Carriage, loading, unloading and handling

Contents

• Introduction
• Basic requirements
• CDG Regs
• ADR
• Annex 8.1 - Examples of poor stowage

Introduction

This comparatively short part of ADR (part 7) covers the transport chain from loading the vehicle to unloading it.

It includes references to particular provisions for the three basic modes (packages, bulk and tanks)

Basic requirements

There are some very basic requirements in part 1.4 of ADR. In particular, 1.4.1.2 concerns immediate risk to public safety.  Paragraph 1.4.2.2.4 requires the journey to be stopped if there is an infringement which could jeopardise the safety of the operation.

CDG Regs

Regulation 5 is the basis for implementing ADR, where the key obligations are set out in 1.4

ADR

1 The relevant part of ADR is part 7.  For the most part this is straightforward. The following should help to navigate the main requirements

2 Chapter 7.2 contains the special provisions in relation to packages which are set out in column 16 of table A. These are all prefixed "V"

3 Chapter 7.3 contains the special provisions in relation to carriage in bulk which are set out in column 17 of table A. These are all prefixed "VV"

4 Chapter 7.4 contains the special provisions in relation to carriage in tanks which can only be done if allowed by reference in columns 10 or 12 of table A.  It is possible for a competent authority to grant approval for exception to this rule.  The designation codes for vehicle types are also set out (see column 14 of table A)

5 Chapter 7.5 sets out

• at 7.5.2 the rules on mixed loading (not to be confused with "mixed packing" – see ADR at 4.1.10).   There is special detail for explosives. The matrix enables one to see where mixed loading is prohibited, allowed without qualification or allowed under certain circumstances.  Note that where there are prohibitions, these apply to loading within the same vehicle or container.  For example the towing unit and trailer of a draw bar combination are separate vehicles. 
• at 7.5.4 some rules about precautions with respect to foodstuffs etc.
• at 7.5.4 some rules about quantity limitations (mainly explosives and organic peroxides) 
• at 7.5.7 are the rules about handling and stowage. The most obvious is that relating to proper loading (stowing) and securing of the load to prevent accidents arising from the load shifting. This sets a high standard and supplements the more general laws concerning load safety on goods vehicles. Example of poor stowage are shown below
• 7.5.8 requires the carrier to clean the vehicle if packaged loads have leaked
• 7.5.9 prohibits smoking during handling operations in or around vehicles 
• 7.5.10 requires precautions against electrostatic discharges when carrying substances with flash point 61° C or lower.
• 7.5.11 Special provisions "CV" where specified in column 18 of table A.  Some of these are very detailed and specific to particular substances or groups of substances.

Annex 8.1 - Examples of poor stowage

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