How Hazardous Cargo is Transported

Let’s begin with the basics: what is needed to start transporting hazardous cargo?

First and foremost, a driver must have a license as required under the Law of Ukraine “On Motor Transport” to provide hazardous cargo transportation services. To obtain this license, the driver must undergo specialized training focused on safety measures and the specifics of transporting hazardous materials. Without this training, it is impossible to acquire the license necessary for transporting hazardous cargo of any class.

For packaging, loading, unloading, moving and temporary storage of hazardous cargo, the personnel involved must have an appropriate level of knowledge. Without it, no staff member can properly and safely perform these tasks.

Training for automobile carriers takes place in specialized training centers. To qualify for the training, a driver must have more than three years of driving experience and present a diploma of higher education. This ensures that only well-trained and qualified individuals handle the transportation of hazardous cargo, prioritizing safety and compliance with regulations.

Preparing Transport for Hazardous Cargo Transportation

When preparing a vehicle for transporting hazardous cargo, several specific requirements must be met. Without adhering to these, transportation cannot proceed.

• Certain types of hazardous cargo may only be transported in covered trucks (e.g., with tarpaulin coverings) or sealed trucks (e.g., solid metal containers or refrigerated vehicles, especially if temperature control is required). If no temperature control is needed, standard covered trucks are sufficient.
• For transporting items like oxygen cylinders, the truck must have proper ventilation to ensure airflow in the cargo area.

Before transportation begins, it’s essential to confirm with the sender if any additional equipment is required for the vehicle. For instance, some companies may mandate special protective clothing or footwear, particularly when transporting chemical products.

Specifics of ADR Cargo Transportation

When transporting hazardous cargo, keep in mind the following nuances:

• Some hazardous goods have restrictions on the quantity allowed per shipment.
• Restrictions may also apply to mixed loads of different types or classes of hazardous materials.

Before loading begins, hazardous goods must be classified according to their danger level (Class 1 to 9). This classification is typically provided by the sender.

To transport hazardous goods, the following documents are necessary:

1. Cargo Transportation Document:
   • If the entire shipment cannot fit into one vehicle, individual documents or copies for the total quantity must be prepared.
2. License for Hazardous Cargo Transportation:
   • This is a white document with a pink diagonal stripe issued for the vehicle.
3. Written Safety Instructions:
   • These must be provided by the sender and include all necessary precautions.
4. Certificate of Proper Loading:
   • This ensures the vehicle is loaded in compliance with safety standards.

With the proper documentation in place, the hazardous cargo is loaded onto the truck, securely sealed and dispatched to its destination. By following these guidelines, the transportation of hazardous goods can be conducted safely and efficiently.