We are approaching the end of the year. That means that the world of dangerous goods transportation must again get ready for changes in international regulations for road/barge/rail, air and sea transport. We would like to tell you about the adaptation cycles of these modes. We also share with you in advance the most important legislative changes.
Every two years there is an update of the regulations for transportation of dangerous goods by road (ADR), inland navigation (ADN) and rail (RID). This will also happen again by January 1, 2025. A transition period of six months applies to these regulations. That means the following: the new 2025 rules are optional to apply as of Jan. 1, but become mandatory on July 1, 2025. Employees in this industry must be aware of the new rules before that date. You can download the most important ADR changes below, courtesy of Stef Fierens, VVA board member.
Maritime transport/IMDG Code
The maritime transport of dangerous goods is governed by the regulations of the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code). This legislation is updated every two years to ensure safety in this industry. Currently in force is Amendment 41-22, which became mandatory on Jan. 1, 2024. The next edition, Amendment 42-24, is already available. From Jan. 1, 2026, this version will become mandatory, but from Jan. 1, 2025, it can already be applied voluntarily. Of the IMDG Code, we have also mapped out the main changes for next year.
Air transport/IATA DGR
Legislation governing the air transport of dangerous goods also changes every year. On Jan. 1, 2025, the new edition of the Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) of aviation trade organization IATA will go into effect. You can find the most important changes and amendments on IATA’s website: https://www.iata.org/contentassets/b08040a138dc4442a4f066e6fb99fe2a/dgr-66-en-significant-changes.pdf. For the most important key updates go to: https://www.iata.org/en/publications/newsletters/iata-knowledge-hub/dangerous-goods-manuals-updates/
Processes under the microscope
Given all these regulatory changes, the end of the year is always a good time to take another look at business processes:
- Are our transport documents up to date?
- Does our equipment meet the latest technical requirements?
- Are our employees adequately trained and certified?
- Are the emergency plans up to date?
Need help with that?
Special Cargo offers you help and support in this regard. We make sure that your team – also in 2025 – works according to the latest rules and is well prepared to enter the new year. Whether it concerns safe operations in the transport chain, training or an audit: with Special Cargo you have come to the right place. Just get in touch to discuss what we can do for you, or go to our course offerings.
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