Every day, 1000s of dangerous goods are packed and carefully shipped around the world. But still, there are many incidents of accidents reported during the transportation of dangerous goods. So, how do you reduce the chances of such incidents? Of course, having your team prepared with a TDG online training is the first thing you need to do, but there is a lot more you can try, like some of them which we bring to you in this blog. Before we proceed, let’s have a look at the Items on this list.
- Explosives
- Flammable gas
- Certain liquids and gases
- Pesticides
- Certain chemicals
Do You Need to Be Certified to Ship Dangerous Goods?
One of the most important things you need to do before you start shipping dangerous goods is to have yourself or your team equipped with the skills, which is only possible when you have TDG certification. The training program will help you with:
- Labeling – Proper knowledge about labeling the goods being transported to ensure that those handling the goods know what the material is and that it is a hazardous material.
- Packaging – This is also very important so that the risk can be reduced during the process.
- Documentation – For safe transportation of dangerous goods, it is also important to maintain proper documentation so that the shipper, handler, and receiver understand that the transported goods are dangerous.
Follow Packaging Protocols & Procedures.
A very important thing you can do to ensure the safe transportation, of dangerous goods or hazardous materials is proper packaging for all types of cargo. When packaged among other items, dangerous goods like chemicals should be easily accessible and accessed rapidly if an emergency occurs. Make sure that the packaging of goods is appropriately labeled and suitable for the goods you’re shipping. It is also suggested to maintain proper documentation. Shippers across the world should have strict protocols to ensure that HAZMAT materials are shipped as safely as possible.
Properly Identify DG (Dangerous Goods) Goods?
While it is not going to be too tough when you have a team with TDG certification, but it is still suggested to ensure that you are able to identify dangerous goods properly before you can ship them to code. There are certain limitations like some goods can be only shipped via train, for example, while others can’t be shipped due to their chemical composition. There are some other items that seem harmless but are dangerous goods, such as:
- Lithium batteries
- Dry ice
- Aerosol sprays
Not many people know but even the vibration or changes in air pressure or temperature can make certain goods dangerous. So, make sure to keep your team informed about the TDG online training so they know how to ship them and also take the right step when required. This is very useful in case of an emergency situation like a chemical spill. Proper knowledge also helps minimize or prevent any such incident.
