2023 Changes to the Law regarding DGSA’s
Companies who have previously transported dangerous goods only as consignors (according to the description given in the ADR manual, “Consignor” means the enterprise which consigns dangerous goods either on its behalf or for a third party. If the transport operation is carried out under a contract for carriage, consignor means the consignor according to the contract for carriage) were not obliged to appoint a safety adviser before, but will now have to do so since 31st December 2022.
What is a DGSA?
A dangerous goods safety adviser is a person certified to provide advice to organisations whose activities include moving dangerous goods. Dangerous goods are classified under ADR, which stands for the “European Agreement Concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road”, there are 9 classes of dangerous goods which include materials and substances from explosives, toxic substances, radioactive material to flammable liquids and solids.
In order to become a DGSA, an individual must obtain a vocational training certificate after receiving appropriate training and pass a written exam.
The DGSA is responsible for helping to prevent the risks inherent in the carriage of dangerous goods, specifically the risk to people, property and the environment.
The responsibilities of the DGSA include:
- monitoring compliance with the requirements governing the carriage of dangerous goods
- advising undertakings on the carriage of dangerous goods
- preparing an annual report about the performance of the undertaking in transporting dangerous goods
- investigating any accidents or infringements of regulations and preparing reports
- monitoring the provision of training and advice to other staff
- reporting of incidents and accidents to DfT
It is an employer’s responsibility to contract a third party to act as a DGSA for their undertaking if they do not have a member of staff trained as a DGSA.
A common factor in the Waste industry is the transportation of Asbestos Waste, in which there are specific Road Transport Regulations to comply with. We have compiled a quick guide which details the classification, packaging, labelling, and documentation required under ADR for the transport of Asbestos Waste.
Albion Environmental have highly experienced and certified DGSA’s who can provide consultancy support for any organisations who require a Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor.