Transporting Dangerous Goods (ADR)

ADR (Accord Dangereux Routier) sets international rules for transporting dangerous goods by road. The UK follows these rules. Non-compliance carries unlimited fines and potential imprisonment.

ADR dangerous goods transport

Requirements for transporting dangerous goods

ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road) sets rules for transporting hazardous materials.

Driver requirements:

ADR training certificate (initial 18-24 hours)
Certificate valid for 5 years
Refresher training for renewal

Dangerous goods classes:

Class 1: Explosives
Class 2: Gases
Class 3: Flammable liquids
Class 4: Flammable solids
Class 5: Oxidising substances
Class 6: Toxic substances
Class 7: Radioactive material
Class 8: Corrosive substances
Class 9: Miscellaneous dangerous substances

DGSA: Some businesses need a Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser.

ADR Driver Training Requirements

Training and certification for drivers of dangerous goods

Core ADR certificate: Required for all DG drivers
Tanker specialisation: Additional training for tank vehicles
Class 1 (explosives): Separate specialisation required
Class 7 (radioactive): Separate specialisation required
Training duration: 3-5 days depending on modules
Exam: Multiple choice (SQA in Scotland, City & Guilds elsewhere)
Course cost (typical): £400-£800 depending on modules
Certificate validity: 5 years

Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser (DGSA)

When businesses must appoint a DGSA

DGSA required: If consigning, carrying, or loading DG above thresholds
DGSA qualification: Pass DGSA exam for relevant transport mode
DGSA responsibilities: Monitor compliance, investigate incidents, advise on procedures
Annual report: DGSA must prepare annual report for business
Small quantities exemption: Below 'limited quantities' thresholds - no DGSA needed
Penalty for non-compliance: Criminal prosecution, unlimited fine

Dangerous Goods Transport Penalties

Penalties for dangerous goods transport offences

Carrying DG without ADR training: Unlimited fine
Incorrect vehicle marking: Unlimited fine
Missing documentation: Unlimited fine
Failure to appoint DGSA: Unlimited fine
Incorrect packaging: Unlimited fine
Vehicle prohibition: Immediate prohibition by DVSA
Serious incidents: HSE prosecution, potential imprisonment

ADR compliance planning

Assess needs: Determine if you need DGSA before carrying dangerous goods
Training schedule: Book ADR courses well ahead - 5-year certificate validity
Vehicle equipment: Ensure all vehicles carry required safety equipment
Documentation system: Set up process for transport documents and emergency cards
Annual DGSA report: DGSA must report on compliance to senior management

Business Context Testing

Content Graph

Guvnor

Transporting Dangerous Goods (ADR)

ADR compliance planning

Compliance Assistant

🧪 Business Context Testing

◉ Content Graph

ADR compliance planning

Related guides in Risk Assessment

Business Context Testing

Content Graph