At a Glance
- Scope
- 50+ contracting states in Europe and beyond
- Update cycle
- Every 2 years
- Dangerous goods classes
- 9 classes (UN numbers 0001–3550)
- Driver training
- ADR certificate to be renewed every 5 years
What does the ADR govern?
The ADR is updated every two years and is divided into nine parts (general provisions, classification, special provisions, packaging, carriage obligations, transport equipment, conditions of carriage, vehicle crew and equipment, and construction and approval). It defines nine classes of dangerous goods, from explosives (Class 1) to miscellaneous dangerous substances (Class 9).
The nine classes of dangerous goods
Class 1: explosives. Class 2: gases. Class 3: flammable liquids. Class 4: flammable solids. Class 5: oxidising substances. Class 6: toxic and infectious substances. Class 7: radioactive material. Class 8: corrosive substances. Class 9: miscellaneous dangerous substances. Each class carries specific packaging, marking and documentation requirements.
Duties of the consignor and the carrier
The consignor must classify, pack and mark dangerous goods correctly and issue the transport documents. The carrier must hold an ADR certificate (training certificate), the vehicle must be approved, and mandatory equipment (fire extinguisher, warning cones, protective gloves and so on) must be carried. Above certain quantities a dangerous goods safety adviser (DGSA) is mandatory.
Exempt quantities and exceptions
Below certain quantity thresholds (exempt quantities under ADR 1.1.3.6) dangerous goods can be carried under simplified rules or without the full ADR obligations. These exemption limits vary by class and UN number and must be checked for every consignment. Many everyday substances such as batteries, paints and pressurised gas containers fall under the ADR.
