ADR for storage and transport of dangerous goods

With Ekosafe We inspect companies that store and handle hazardous substances. One of the topics during the inspection is the transport documents for ADR goods. Not infrequently (the score is almost 100% errors) the transport documents do not comply with the ADR regulations. 

Common mistakes

The errors we encounter mostly involve an incorrect or incomplete transport name. Errors in documents can have consequences such as fines, delays, and safety risks. What do we do?

• formatting in the wrong language; 
• Incorrect, incomplete or missing information ADR 5.1 (five) comma one) on a document is not equivalent to ADR 5.1 (five) point one) and therefore punishable;
• incorrect transport name on the document; 
• deviations from standard formats for hazardous substances that must be listed on the transport document.

Other issues we regularly encounter include a damaged, unclear or incorrect hazard label. The fine amounts to €900 per package. Each packaging unit counts separately. For 10 packages with the same problem, €9,000 can be imposed.

Certification mark

Furthermore, a common violation is the expired date or lack of a label on the packaging for ADR substances. The buckets with pool chemicals (ADR 5.1) travel the world without an UN label. Transport and storage of those goods is prohibited and therefore constitutes a violation. Incidentally, the fine is € 2,400 per packaging (18 buckets on a pallet: well over € 40,000). 

Security advisor

Every undertaking whose shipment or transport of dangerous substances by road or the related packaging, loading, filling, or unloading thereof involves it must appoint a safety advisor.

The duties of the security advisor include, among other things:

• inspecting/checking, among other things, packaging and information on transport documents
• advise on methods of shipment, restrictions or training,
• reporting an incident and the (mandatory) annual report

Consequences through insurance

Apart from the fines, in the event of incidents and damage, the financial damage to the company can be considerable. The insurance company is well equipped to handle this when it comes to paying out the compensation. Want to know more? Contact us via www.ekosafe.info/contact/.