From risk to reliability – mastering transport compliance with DGM

The transport of dangerous goods plays a vital role in our modern economy within New Zealand and the rest of the world, facilitating the movement of essential materials that are crucial for various industries. From pharmaceuticals to manufacturing, many sectors rely on the safe and efficient transportation of hazardous materials to ensure their operations run smoothly. However, transporting these goods is not without its challenges. The potential risks associated with dangerous goods require strict compliance with regulations and safety protocols to protect people, property, and the environment.

Dangerous goods are classified as materials that can pose a significant risk during transportation due to their hazardous nature and require proper handling. Examples of dangerous goods that require special certification during transport include:

Flammable Liquids: Items like petrol and ethanol, Explosives: Materials such as industrial explosives for controlled demolition and construction. Corrosive Materials: Substances like sulfuric acid and batteries that can cause severe damage to living tissues and materials upon contact. Toxic Substances: Chemicals such as pesticides and industrial solvents are essential for agriculture and manufacturing but can be harmful if mishandled. Gases: Compressed gases like propane and oxygen are widely used in various industries, from healthcare to welding on building sites.

However, not only industrial materials but also everyday consumer commodity items that can be found around the house are classed as dangerous goods such as Deodorant cans, perfumes, Hair dyes and lithium batteries for electronic devices such as cell phones.

The transport of dangerous goods is governed by organisations such as the International Civil Aviation Organization for air transport, the International Maritime Organization for sea transport, and the Ministry of Transport for road freight transport. Each mode of transport has its own set of compliance regulations outlining the legal requirements, ensuring that dangerous goods are transported safely within their regulation’s requirements.

Completing these requirements set out by the governed organisation is commonly known as dangerous goods certification. However, certifying dangerous goods for transport requires thorough training to meet international and national rules and requirements. This training covers to name a few, how to classify, package, mark, label, and document dangerous goods properly, along with handling and emergency procedures including state and operator regulations to ensure safety during transport. These requirements are so strict that if there is one small error or spelling mistake, the shipment will fail its acceptance and airlines, or shipping lines will reject the whole shipment. Regular refresher training, usually every two years, is required to keep up with any changes in the rules. Certification is given after completing the course and passing an assessment, confirming the person is qualified to prepare and approve dangerous goods shipments safely and legally.

Unfortunately, it is all too common for businesses to either be unaware or blatantly ignore these legal requirements around dangerous goods qualifications/training and certification for transport. Failing to declare or incorrectly certify a dangerous goods shipment can lead to serious consequences for businesses and individuals. Undeclared or improperly certified shipments pose significant safety risks during transport, endangering lives, property, and the environment. The regulatory authorities such as the NZ Police and the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand impose strict penalties, including hefty fines that can range from thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars for both the individual and company and in severe cases, criminal charges or imprisonment. Such incidents lead to not only shipment delays but also legal liabilities, damaged reputations, and strained relationships with customers and partners.

In New Zealand, multiple factors are driving this expansion. One of the key contributors is the increasing production and introduction of modern products containing hazardous materials. A significant example is the rising use of lithium batteries, which are now an essential component in consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable energy storage systems. Their widespread application has led to a surge in demand for compliant DG packaging, certification, and transportation solutions.

Additionally, the industry is witnessing the introduction of new dangerous goods items, such as sodium-ion and sodium-metal batteries, which present additional unique challenges in classification, handling, and transportation. As technological advancements drive innovation, the need for businesses to safely and efficiently manage these materials continues to grow.

Another significant factor fuelling the demand for DG services is the rapid expansion of e-commerce. With more consumers and businesses relying on online shopping, freight volumes have risen dramatically, including shipments containing dangerous goods. From lithium batteries in consumer devices to aerosol-based products, perfumery items, and industrial chemicals, DG transport has become a vital part of global supply chains.

Alongside the rise in freight volumes, the regulatory requirements surrounding DG transport are constantly evolving. Updates and amendments to DG transport regulations occur annually, introducing new classifications, information, and requirements that all businesses must adhere to. Navigating these complex and ever-changing regulatory frameworks can be overwhelming, particularly for companies without specialised expertise in DG compliance.

For any business handling or shipping dangerous goods, staying up to date with the latest regulations and training requirements is not just a compliance necessity, it is a critical component of ensuring safety and business continuity.

Dangerous Goods Management Ltd (DGM) has more than 30 years of experience transporting dangerous goods and therefore has a good understanding of the regulatory requirements needed to meet safety standards across all modes of transport. Whether it’s certification, consultation or training, Freight forwarders, New Zealand’s defence forces and airlines are among the companies that have engaged and have partnerships with DGM to undertake and take care of all their dangerous goods compliance needs.

Ryan Watson, DGM Business Manager, has over 10 years of experience in the dangerous goods industry. As an expert, he provides in-depth guidance on compliance and transport regulations, helping clients which include New Zealand’s largest courier networks and leading freight forwarders navigate complex requirements, ensuring they meet the highest safety and regulatory standards.