Environment law update: Transport and labelling of waste and hazardous substances 6

United Kingdom

Air transport

The Air Navigation (Dangerous Goods) Regulations 2002 (SI 2002 No 2786) came into force on 2 December 2002. They revoke and replace the Air Navigation (Dangerous Goods) Regulations 1994 (SI 1994 No 3187), as amended. The new Regulations introduced a number of new definitions and requirements for operators of aircraft carrying dangerous goods, including a requirement to notify the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of any dangerous goods carried on an aircraft that is involved in an accidental incident. Comprehensive requirements are also introduced for the training of staff, which is the responsibility of shippers, operators, and for non-UK operators, their agents. In addition, there are also obligations for airport operators and those selling flight accommodation on aircraft used for public transport to ensure that passengers are warned of the types of dangerous goods which they are forbidden to carry. There are several other provisions including those applying to documentation.
(SO, 11 November 2002)

European Union

Road transport

A Commission Decision deferring the deadlines fixed in an EU Directive on the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road (94/55/EC) on technical specifications relating to the construction, use and conditions of carriage of pressure drums, cylinder racks and tanks for the transport of dangerous goods has been published in the Official Journal. The technical specifications are still awaiting standardisation by CEN which is not yet complete. The Decision will apply from 1 July 2001. In the meantime, member states may maintain provisions in force on 31 December 1996.
(OJL 308, 9 November 2002)

Rail transport

The deferral of technical standards for pressure drums, cylinder racks and tanks under the annex to the EU Directive on the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Rail (96/49/EC) have been published in the Official Journal. The deferment is as applied to road transport (see above) and similarly is awaiting the outcome of a CEN committee.
(OJL 308, 9 November 2002)

For further information please contact Paul Sheridan on 020 7367 2186 or at [email protected].