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Safe & secure transportation of dangerous goods

Writer's picture: Team CargoTalkTeam CargoTalk

Transport of dangerous goods by air is governed by rules, safety protocols, frameworks and certifications. Goods are handled and stored safely so as not to impact human health. For firms engaged in ferrying HAZMAT in the Middle East it is mandatory to obtain necessary certifications.


-Dr. Shehara Fernando


The Middle East is a hub for energy and



petrochemical industries with a significant volume of material moving through ports, roads and air as well. The region deals with oil, gas and chemicals among others: Not only the transportation aspect but also the manufacturing plants, hence adhering to the global and regional standards has become imperative.


As HAZMAT poses a risk to the health of people, environment and property, they are classified as explosives, flammable liquids, toxic substances and corrosives. The Middle East region is accessible over land, air and sea hence regulations are in place for each mode of transportation at regional and global level.


One of the most common modes of transportation between countries in the region are trucks or road transportation. There are regulations, which need to be adhered to carry on the business.


ADR Certification is for road transport under the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road, adopted by some Middle Eastern countries.


Among international requirement and certifications, the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) Certification is essential for air cargo operators handling hazardous materials. The UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, establishes globally harmonized classification, labelling, and packaging standards.


Above the international standards, there are GCC Standards where the GCC nations enforce specific dangerous goods transport laws in member states, harmonizing safety practices. These goods also need to take Civil Defense Approvals, as many countries, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, require additional certifications from civil defence authorities for transport and storage.


Training in HAZMAT handling is another imperative requirement where employees handling dangerous goods must complete certified training on packaging, labelling, and emergency response. Another important aspect is the ISO certification.


The ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety Management), while not specific to hazardous materials, ensures safety compliance in handling and transport operations. Professionals from the field shared the importance and the compliance procedures with CARGOTALK.



Training is mandatory to handle dangerous goods

A.S. Azimi, MD and CEO, Azimi Cargo and Logistics


Transportation of dangerous goods in the Middle East follows global frameworks such as the IMDG Code, IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR), and ADR for road transport. Regulations vary by country. Key certifications include IATA Dangerous Goods certification for cargo handlers and International Maritime Dangerous Goods certification for maritime transport. These ensure compliance with classification, labelling, documentation, and emergency procedures.


DG regulations vary from country to country

Martin Bremen, Managing Director, DIMOS


Transportation of dangerous goods in the Middle East is governed by rules for safety, security, and environmental protection. Adherence of IMDG Code for sea freight, the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations for transport by air, and countryspecific regulations such as the UAE’s Federal Law No. 24 of 1999 is a must. Training such as IATA DG Training for air transport or ADR Certification for road transport must be imparted to those who handle them.


Compliance with rules must to avoid penalties

Ayah Al Bidh, PR and Marketing Manager, Orbit Logistics


In the Middle East, transportation of dangerous goods is governed by global and regional regulations. The framework includes UN R e commendations on Transport of Dangerous Goods, which many nations adhere to. The International Maritime Organisation and IATA have set parameters for sea and air transport, respectively. When it comes to certifications, firms involved in transport of dangerous goods need to obtain a Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor certification.


Certification to ferry HAZMAT valid for 2 yrs

Prem Sagar, Group GM, Al Rais Travel & Shipping Agencies


Transporting dangerous goods in the Middle East follows international rules such as IATA DGR for air and IMDG Code for sea freight along with local regulations. These ensure safe handling, packaging, labeling, and documentation. Some countries may require approvals for materials, with key documents such as MSDS and DG declarations being mandatory. Handling dangerous goods requires certifications such as IATA DGR.


Nations in ME mulling to implement ADR

Anbu Selvan, Head, HSE & DG, IMEA, CEVA Logistics


IATA DGR governs the safe transport of dangerous goods by air, detailing their classification, packaging, marking, labeling, and documentation standards. Attention must be paid for lithium

batteries’ transport. Standalone lithium batteries are prohibited as cargo on passenger aircraft. Electronic devices containing inbuilt lithium batteries can be ferried, subject to airline approval. While the ADR isn’t adopted in the ME for transportation by road, some na


Organisations must conduct self-assessment

Afsal K Moidunny, Assistant Manager Operations, Orient Cargo


Shippers are required to classify, pack, and transport dangerous goods in compliance with local and global standards, with documentation such as DGD, MSDS, and transport- specific documents. Approvals are mandatory from aviation, environment, and defence agencies. Forwarders must have certifications and licenses, with GD competency based personnel capable of managing dangerous goods. Rules demand dedicated storage areas, safety tools, and labelling for dangerous goods handling.


UAE has specific norms to handle HAZMAT

Francois Coron, Managing Director UAE, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics L.L.C.


Transporting dangerous goods involves strict regulations to ensure safety and compliance. The region follows global norms but may have additional national regulations. For instance, the UAE has requirements for the import and export of HAZMAT, including obtaining permits and adhering to local safety standards. These certifications ensure firms/individuals handling these goods know about the regulations and safety procedures.

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