Legal Updates
With the purpose of giving an updated technical basis for the transport sector and shippers of dangerous goods, the National Transport Commission (NTC) released an amended edition of the Australian Dangerous Goods Code (ADGC).
The Edition 7.3 of the ADGC is said to be of utmost importance to respective sectors because it integrates a couple of significant changes to the old edition. These changes include but are not limited to the following:
- Clarification and clear understanding of the description of dangerous goods
- The addition of new materials to the list of dangerous goods
- The requirement of minimum sizes for dangerous goods markings in relation to large packages
- As to the transportation of dangerous goods via vehicles, the Code outlines a clearer guidance on documentary requirements (How and where transport vehicles are kept on a vehicle)
Furthermore, the amendments shown above are in line with the 17th Edition of the United Nations Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods Model Regulations.
NTC CEO Paul Retter commented about the amendments made. He said, “While this is an incremental upgrade rather than a complete revision of the code I encourage everyone involved in transporting dangerous goods to look at this new edition and the laws in their state and refresh their knowledge.”
The NTC CEO also said that the Edition 7.3 of the ADGC is good news for Australia’s importers and exporters as Australia’s dangerous goods requirements were now much more in line with those overseas. It cuts red tape and gave them much greater certainty. He also emphasised the need of examining the amended Code in relation to specific dangerous goods legislation that applies to individual states or territories.
Mr. Retter pointed out the responsibility of the persons who are in the business of transporting dangerous goods, “Everyone who uses Australia’s roads and other transport networks has a responsibility to keep themselves and the travelling public safe.”
“This code will help people transporting dangerous goods comply with the laws that are designed to keep them from harm.”
Finally, as expression of his gratitude to the people who made the amendments possible, Mr. Retter said, “I would like to thank the transport industry, dangerous goods experts, safety experts and government authorities who provided their know-how to help us provide this useful technical resource.”