31. Dangerous Goods Handling
Safe Transportation and Compliance in Logistics
What Are Dangerous Goods?
Dangerous goods (often abbreviated as DG), also known as hazardous materials (hazmat), are substances or items that pose a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment during transportation or storage. These include chemicals, gases, flammable liquids, explosives, radioactive materials, and corrosives.
The handling and transport of dangerous goods are governed by strict international regulations due to the inherent risks involved.
Key Regulatory Frameworks
Dangerous goods are regulated by international, national, and modal-specific organizations. The major governing bodies and frameworks include:
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UN Model Regulations (United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods)
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ADR (Accord européen relatif au transport international des marchandises dangereuses par route – for road transport in Europe)
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IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code – for sea freight)
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IATA DGR (International Air Transport Association Dangerous Goods Regulations – for air freight)
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RID (Regulations concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail)
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ICAO-TI (International Civil Aviation Organization Technical Instructions – air transport)
Each set of regulations defines how dangerous goods must be classified, packaged, labeled, documented, stored, and transported.
Classification of Dangerous Goods
Dangerous goods are divided into 9 classes based on the type of hazard:
| Class | Description | Examples |
|---|
| 1 | Explosives | Fireworks, ammunition |
| 2 | Gases | Propane, oxygen, butane |
| 3 | Flammable liquids | Gasoline, ethanol, acetone |
| 4 | Flammable solids, substances liable to spontaneous combustion | Magnesium, phosphorus |
| 5 | Oxidizing substances and organic peroxides | Hydrogen peroxide, nitrates |
| 6 | Toxic and infectious substances | Pesticides, clinical waste |
| 7 | Radioactive material | Medical isotopes, uranium |
| 8 | Corrosives | Sulfuric acid, battery acid |
| 9 | Miscellaneous dangerous substances | Lithium batteries, dry ice |
Key Terms and Documentation
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UN Number: A 4-digit number assigned to each dangerous substance (e.g., UN1203 = gasoline).
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Proper Shipping Name (PSN): The official name of the substance as listed in the regulations.
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Safety Data Sheet (SDS): Detailed document providing information on handling, storage, and emergency measures.
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Packing Group (PG): Indicates the level of danger — PG I (high), PG II (medium), PG III (low).
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Transport Document (DGD / Shipper’s Declaration): A legal declaration from the shipper confirming the goods are packed and labeled according to law.
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Danger Labels and Placards: Hazard symbols placed on packages, containers, or vehicles to indicate the type of danger (e.g., flame for flammable, skull for toxic).
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Compatibility Group: Used for explosives to determine which can be safely transported together.
Packaging and Marking
Packaging of dangerous goods must meet performance standards and pass tests (e.g., drop test, pressure test). Containers must be UN-certified and marked with:
Examples:
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4G/Y25/S/22/D/BAM1234
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4G = fiberboard box
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Y = suitable for Packing Groups II and III
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25 = max gross weight in kg
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S = solid contents
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22 = year of manufacture
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D = Germany
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BAM1234 = testing agency code
Labeling Examples
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Class 3 – Flammable Liquid → red diamond with a flame
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Class 6 – Toxic Substance → white diamond with skull and crossbones
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Class 9 – Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods → black and white stripes
Labels must be durable, legible, and weather-resistant, and placed on at least two sides of each package.
Training Requirements
Personnel involved in handling dangerous goods must receive specialized training, including:
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General awareness
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Function-specific (e.g., packaging, documentation)
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Safety and emergency response
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Security awareness
Training is required by law and must be refreshed every 2–3 years depending on mode of transport.
Handling and Storage Guidelines
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Segregation: Certain substances must be kept apart due to chemical incompatibility.
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Ventilation: Many dangerous goods require well-ventilated areas.
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Temperature Control: Some goods (e.g., organic peroxides) are temperature-sensitive.
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Spill Kits and PPE: Facilities must have appropriate spill response kits and personal protective equipment on hand.
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Fire Suppression Systems: Essential for storing flammable materials.
Transport Considerations
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Vehicles must carry emergency instructions, placards, and equipment (e.g., fire extinguishers).
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Drivers often need ADR or HAZMAT licenses depending on country and class.
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Authorities may restrict routes or require escort services for high-risk goods.
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Tunnels, ports, and airports have strict limitations on what can pass through them.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Best Practices in Dangerous Goods Logistics
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Use certified packaging suppliers and follow packing instructions precisely.
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Label and document accurately. Errors can lead to customs rejections or accidents.
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Integrate tracking and monitoring systems to detect leaks or temperature breaches.
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Work with certified carriers experienced in DG logistics.
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Develop emergency protocols and conduct regular drills.
Summary
Dangerous goods handling is one of the most regulated and risk-sensitive sectors in logistics. It requires deep knowledge of international codes, correct classification, appropriate packaging and labeling, qualified personnel, and well-designed emergency procedures. Businesses involved in the storage or transport of hazardous materials must prioritize compliance, training, and safety — not only to protect people and property, but also to ensure smooth, legal, and uninterrupted operations.
