Transporting hazardous materials

One of the 4 Freight forwarding and Transport Managers (RETT), is also the Security and Safety Advisor for the transport of hazardous materials. His role is to enhance awareness of security and safety during the transport of hazardous materials under the terms of the Contrat Industriel Transports and to ensure improvements in procedures. He must be up to date with the statutory rules and regulations that govern the transport of hazardous materials. His responsibility and his authority range from the arrival of documents right up to when items are stored in various zones. These zones, classified ‘Seveso’ (European Directive for controlling major industrial hazards), need extremely close attention during operations, to maintain the best level of security and safety. Furthermore, Customs Officers may intervene at any time and demand that the various propellant containers be weighed, to check that the documents supplied are accurate.

To coordinate transport, the Freight Forwarding and Transport Manager keeps in contact with the Safety Coordination Office (BCS). He ensures that national and international regulations and CSG procedures are complied with for each movement of hazardous material. These materials include propellants, pyrotechnic products and also chemicals such as solvents, paints, gases and fluids. In this wide ranging group, the main risks are due to toxic and pyrotechnic materials.

Since each means of transport has its own regulations, the Freight Forwarding and Transport Manager has to carry out various checks before actually taking charge of hazardous products. Each shipment is treated in an unique way, decided upon in partnership with the Safety and Security departments and the various people involved, to ensure the greatest safety for the operation. The Technical Transport Manager also liaises with satellite customers to guide and advise them, to prepare for and ensure a successful outcome of the operations.

Each transport operation is unique as hazardous material demands the involvement of several participants to protect people and property until the operation is successfully completed. Some propellants, in particular, are known as “dual use”, both civil and military, and require very strict supervision procedures for their transportation. Thus the resources mobilised for moving the equipment is impressive: as participants in the safety plan and procedures, local authorities such as the Harbour Master’s Office, the Prefecture and also the Fire Brigade are all involved and on standby. The BSC starts and coordinates the safety procedures, after receiving notice from the Technical Transport Manager.

Similarly, for inter-site transportation, the RETT is in charge of compiling the documentation, mobilising the equipment and manpower required and checking that they are all adequate for the operation, and that regulations are followed.