ADR Training: Who Needs It and Why?

Certain goods transported on Britain’s roads come under a higher grade of scrutiny than those carried under the banner of general haulage; because of the laws governing the carriage of dangerous (hazardous) materials, proper training is essential.Due to the consequences that may follow from the improper handling, packaging or transportation of such goods, specialized knowledge is required for all who are involved at any stage of the process; most of all, the drivers themselves.

The Scope of ‘Dangerous Goods’

The term “dangerous goods” refers to substances and articles which, due to their chemical or physical properties, could pose a risk to human health and safety, property, or the environment. This category includes, but is not limited to:

• chemicals
• flammable liquids
• gasses
• explosives
• corrosives.

Some companies specialize in one particular substance; others are involved the transportation of several. For many companies, whose primary service involves the movement of such goods, a valid ADR qualification is necessary for all new employees; for this reason, it is often best, for a driver looking to enhance their career prospects, to obtain the qualification before they begin making job applications.

Who Needs ADR Training?

Drivers: Professional drivers who transport dangerous goods on public roads must undergo ADR training and pass the exams. This is not limited to the drivers of heavy goods vehicles; if a person drives a van, or even a car, containing these materials, they are required to obtain an ADR card, unless they are legally exempt from doing so.

These goods may be carried in packages, containers, or tankers; the basic initial qualification enables a driver to transport goods in packages and containers; it is necessary to undertake an additional module if a candidate intends, or expects, to drive tankers.

Operators: The operator is responsible for ensuring all staff are appropriately trained; the company may be held liable should an employee be found to have improperly handled or transported hazardous goods, regardless of the consequences arising from their actions.

Handlers and Packers: ADR training is just as important for any individual responsible for the loading and unloading, handling and packing of dangerous goods.

Why ADR Training Matters

Due to the severity of the consequences arising from inadequately handled, packaged or transported dangerous goods, ADR training is crucial on several levels for employees and employers alike.

Legal Compliance: Under both UK and international regulations, ADR is a prerequisite for those carrying and handling hazardous materials. Failure to comply (either by failing to obtain the qualification, by allowing your qualification to expire while still undertaking your work, or by working with materials not covered by your current qualification) can result in severe legal and financial penalties.

Safety First: Any accident or spillage involving hazardous materials has the potential to injure, maim and kill; further, it can cause significant and lasting damage to the environment, buildings and property. The primary purpose of ADR training is to equip candidates with the skills and knowledge they need to minimize the risk to themselves and others in the course of their work.

Professionalism: By ensuring that employees are fully trained, that they undergo refresher training well within their respective expiration dates, and that they will not be put in a position where they may be persuaded, whether for convenience or through peer pressure, to carry out their work in a less than compliant manner, a company showcases its commitment to the highest standards of professionalism, which in turn inspires confidence among customers, suppliers and third-party providers.

Emergency Preparedness: Because of the nature of the work, drivers often find themselves in the position of first responders to an emergency situation; their ADR training will prepare them for a variety of scenarios, and how they may conduct themselves safely and effectively.

Why train with Chartwise?

Chartwise has been delivering ADR courses for a decade; with a pass rate well above the national average and courses every month, we are excellently placed to help you, or your employees, gain and maintain their qualifications.

Our week-long ADR course covers all classes except Class 1 (Flammables) and Class 7 (Explosives); these are specialist classes required only for those in certain sub-industries, for example, armament manufacturing. We have, it should be said, delivered such specialist courses to groups at our premises in Team Valley, Gateshead; however, these classes are not part of our monthly programme.

The full ADR course without Tanks is delivered from Monday through Wednesday; candidates have Thursday off, and return on Friday to undertake 5 exams.

The full ADR course with Tanks is delivered from Monday through Thursday; candidates undertake 6 exams on Friday.

Results are generated on the same day as the exams, so candidates need not wait long to hear if they’ve passed.