Dangerous Stuff - Hazardous Substances

Most of the information in this section has been taken from "The International Freight Guide" with the kind permission of the British International Freight Association.

Responsibility
The Regulations
1. Classification: the Substance
2. Packing
3. Marks and Labelling
4. Documentation
Conclusion

4. Documentation

In most instances it will be the supplier/shipper or consignor that is responsible for completing the declaration or documentation that is passed

Road / International road

Whilst there is no prescribed document, the details must be declared in writing and supported by Transport Emergency Instructions/ Tremcard. In practice, the declaration used to comply with the Sea (IMDG) Regulations is the form most practical to use to comply with the declaration.

Sea

The Dangerous Goods Shipping Note in common usage complies with the format required for sea freight. This will often be supplemented by Transport Emergency Instructions to comply with the domestic road delivery and the regulations of the port and harbour authorities. Often overlooked, these separate Regulations require pre-advice of the receipt of hazardous substances by the port/harbour and terminal operators.

Within the document is a separate declaration that relates to the packing, segregation and stowage of hazardous substances within containers and trailers. This is often referred to as the "last loaders declaration" and should always be completed by the person who actually undertakes the loading. It should not, as many shippers do, even when they are not loading, be signed in advance!

Air

Airlines require the completion of the Shipper's Restricted Article Declaration, a document that in no circumstances should be completed by a forwarder. This may well require supporting details in compliance with IMDG/ADR if the substances are delivered by trailer to a European hub, to connect with their flight.

In completing the documentation and the respective declarations, it should be noted that these are personal declarations they all commence "1". They should never be signed by individuals who are unaware of their responsibilities and who do not have the means of verifying the statement made.

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