The term "ADR" refers to the "Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road". It is a treaty that governs the transportation of hazardous materials over roads across Europe, aiming to enhance safety and establish common rules to ensure international transport operations are safe.
The ADR framework includes provisions on:
- Classification of hazardous materials: Determining the categories of dangerous goods (e.g., explosives, flammable liquids, toxic substances) and assigning specific rules for their transport.
- Packaging and tank requirements: Standards for the containers and packaging used to transport hazardous materials to ensure they are secure and resistant to leaks or damages during transport.
- Vehicle and transportation equipment specifications: Guidelines on the types of vehicles and transport equipment that are suitable for carrying hazardous goods.
- Documentation: Requirements for the proper documentation accompanying transported goods, including identification of the cargo, hazard classification, and emergency response actions in case of accidents.
- Safety measures: Including labeling, use of placards, and emergency response plans to mitigate risks associated with the transport of dangerous goods.
The ADR regulations are crucial for ensuring that hazardous waste and other dangerous materials are transported safely across different nations, minimizing risks to transporters, the public, and the environment. The treaty is updated regularly to adapt to new safety research, changes in industrial practices, and technological advancements in transport and materials handling.