The DGSA has an important role. The Carriage of Dangerous Goods Regulations 2007, in reference to ADR, state:

"Each undertaking, the activities of which include the carriage, or the related packing, loading, filling or unloading of dangerous goods by road [and rail] shall appoint one or more Safety Advisers [DGSA], responsible for helping to prevent the risks inherent in such activities with regard to persons, property and the environment."

Dangerous Goods Safety Advisers (DGSA's) must be able to demonstrate that they have successfully completed appropriate training, resulting in the award of a Vocational Training Certificate.

The DGSA has a legal obligation to carry out the following broad functions:

•  Monitoring compliance with the law.

•  Advising the employer with regards Dangerous Goods.

•  Preparing an annual report of the employers' activities.

•  Monitoring of a range of procedures and safety measures.

•  Investigating and compiling reports on any accidents or emergencies.

•  Advising on the potential security aspects of transport.

What is not immediately clear from the opening statement is that these regulations can apply to any person who allows dangerous goods to be carried by road, not just the transport operator. This could include anyone who consigns cargo, freight forwarders, warehousemen and manufacturers producing goods that will be collected from their factory.

If you may need a DGSA, or you already employ one but think a change may be due, click here for OUR DGSA SERVICES and see the difference.

Please be aware that many companies who should have a DGSA have not appointed one as they believe they have "Grandfather Rights", because they have a chemist or even an ADR trained driver. There is no such exemption. DGSA's must hold a valid Vocational Training Certificate.

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