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Don’t be caught out by transport rules

CHANGES to how hazardous goods and chemicals are transported on the country’s roads are confusing many companies, according to one of the region’s specialist hauliers.

Legislation to tighten up the rules mean more substances are being re-classified as dangerous, including lithium batteries and lubricating oils.

But Teesside-based Nicholson’s Transport fears the regulations may be catching out many companies over what they can and cannot carry legally.

Nicholson’s is the only North East haulier licensed by the Hazchem Network to carry hazardous and dangerous goods and chemicals and is offering its expert knowledge and specialist support to help businesses meet the requirements of the ever-changing legislation.

Kris Marsay, operations director at Nicholson’s Transport, said: “We know that some companies are finding the regulations challenging, including all the additional documentation that is required.

“We are well placed to provide support and guidance on all aspects of their hazardous goods movements to ensure companies understand their responsibilities and that the goods are carried safely to their destination.”

The regulations for the transport of dangerous goods are enforced across Europe and monitored by the police, the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). One of the main changes is that the carrier of the goods – and not the consignor – is now responsible for their safe carriage and needs to carry the correct documents at all times.

Nicholson’s Transport provides an over-night service transporting hazardous goods for its customers, one of which is Stokesley-based agricultural product manufacturer Ecosyl.

David Pickard, regulatory affairs manager for Ecosyl, said: “When we carried out an assessment on two of our dairy hygiene products, we found that they were classified as hazardous.

“Because it’s such a specialised area and the regulations are so complex, you need expert knowledge to comply, so we rely on Nicholson’s to help us meet our legal responsibilities.

“We are very confident that they do their utmost to ensure that our goods are being transported within the law.”

Nicholson’s Transport is hosting a free hazardous goods seminar in February to advise on the regulations and make businesses aware of their legal obligations. For more information or to book a place, call Nicholson’s Transport on (01642) 556622.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Melanie Taylor .