The Vital Role of a Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser (DGSA) for Your Business

Zed Aziz CMILT

In today's complex logistics landscape, ensuring the safe and compliant transport of goods is paramount. When those goods are classified as 'dangerous,' the stakes are even higher. This is where the crucial role of a Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser (DGSA) comes into play. At The Fleet Transport Consultants, we understand the intricacies of dangerous goods transport and the indispensable value a qualified DGSA brings to your organisation.

Understanding the Role of a Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser

A Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser (DGSA) is a professionally qualified individual responsible for overseeing an organisation's activities related to the carriage of dangerous goods by road, rail, or inland waterway. Their expertise ensures compliance with stringent regulations, primarily the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR), as well as other relevant transport regulations.

Key Responsibilities of a DGSA

As outlined in section 1.8.3 of the ADR, the core responsibilities of a DGSA are multifaceted and critical for maintaining safety and legality:

Monitoring Compliance: A DGSA diligently monitors the organisation's adherence to all regulations governing the carriage of dangerous goods. This includes procedures for classification, packaging, labelling, loading, unloading, and documentation.
Advising on Safe Transport: Providing expert advice to the undertaking on all aspects of dangerous goods transport is a central function. This includes guidance on the most appropriate and safest methods of carriage, the selection of suitable vehicles and equipment, and the correct application of regulations.
Preparing an Annual Report: The DGSA is responsible for compiling a comprehensive annual report detailing the organisation's activities related to the carriage of dangerous goods. This report, which must be preserved for five years and made available to national authorities upon request, provides a valuable overview of compliance and any incidents that may have occurred.

Expanding on Key DGSA Responsibilities

Advising on Safe Transport: This goes beyond simply stating the regulations. A DGSA provides practical, tailored advice to ensure that dangerous goods are transported safely and efficiently. This includes:

Determining the correct classification of dangerous goods.
Advising on appropriate packaging, marking, and labelling requirements.
Establishing safe loading and unloading procedures.
Ensuring the correct documentation, such as transport documents and instructions in writing, is in place.
Providing guidance on vehicle suitability and equipment requirements.
Planning secure routes and considering any specific provisions or exemptions.

Monitoring Compliance: Continuous monitoring is essential to prevent breaches of regulations and maintain a high level of safety. This involves:

Regularly reviewing and updating internal procedures and policies related to dangerous goods transport.
Conducting audits and inspections of transport operations.
Ensuring that all personnel involved in the carriage of dangerous goods are adequately trained.
Keeping abreast of changes in legislation and industry best practices.

Annual Reporting: The annual report serves as a vital record of the organisation's dangerous goods transport activities and compliance efforts. It typically includes:

A summary of the quantities and types of dangerous goods transported.
Details of any incidents or accidents involving dangerous goods.
An assessment of the organisation's compliance with regulations.
Recommendations for improvement in safety and compliance procedures.

Incident Investigation and Reporting: In the unfortunate event of an incident or accident involving dangerous goods, the DGSA plays a crucial role in:

Investigating the causes and circumstances of the incident.
Preparing detailed incident reports for the relevant authorities.
Recommending and implementing preventative measures to avoid recurrence.

Training and Awareness: A key responsibility of the DGSA is to ensure that all employees involved in the carriage of dangerous goods receive appropriate training and are aware of the relevant regulations and safety procedures. This includes:

Identifying training needs for different roles within the organisation.
Developing and delivering or arranging for dangerous goods training courses.
Maintaining training records.
Promoting a strong safety culture within the organisation.

Understanding the Categories of Dangerous Goods

Dangerous goods are classified into nine main classes, each with its own set of hazards. Some classes are further divided into subcategories to more precisely define the risks involved:

Class 1: Explosive substances and articles

Subclass 1.1: Substances and articles which have a mass explosion hazard.
Subclass 1.2: Substances and articles which have a projection hazard but not a mass explosion hazard.
Subclass 1.3: Substances and articles which have a fire hazard and either a minor blast hazard or a minor projection hazard or both, but not a mass explosion hazard.
Subclass 1.4: Substances and articles which present only a small hazard in the event of ignition or initiation during carriage. The effects are largely confined to the package and no projection of fragments of appreciable size or range is to be expected. An external fire shall not cause practically instantaneous explosion of the entire contents of the package.
Subclass 1.5: Very insensitive substances which have a mass explosion hazard but are so insensitive that there is very little probability of initiation or of transition from burning to detonation under normal conditions of carriage.
Subclass 1.6: Extremely insensitive articles which do not have a mass explosion hazard. These articles contain only extremely insensitive detonating substances and demonstrate a negligible probability of accidental initiation or propagation.

Class 2: Gases

Subclass 2.1: Flammable gases
Subclass 2.2: Non-flammable, non-toxic gases
Subclass 2.3: Toxic gases

Class 3: Flammable liquids

Class 4: Flammable solids, self-reactive substances and solid desensitized explosives

Subclass 4.1: Flammable solids, self-reactive substances and solid desensitized explosives
Subclass 4.2: Substances liable to spontaneous combustion
Subclass 4.3: Substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases

Class 5: Oxidizing substances and organic peroxides

Subclass 5.1: Oxidizing substances
Subclass 5.2: Organic peroxides

Class 6: Toxic and infectious substances

Subclass 6.1: Toxic substances
Subclass 6.2: Infectious substances

Class 7: Radioactive material

Class 8: Corrosive substances

Class 9: Miscellaneous dangerous substances and articles

Why Organisations Need a Qualified DGSA

Employing or engaging a qualified DGSA is not just a matter of ticking a box; it's a strategic decision that brings significant benefits to any organisation involved in the carriage of dangerous goods.

Legal Obligation: For many businesses involved in the consignment, carriage, or related operations of dangerous goods, appointing a DGSA is a legal requirement under the ADR regulations and corresponding national legislation. Failure to comply can result in significant penalties, fines, and even legal action.

Enhanced Safety: A DGSA's expertise directly contributes to a safer working environment and reduces the risk of accidents, incidents, and spills. Their knowledge of regulations and best practices ensures that dangerous goods are handled and transported in a manner that minimises potential hazards to employees, the public, and the environment.

Improved Compliance: Navigating the complex web of dangerous goods regulations can be challenging. A DGSA provides the necessary expertise to ensure full compliance, preventing costly errors, delays, and potential legal repercussions. They stay updated on the latest regulatory changes and ensure your organisation's procedures are always in line with the law.

Reputation and Credibility: Demonstrating a commitment to the safe and compliant transport of dangerous goods enhances your organisation's reputation and credibility with customers, partners, and regulatory authorities. Having a qualified DGSA in place showcases your proactive approach to safety and responsibility.

Becoming a Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser

Becoming a qualified DGSA in the UK involves completing an approved training course and passing an examination administered by a recognised awarding body.

Undertake an Approved DGSA Training Course: Several training providers across the UK offer courses covering the relevant transport modes (road, rail, and/or inland waterway) and the core aspects of dangerous goods regulations. The duration and format of these courses can vary.
Pass the DGSA Examination: Upon completion of the training, candidates must sit and pass a challenging examination that assesses their knowledge of the regulations and their ability to apply them in practical scenarios. The examination typically includes multiple-choice questions and may also involve case studies.
Obtain DGSA Certification: Successful candidates receive a DGSA certificate, which is valid for five years. To maintain their qualification, DGSA holders must undertake refresher training and pass a re-examination before their certificate expires.

Need a Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser? Contact The Fleet Transport Consultants Today!

Ensuring the safe and compliant transportation of dangerous goods is crucial for your business's legal standing, operational efficiency, and reputation. At The Fleet Transport Consultants, we offer professional and reliable DGSA services tailored to your specific needs. Our experienced and qualified DGSA can provide the expert advice and support you need to navigate the complexities of dangerous goods regulations, ensuring your peace of mind and the safety of your operations.

Contact us today to discuss how our DGSA services can benefit your organisation. Visit our website at www.theftc.co.uk or call us directly.