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ADR – Transport of Dangerous Goods

To carry dangerous goods you need an ADR certificate, which is valid for 5 years. What else must be in the cab?

Applies in: EU Last updated:

This translation was made automatically and has not been reviewed yet. If in doubt, the Dutch text and the official legal text prevail.

What is ADR?

ADR is the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road. It applies in all EU countries and in many countries outside the EU. The rules are updated every two years (in odd-numbered years).

The ADR certificate

What Details
When required When you carry dangerous goods above the exempted quantities
How to obtain Training at an approved training centre + exam
Validity 5 years
Renewal Refresher training + exam in the year before the expiry date
Specialisations E.g. for tank transport, explosives (class 1) and radioactive material (class 7)

What must be in the cab?

  • your ADR certificate;
  • the written instructions in a language you understand (what to do in the event of an accident);
  • the transport documents showing the UN numbers and the quantities;
  • the prescribed equipment: including a wheel chock, warning signs, high-visibility vest, eye-rinsing liquid, portable lamp and, depending on the substances, additional protective equipment;
  • fire extinguishers as required by the regulations.

Orange plates and tunnels

  • The vehicle must display the orange plates (with or without numbers, depending on the load).
  • Many tunnels have a tunnel category (B, C, D, E). Before departure, check whether you are allowed to pass through the tunnels on your route with your load.

Your rights

You may refuse to depart if the load, the documents or the equipment are not in order. Report it to your employer in writing. Driving with incomplete ADR equipment can lead to heavy fines for you and your employer.

Sources