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Dangerous Goods

Whether chemicals, explosive substances or flammable liquids are involved - the safe and compliant transport of these goods is crucial in order to protect people, the environment and property.

Dangerous goods are substances and materials that pose a risk to health, safety, the environment or property due to their chemical or physical properties. These goods may have explosive, flammable, corrosive, toxic or radioactive properties. The transport of such goods is subject to strict national and international regulations in order to prevent accidents or damage. These regulations govern, among other things, the classification, packaging, labelling and documentation of the goods. They also differ depending on the chosen mode of transport.

Transporting Hazardous Goods Correctly

Classification

Dangerous goods are categorised into different classes according to their specific hazards. This classification is important to ensure correct handling and transport. Each class has its own requirements in terms of packaging, labelling, transport and the applicable safety measures.

Take a closer look at dangerous goods classifications.

Packaging and Labelling

The packaging must be designed to withstand the hazards of the respective substances and ensure that no harmful substances are released. Labelling the packages with appropriate hazard symbols (pictograms) is mandatory. These symbols provide immediate information about the type of hazard (e.g. explosive, toxic or corrosive substances).

Documentation

The transport of dangerous goods requires special documents containing detailed information about the cargo. A complete set of original dangerous goods documentation must be available throughout the transport (door-to-door) and must be presented to the carrier, including

  • Dangerous goods transport document

  • safety data sheets

  • Loading instructions

Safety Equipment and Emergency Planning

It is essential that everyone involved has the necessary protective equipment during transport and knows how to act in an emergency. This includes fire extinguishers, personal protective equipment and emergency plans to ensure that immediate action can be taken in the event of a leak or accident. The necessary safety measures depend on the classification of the hazardous goods.

Training and Qualification of Staff

Anyone who comes into contact with dangerous goods - whether packing, loading or transporting - must be adequately trained and officially certified. This applies to both drivers and other logistics staff. Regular training ensures that staff are up to date with the latest regulations.

Transport Mode-Specific Regulations

Different regulations apply to transport by rail and inland waterway.

ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road)

This agreement regulates the road transport of dangerous goods within Europe.

IMDG-Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code)

This code regulates the maritime transport of dangerous goods and ensures that they are loaded, stowed and transported safely.

IATA-DGR (International Air Transport Association Dangerous Goods Regulations)

These regulations apply to the air transport of dangerous goods.

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