Training of Dangerous Goods Drivers in Europe

lways when accidents happen, is the call loud for better training for those responsible for the movement of dangerous goods. This was quite evident, especially after an accident in 1978 at a Spanish campground, where over 200 people were killed by an exploding gas tank truck. The driver of this dangerous goods transporter was at this time not trained and knew almost nothing of the danger of his cargo. At first in Germany and then later in the entire area covered by the “European Agreement concerning the international carriage of dangerous goods by road” (ADR) was laid down that drivers of vehicles loaded with dangerous goods are to receive special training. With regards to the transport of radioactive material, training requirements were stipulated for drivers of vehicles carrying radioactive material classified under schedules: 5 – 13, according to “International Atomic Energy Agency” (IAEA) recommendations. The training is standardized in all 36 ADR contract countries for movements of goods crossing international borders. Here too, the 15 countries of the European Union have standardized training, with no differentiation between national and international transport.