What is a Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser (DGSA)?

Dangerous Goods Safety Advisers (DGSA) are qualified to provide advice on the safe transport of dangerous goods and to ensure that companies are complying with the various regulations which govern this. DGSAs play a crucial role in helping employers protect employees, the public, and the environment from the hazards posed by the transportation of dangerous goods.

Dangerous goods are grouped in classes,1 to 9, based on the hazard that they present, with each class having different requirements depending on the mode of transport being used.

Although DGSAs are strictly a requirement for road transport, ARPS DGSAs are trained and competent to advise on other modes of transport including sea and air.

A DGSA must:

• Monitor your compliance with the requirements governing the carriage of dangerous goods
• Advise you on the safe carriage of dangerous goods
• Prepare an annual report on your activities

What will the adviser provide? 

ARPS particular focus is the safe shipment of Class 7 radioactive materials often paired with the provision of RPA services, but we can also advise clients on shipping other classes.

ARPS DGSAs are qualified to act in the UK under a Department for Transport-approved scheme which is certified by the Scottish Qualification Authority (SQA). 

By employing ARPS as a specialist service provider, you will benefit from retained expertise by advisers who are qualified and trained to provide the following: 

• Advice on the transport of dangerous goods and associated security requirements
• Monitoring compliance with all relevant regulations
• Prepare / review transport risk assessments, procedures and work instructions
• Provide an annual report on your business’ activities in relation to the transport of dangerous goods
• Emergency response advice
• Investigate and report any incidents

What are my responsibilities?

Under the Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations 2009 (amended), which enacts the ADR regulations in the UK, your company may need to employ the services of a DGSA. There are some exceptions to this, such as if the goods are in limited quantities, or are only transported occasionally. 

If you are in doubt about whether you require the services of a DGSA, contact our team today.