Updated Dangerous Goods Code includes changes to licensing, placards, packing instructions and more.
New requirements for companies and individuals transporting dangerous goods will take effect on January 1, 2017.
The National Transport Commission (NTC) has released the an updated version of the Australian Dangerous Goods Code, which includes changes to rules governing licensing, placards, packing, labels and more.
The NTC says the revised code, which incorporates United Nations and Australian changes, has been updated to align with international standards and meet community and industry needs.
The dangerous goods sector can continue using the existing code (edition 7.3) until the beginning of 2017.
“The Code is an important technical resource to help Australia’s transport and logistics industry to operate safely when carrying dangerous goods,” the latest edition states.
“It is important that all members of the supply chain understand and work to the requirements of the Code, including the consignor, packer, truck driver and dangerous goods transport companies, along with dangerous goods professionals and trainers.”
Amendments include the addition of new materials to the list of dangerous goods, changes to lithium battery transport requirements, a new rule on placards and a restriction on drivers with provisional or learner licences.
“The definition of a driver licence has been broadened. It clarifies that drivers on a provisional or learner licence cannot hold a dangerous goods licence,” the new code states.
“It is an offence for consignors, loader, prime contractor or driver to transport dangerous goods with an incorrect placard.”
The new code does not cover the transport of explosives, radioactive materials, infectious substances, the usage, storage or security of dangerous goods or waste products unless they are transported with other dangerous goods.
NTC CEO Paul Retter says the latest edition will continue to promote safe dangerous goods transport practices while helping reduce the administrative burden on companies.
“The latest edition should cut red tape for importers and exporters because the code is now more consistent with air and sea requirements for dangerous goods transport and is also more in line with overseas requirements,” Retter says.
“It is very important that people reading the code also read the dangerous goods legislation in their jurisdiction.”
Retter says the code is reviewed every two years to meet the changing needs of users and keep pace with the latest UN regulations.