Transporting dangerous goods is a sensitive process that carries risks to people, the environment, and property. This is why thorough planning and compliance with regulations are essential to ensure safe handling. Some key challenges in dangerous goods shipping include selecting the correct storage containers, controlling temperatures to prevent incidents, separating incompatible chemicals, and managing the required licenses and certifications.
Firstly the most important thing is to understand our dangerous goods thoroughly. which helps to know the risks, proper handling, and legal requirements can prevent accidents, fines, and delays. It ensures you choose the right packaging, labeling, and shipping methods.
The dangerous goods classes are as follows:
Class 1—Explosives
Class 2—Gases
Class 3—Flammable Liquids
Class 5—Oxidizing Substances and Organic Peroxides
Class 6—Toxic and Infectious Substances
Class 7—Radioactive Material
Class 8—Corrosives
Class 9—Miscellaneous Dangerous Substances and Articles, Including Environmentally Harmful Materials.
1)segregate the goods correctly
Some types of hazardous materials can react dangerously if they come into contact, causing explosions or toxic fumes. To prevent this, different types of dangerous goods should be stored in separate containers, and some chemicals might even need to be transported in different vehicles. Special devices can help keep hazardous goods apart during transport.
2) Be aware of storage temperature
Some goods need to be kept under certain temperature ranges to prevent any reactions from occurring. Always know the specific temperature requirements for your materials and make sure to maintain the right conditions during transportation. Some dangerous goods are sensitive to temperature changes, which can affect their stability and safety. If they're stored too hot or too cold, they could become hazardous or lose effectiveness.
To avoid this, monitor the temperature carefully and use the right storage solutions, such as insulated containers or refrigerated trucks, depending on the material's needs. Proper temperature control ensures safe handling and helps prevent accidents, keeping your cargo secure from start to finish.
3)Understand flash points. It’s important to store flammable goods below their flash point to avoid fires or explosions. The flash point is the lowest temperature at which the vapors of a flammable liquid can catch fire.
Each liquid has a different flash point, and make sure everyone on your team knows the flash points of the dangerous goods you're transporting to keep things safe.
4)Make sure you have the right transport documents.When moving dangerous goods, regulators may request documentation at any time. It’s essential to have all the required transport papers ready, detailing the goods in the vehicle.
These documents should include the consignor’s name and phone number, along with a description of the dangerous goods, following specific rules. The guidelines can vary by location, so check with local authorities for the latest requirements.
Also, be aware that some areas have no-go zones where transporting dangerous goods is not allowed. Keep this in mind when planning your routes to avoid delays or fines.
5)Mark and Label the Goods correctly
Every package containing dangerous goods must have the correct labels for shipping. This includes labels for their type, handling instructions, and any other necessary details. The labels should be placed where they’re easily seen, with no extra labels that don’t apply.
The labels should be strong, printed on adhesive, and stuck to the outside of the package, making sure they’re clear and visible. They must follow specific guidelines for shape, color, design, symbols, and text. Each label must also include an English version, along with the original language.
6)Unload carefully.
Follow safety rules when unloading dangerous goods. Clear any obstacles and reduce traffic from both vehicles and people in the area. If you're moving dangerous goods up or down stairs, make sure the stairs have proper safety features, like concrete stair treads, to prevent accidents.
Our team of experts at Seabreeze Logistics is trained and certified to handle and transport dangerous goods in compliance with international regulations and safety standards. We specialize in the safe handling of Class 1 (Explosives) Class 7 (Radioactive Materials), ensuring the highest level of safety and precision in every operation.