Shipping dangerous goods (DG) might sound straightforward, but in reality, it’s a tricky business. There are a lot of things that can go wrong, from incorrect paperwork to faulty packaging. While mishaps can happen, they’re often preventable, and each one teaches us valuable lessons. Let’s talk about some common problems in DG shipping and what we can do to avoid them.

1. Missing or Incorrect Documentation

First off, let’s talk about paperwork. We all know that paperwork can be a pain, but when it comes to dangerous goods, it’s absolutely essential. One of the most common problems is incomplete or incorrect documentation. If you don’t have the right paperwork, your goods might not even make it past customs, or worse, they could be flagged as hazardous by the wrong authorities.

What Went Wrong:

Maybe the forms were filled out wrong, or you forgot to include a required certificate. Whatever the case, without the right documentation, your shipment could get delayed, or worse, rejected. This could lead to penalties or a very unhappy customer.

What We Learned:

Always double-check your paperwork before shipping. Use a checklist, keep your forms organized, and make sure everyone involved knows exactly what documents are needed. A little extra time upfront can save a ton of headaches later.

2. Poor Packaging or Labeling

Next up, we have packaging and labelling. It’s one thing to have the right paperwork, but if your goods aren’t packed correctly or labelled properly, you’re just asking for trouble. Imagine this: you’re shipping hazardous materials without using the correct containers or failing to add the right hazard symbols. Not only could it be dangerous, but it’s also a regulatory no-no.

What Went Wrong:

Improperly packaged or poorly labelled goods could cause a spill, a chemical reaction, or even an accident during transport. A small mistake here could lead to some pretty serious consequences. And, if the labels aren’t visible or clear, emergency responders might not know how to handle the situation if something goes wrong.

What We Learned:

Packaging and labelling are everything when it comes to DG cargo shipping. Always use UN-certified boxes and ensure every container has the right hazard symbols and handling instructions. Don’t skip any steps in the process—proper packaging isn’t just about regulations, it’s about safety.

3. Overloading or Misloading Cargo

Let’s talk about loading. Sounds simple, right? Well, not really. Overloading or misloading cargo is a more common issue than you might think. If you don’t load your dangerous goods the right way, you’re putting both your shipment and the people handling it at risk. Whether it’s a matter of stacking boxes too high or not securing the goods properly, it’s a serious problem.

What Went Wrong:

Improper loading can cause damage to your goods or cause dangerous goods to shift during transport, which could result in spills, accidents, or delays. In the worst-case scenario, a poorly secured shipment could even cause a truck to tip over.

What We Learned:

Make sure your staff are properly trained in loading and unloading dangerous goods. Always follow guidelines on weight limits, stacking, and securing your cargo. It’s not just about getting the job done quickly—it’s about getting it done safely.

4. Forgetting About Vehicle Maintenance

Now, here’s something a lot of people don’t always think about: vehicle maintenance. If you’re transporting dangerous goods, the vehicles used need to be in top shape. Otherwise, you could end up with a mechanical failure that puts everyone at risk.

What Went Wrong:

A truck that’s not well-maintained could break down during transport, which might result in a dangerous spill or delay. Poor maintenance also means a lack of proper safety features, like spill containment systems, that could make all the difference in an emergency.

What We Learned:

Always ensure that the vehicle used for transporting DG is well-maintained. This includes regular checks on safety equipment, brakes, and containment systems. A simple maintenance routine can save lives and avoid costly repairs down the line.

5. Lack of Training for Staff

Handling dangerous goods isn’t a job for just anyone—it requires proper training. Unfortunately, mishaps happen when people don’t have the necessary knowledge to safely manage these materials. Whether it’s handling, loading, or even knowing how to react in an emergency, the lack of proper training can lead to mistakes.

What Went Wrong:

Imagine someone loading hazardous materials onto a truck without fully understanding the potential risks. Or a worker not knowing how to handle a spill safely. These situations can be dangerous not just for the worker but for the entire supply chain.

What We Learned:

Make sure that everyone involved in handling dangerous goods is well-trained. This means providing ongoing education and refresher courses to keep safety top of mind. The more prepared your team is, the safer everyone will be.

6. Ignoring Environmental Conditions

Finally, let’s talk about the environment. Dangerous goods are often sensitive to temperature, humidity, and other weather conditions. Shipping these materials during extreme weather, or not considering the environmental conditions, can lead to disasters.

What Went Wrong:

If dangerous goods are exposed to the wrong temperature or humidity, they could become unstable. For instance, chemicals may react if they’re exposed to excessive heat or moisture, leading to leaks or dangerous fumes.

What We Learned:

Always consider the environmental factors when shipping dangerous goods. Check the forecast and, if needed, invest in climate-controlled containers or vehicles. It’s about protecting both the goods and everyone involved in their transportation.

Conclusion: The Key to Safe DG Shipping is Prevention

Shipping dangerous goods can be tricky, but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be a huge risk. The key is to be proactive. Double-check your paperwork, pack properly, ensure your staff is trained, and take care of the vehicles used for transport. If you follow the proper procedures and learn from these common mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to shipping safely and avoiding costly mishaps.

Remember, it’s all about planning ahead, staying informed, and making safety a priority. Doing that, you can help ensure that your dangerous goods reach their destination without any problems.