scope:

Scope and purpose

This standard sets out the requirements for the safe transport of dangerous goods on land in road and rail vehicles. It intends to provide:

(a) A means of compliance with the Dangerous Goods Rule; and

(b) A guide to best practice requirements for the safe transport of dangerous goods on land.

The standard is aimed at all those involved in the dangerous goods transport chain including consignors, shippers, packers, freight forwarders and consolidators, loaders and handlers, transport operators and drivers to assist them in complying with the law and undertaking their activities safely and efficiently.

Compliance with the Dangerous Goods Rule and adherence to best practice will ensure the safety and well-being of the community and protection of the environment during the transport and distribution of dangerous goods within New Zealand.

The technical requirements in this standard are based for the most part on the United Nations Recommendations for the Transport of Dangerous Goods - Model Regulations (UNRTDG) - also known as the 'Orange Book' - and the standard references that document extensively throughout. The current version at the time of publication is the 21st revised edition published in 2019. The UNRTDG is updated every two years.

This standard relates to the transport of dangerous goods aboard road and rail vehicles only. Where dangerous goods will be transported on other modes (on an aircraft or a ship) as part of the journey, the requirements for those modes will apply for those sectors.