Who Needs a Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor (DGSA)?

Moving dangerous goods can be risky. It can harm people, damage property, and hurt the environment. To lower these risks and follow safety rules, some businesses must hire a Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor (DGSA). This article explains what a DGSA does, which companies need one, when a DGSA may not be needed, and what can happen if a business does not follow the rules.

What Is a DGSA and Why Is the Role Important?

A Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor (DGSA) is a certified expert. They help businesses safely transport hazardous materials. Their main jobs are to check if companies follow safety rules. They also conduct risk assessments and prepare annual reports. If there are any incidents with dangerous goods, the DGSA investigates them. This role is vital. It helps protect people, property, and the environment.

Legal Requirement: When Is a DGSA Mandatory?

The Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations require some businesses to have a DGSA.

Activities That Trigger the Requirement

Certain activities mean a business must hire a DGSA. These activities include:

• Sending dangerous goods for transport.

• Carrying dangerous goods by road.

• Packing, filling, loading, or unloading dangerous goods.

These activities apply to different ways of transport, like road, rail, inland waterways, sea, and air.

Types of Companies and Sectors That Need a DGSA

Many industries must have a DGSA. These include:

• Transport Companies: This includes road hauliers, shipping firms, and freight forwarders that move hazardous materials.

• Manufacturers and Distributors: These are companies that make or supply dangerous goods.

• Warehouses and Fulfillment Centers: These facilities store or handle hazardous substances.

• Breakdown Recovery Services: These operators deal with vehicles carrying dangerous goods.

• Consignees: These businesses receive dangerous goods as part of their work.

Exemptions: When You Might Not Need a DGSA

Some businesses may not need to hire a Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor (DGSA) in certain situations.

Situations Where Exemptions Apply

Exemptions can include:

• Small Quantity Thresholds: Transporting dangerous goods that are below specific quantity limits.

• Limited and Occasional Transport: Handling dangerous goods infrequently, like by breakdown recovery vehicles.

• Specific Operational Scenarios: Moving dangerous goods over short distances, such as between buildings on an industrial estate.

Example Scenarios of Exemption

Here are some examples:

• Internal Movements: Transferring hazardous materials within one site without using public roads.

• Low-Risk Substances: Handling materials classified as low-risk and below exemption thresholds.

• Third-Party Compliance Cover: Using outside contractors who take on the DGSA responsibilities.

Risks of Operating Without a Required DGSA

Not hiring a DGSA when needed can lead to:

• Legal Penalties: Fines or prosecution for not following safety regulations.

• Insurance and Liability Issues: Insurance policies may become void, and liability may increase if an incident occurs.

• Health, Safety, and Environmental Hazards: There is a higher risk of accidents that can harm people and damage the environment.

How to Determine If Your Business Needs a DGSA

To see if your organization needs a DGSA, consider the following steps:

• Evaluate Activities: Check if your operations involve sending, transporting, packing, filling, loading, or unloading dangerous goods.

• Analyze Quantities: Find out if the amounts handled exceed exemption thresholds.

• Consider Transport Modes: Identify which modes of transport you use and what rules apply to them.

You can consult a professional DGSA or relevant authorities for more guidance on your obligations.

Appointing a DGSA: Options and Best Practices

When you decide to appoint a DGSA, you have options:

• Internal Appointment: Train an existing employee to become a certified DGSA.

• External Consultant: Hire an outside DGSA to fulfill the role.

The DGSA you appoint is responsible for making sure your company follows the rules. They will conduct regular audits, provide staff training, and maintain proper documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do I need a DGSA if I only store dangerous goods?
A: If your storage includes activities like loading or unloading that are part of transport, you may need a DGSA.

Q: Can one DGSA cover multiple sites?
A: Yes, one DGSA can manage several sites. They must be able to perform their duties effectively at all locations.

Q: What happens if my business grows and crosses a threshold?
A: If your operations grow and exceed the exemption thresholds, you must hire a DGSA to stay compliant.

Q: Is DGSA advice needed during emergency or breakdown transport?
A: Occasional transport, like that by breakdown recovery vehicles, may not need a DGSA. However, it is wise to seek advice.

Conclusion

Understanding your duties for transporting and handling dangerous goods is key to staying compliant and safe. If your business is involved in consigning, packing, loading, unloading, or transporting hazardous materials, you likely need to hire a Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor (DGSA).

Even if you think you qualify for an exemption, it’s crucial to carefully review your activities. Seek professional help if you are unsure. Not following the rules can lead to serious legal, financial, and safety problems.

Hiring a DGSA, whether from within your team or from outside, not only ensures compliance but also improves safety in operations. It also helps with training and builds confidence in your supply chain.