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Dangerous Goods Signs: Importance of Hazardous Goods Signage

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]While there are risks associated with transporting dangerous goods, these materials still need to be moved around the country and further afield. As a result, these substances have to be transported with care and attention as they do pose a risk. As a result, to ensure that they are transported correctly, they have all been classified, enabling transport companies to move these different classes of materials around safely while keeping in line with the law.

As a result, different hazard signs are used to differentiate between the different dangerous goods and that makes it important to understand the placards or individual warning signs for each item.

The Transportation of Dangerous Goods by Road

Agreement concerning the international carriage of dangerous goods by road – ADR is an agreement of 51 countries including the UK to all operates under the ADR regulations.

The dangerous goods might be flammable or classed as an explosive which means that they have to be transported with care. Safety is paramount but the law does stipulate that these goods have to be transported correctly. This will mean that the driver is qualified and that the right vehicle is used to maintain safety throughout. These different classes pose different risks while on the road, so they all have to be treated with care.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

ADR Hazard Signs & Classifications

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CLASS 1 – Explosives

There are a number of materials that pose a risk which is why this class is broken down into subclasses. This means that it can cover the likes of explosives with a mass explosion hazard, explosives with a severe projection hazard and explosives with a minor fire or projection hazard.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

CLASS 2 – Gases

There are three different classes of gases and these are known as flammable gas, non-flammable, compressed gas and toxic gas. The kind of goods you can expect to fall under this category includes the likes of helium, neon and nitrogen.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.driverlinktraining.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/class2.1.png” alt=”Flammable Gas” title_text=”class2.1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

CLASS 2.1 – Flammable Gas

Acetylene gas is a highly volatile flammable gas commonly used for welding.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.driverlinktraining.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/class-2.2.jpg” alt=”Non-Flammable Gas” title_text=”class-2.2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

CLASS 2.2 – Non-Flammable Non-Toxic Compressed Gas

[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.driverlinktraining.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/class-2.3.png” alt=”Toxic Gas” title_text=”class-2.3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

CLASS 2.3 – Toxic Gas

Toxic gases are harmful to living things, Carbon monoxide (CO) is produced by vehicles.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.driverlinktraining.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/class-3.png” alt=”Flammable Liquids” title_text=”class-3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

CLASS 3 – Flammable Liquids

This class will cover all flammable liquids which include white on red or black on red. This can include products such as petrol and kerosene.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.driverlinktraining.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/class-4.1.png” alt=”Flammable Solids” title_text=”class-4.1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

CLASS 4.1 – Flammable Solids

This is another varied class with a number of potential materials that have to be transported with a warning. This can include flammable solids, self-reactive substances and solid desensitised explosives. This can include wetted trinitrotoluene (TNT).[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.driverlinktraining.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/class-4.2.png” alt=”Spontaneously Combustible” title_text=”class-4.2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

CLASS 4.2 – Spontaneously Combustible

This involves transporting those substances that are liable to spontaneous combustion which means that they interact with oxygen.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.driverlinktraining.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/class-4.3.png” alt=”Dangerous When Wet” title_text=”class-4.3″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

CLASS 4.3 – Dangerous When Wet

These substances will emit flammable gases once they come into contact with water. This can include calcium, sodium and potassium.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.driverlinktraining.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/class-5.1.png” alt=”Oxidising Agents” title_text=”class-5.1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

CLASS 5.1 – Oxidising Agents

Some substances can self ignite when in contact with a fuel source. This includes the likes of nitric acid and sulfuric acid.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.driverlinktraining.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/class-5.2.png” alt=”Organic Peroxides” title_text=”class-5.2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

CLASS 5.2 – Organic Peroxides

Organic peroxides contain carbon and oxygen which means that the fuel and oxygen are already present, which makes them powerful explosives such as ethyl ether.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.driverlinktraining.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/class-6-1.jpg” alt=”Take Out Sign” title_text=”class-6-1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

CLASS 6.1 – Take Out Sign

These goods can cause harm to the human body and can include the likes of chlorinated hydrocarbons.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.driverlinktraining.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/class-6.2.jpg” alt=”Infectious Substances” title_text=”class-6.2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

CLASS 6.2 – Infectious Substances

This can include pathogens that can cause infectious diseases in humans and animals such as Ebola Virus, Lassa Virus and the Rabies Virus.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.driverlinktraining.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/class-7.jpg” alt=”Radioactive Substances” title_text=”class-7″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

CLASS 7 –  Radioactive Substances

Radioactive substances contain unstable atoms which means that they could give off invisible radiation that can cause damage to the body.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.driverlinktraining.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/class-8.png” alt=”Corrosive Substances” title_text=”class-8″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

CLASS 8 – Corrosive Substances

These substances can be very dangerous if mixed together. This includes the likes of acids and alkalis and they can cause significant damage to the body.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https://www.driverlinktraining.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/class-9.jpg” alt=”Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods” title_text=”class-9″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

CLASS 9 – Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods

Miscellaneous goods will include those that present a risk that is not covered by the other classes. An example of this might be a self-inflating life raft that contains compressed gas, explosive flares and flammable solid materials.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]

Why is it Important to Use The Correct Signage?

Each class differs which means that the risks between the goods also differ. What this means is that it is important to ensure that all of the goods are transported in accordance with the laws. This signage will clearly state what the materials are while it also makes it possible to identify the risks. As an example, corrosive materials can cause damage to many different materials while liquids that are flammable can ignite and cause significant damage.

As the risks can differ, it means that it is important that these materials are placed in the right dangerous goods storage as per their dangerous goods signage. This is because different controls are implemented to reduce the risk of the hazard and to maintain safety.

Examples are Lithium batteries or Elevated temperature Bitumen which is transported between 170 – 220 degrees range.

How to Choose The Right ADR Transport Company?

When it comes to choosing the right ADR transport company, it is important that they are fully aware of the European Agreements Concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods. This means that they have the scope to understand the different goods, the signs, the risks and know how to transport these goods in line with laws and regulations. They should also have qualified drivers who are highly trained and the right vehicles for transporting the goods. The vehicles must meet certain specifications and conditions in order to be suitable, therefore, an experienced and reputable company will put everything in place to provide a first-class and safe service.

Driverlink Training provides the full range of ADR Training Courses for drivers involved in the transportation of Dangerous Goods. Find out more about our ADR Training modules.

Conclusion

It is important that the right signage is used when transporting dangerous goods. It is also vital that the company transporting the goods also understands the signs and risks. This highlights the importance of the correct training, so drivers are well-equipped and capable of delivering a service that meets all expectations.

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What is ADR Training?

Under international regulations, hauliers must be familiar with the laws on transporting dangerous goods by road, as well as the procedures involved in classifying these goods.

With this in mind, ADR Training is an essential requirement for any driver that is carrying dangerous goods.

All drivers regardless of their previous driving experience must be in possession of an ADR Vocational Training Certificate. An ADR certificate is valid for 5 years, and it’s the driver’s responsibility to ensure that this is renewed on time.

We’ve created a helpful guide outlining everything that you need to know about ADR and ADR training. 

What is ADR?

Introduced in 1968, ADR is the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road. Most European countries are signed up to ADR, with each country implementing specific safety measures through its own national legislation. ADR is strictly policed.

ADR ensures that any goods deemed to be dangerous can freely cross international borders by road, providing that the goods, vehicles and drivers comply with the regulations.

ADR regulations are updated every 2 years in response to advances in technology.

Under ADR, when transporting dangerous goods internationally, drivers must ensure that their loads are accompanied by an official transport document, which includes the full classification of all substances being carried and how they should be packaged.

You must also ensure that you carry the following documents:

– transport documents containing prescribed information for each dangerous substance, material or article being carried

– emergency instructions in writing

ADR Certification

ADR certification is legally required for carrying anything that is deemed to be dangerous goods and drivers of all vehicles carrying dangerous goods must have an ADR training certificate.

There are, however, exemptions for drivers carrying the following:

– Small loads below the threshold limits

– Dangerous goods packed in limited quantities

– Dangerous goods packed in excepted quantities

If you are transporting certain types of dangerous waste, you must also register as a waste carrier.

ADR Training Courses

Any driver carrying dangerous goods must attend an approved basic training course, which will provide them with the information and tools they need to:

– Be aware of the hazards involved in the carriage of dangerous goods

– Take steps to reduce the likelihood of incidents occurring

– Take the necessary measures to ensure their own safety as well as that of the public and the environment, by limiting the effects of any incident that does occur

– Obtain practical experience of the actions they will need to take

ADR Training Courses are designed to ensure that all drivers working in the transportation industry have the knowledge, skills and expertise they need to ship dangerous goods safely and efficiently, from A to B.

ADR is broken down into 9 Classes, and each Class represents different products, eg, class 3 is for fuel. You would then decide which route you want to take, the most common route is 7 classes excluding 1 & 7.

However, before you get started, you will have to complete and pass the Core Class. Once completed, you will then need to select how you are going to carry the hazardous goods, whether that be by Tank, a Package or both.

For further information about ADR and ADR training, please do not hesitate to contact us or visit our ADR Training Courses Page.