come onsite to train multiple staff at the same time. You will also need a DGSA if you are the Consignor or Carrier and by 2021 even those who deal with a limited quantity must also have a DGSA. We can offer you that service at a a price and flexibility that suits your companies needs.
So, if you're a driver with more curiosity or a company looking for help then please call our offices now on 01933 651 778 or leave a comment below.
Thank you for reading, drive safe and over to you!
Comments