A Brief Guide on Handling Dangerous Goods
Introduction
Dangerous goods are substances or materials that pose a risk to people, property, or the environment due to their chemical or physical properties. These goods require special handling, packaging, declaration paperwork, and transportation to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Here at Ark-H, we have an experienced team trained in the handling of dangerous goods, and in this blog, we delve into some of the considerations that must be made during the process.
Identification of Dangerous Goods
Dangerous goods can be identified by their chemical or physical properties, which may include being flammable, pressurised, corrosive, or otherwise harmful. Common examples include:
- Flammable liquids (e.g. petrol, alcohol)
- Compressed gases (e.g. propane, oxygen)
- Corrosive substances (e.g. acids)
- Toxic materials (e.g. pesticides, certain chemicals)
- Explosives
The two most common products that we get asked about are aerosols and lithium batteries. Both of these are classed as dangerous goods and therefore have specific packaging and labelling requirements. Anyone handling these products will need to ensure that they have staff trained to the appropriate standards and that they keep up to date on all of the guidelines.
Classification
Dangerous goods are classified into nine classes based on their primary hazard:
- Explosives
- Gases
- Flammable liquids
- Flammable solids
- Oxidisers and organic peroxides
- Toxic and infectious substances
- Radioactive materials
- Corrosive substances
- Miscellaneous dangerous substances
Packaging and Labelling
Proper packaging and labelling are crucial for the safe transportation of dangerous goods. Packaging must meet specific standards to prevent leaks, spills, or reactions during transit. Labels and markings must clearly indicate the type of hazard and include the appropriate hazard symbols.
Transportation Requirements
Transportation of dangerous goods involves additional requirements compared to non-dangerous goods. These include:
- Special packaging and labelling
- Documentation such as the Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods
- Compliance with regulations set by authorities such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA)
- Training for personnel handling dangerous goods
Training and Compliance
Personnel involved in the handling, packaging, and transportation of dangerous goods must undergo specific training to ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards. Training programs cover topics such as hazard identification, packaging requirements, labelling, and emergency response procedures.
Resources and Further Reading
For more detailed information and resources on dangerous goods, you can refer to the official IATA website, the comprehensive guide on GOV.UK, (links below) or of course Contact Us to see how we can help:
