Handling and ferrying dangerous goods require adherence to certain safety protocols and rules to mitigate risks related with it. Proper classification, packaging and labelling are essential to ensure safe transit. Personnel must be trained to recognise hazards, use protective tools, and follow emergency response procedures. Regular audits and risk assessments enhance safety during transportation, ensuring people and environment are protected from potential dangers.
Ritika Arora Bhola
When we talk about Dangerous Goods, the first thing that comes to our mind is ‘Handle with Care’, as transportation of these goods is fraught with risk and danger. Even the slightest negligence or delay may pose risks to health, safety, property, or the environment. These goods can include explosives, toxic substances, flammable and radioactive materials.
In the country, the transportation of dangerous goods presents critical challenges such as regulatory compliance, infrastructure inadequacies, and safety concerns. The country’s diverse geography and varying levels of regional infrastructure can complicate logistics, especially in rural or interior areas.
Risks of mishandling are present despite compliance with regulations set by the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, IATA and ICAO. Lack of awareness and training among transport personnel can exacerbate safety issues, increasing the potential for accidents during transit.
The growing urbanisation and industrialisation in the country heighten the stakes, as densely populated areas become more vulnerable to incidents involving hazardous materials. Effective management, strict adherence to safety protocols, and continuous training are crucial to mitigating these criticalities in dangerous goods transportation across the country.
CARGOTALK speaks to industry leaders who have expertise, knowledge and experience in transporting and handling dangerous goods about the challenges, and recent advancements to expedite efficiency and resiliency of the supply chain.
We accord top priority to training of employees
Keku Bomi Gazdar, CEO and MD, Aviapro Logistic
“One needs to emphasise on critical importance of implementing a comprehensive framework for safely handling dangerous goods. Materials or items with hazardous properties are packaged correctly and labeled with the required international markings as is providing personal protective equipment (PPE) to the customers. The essential establishments with secure storage protocols and developed detailed emergency response plans all adhering strictly to airline regulations. By encouraging a culture of open communication about safety practices one can ensure the protection of our employees, the public, and the environment. We understand the importance of effective training programs for employees handling dangerous goods is of utmost importance. For managing cargo operations at the pan-India level we have conducted D.G CAT 6 training for our staff from a reputed D.G training institute approved by DGCA and a majority of our staff are CAT 06 qualified. Training for DG CAT 6 (Dangerous Goods Category 6) focuses on the safe handling, and transportation of dangerous goods, specifically those that are considered ‘Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods.’ One of our top priorities is to optimise our logistics network to reduce risk while in transit. We can successfully improve the resilience and efficiency of our logistics network by working in strategic collaborations with suppliers and sharing resources amongst enterprises. We can streamline operations while upholding a high degree of safety thanks to this cooperative approach. We also place a high priority on continuous safety procedure training for our staff members to make sure they are equipped to address any issues that may arise during transportation. To handle a variety of circumstances, we have also created extensive emergency plans that allow us to react to any events quickly and efficiently.”
Ferrying DG in limited quantities reduces risk
C.K. Govil, Chairman and Managing Director Activair Airfreight
Conducting risk assessments to identify high-risk areas along transportation routes—accident-prone zones, weather challenges, political instability. Use route optimisation software that aids in real-time traffic, weather, and risk data to choose the safest routes for ferrying dangerous goods. Implement segmentation strategies based on the nature of goods, ensuring DG are transported separately or in limited quantities to minimise potential hazards. For transport, segregation of goods, as per their compatibility, ensure incompatible items, flammable liquids and oxidisers, are never ferried together. Ensure DG is packed using UN-certified packaging meets global safety standards.”
Proper packaging to prevent leaks & spills
Prakash Singh, COO, Jeena Criticare Logistics
Handling dangerous goods requires strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent accidents and to ensure the safety of our personnel, equipment, and the environment. To maintain our commitment to safety and compliance and to ensure proper compliance, Jeena makes sure that each branch has a DG-certified person to handle DG shipments. While handling DG shipments, Jeena ensures proper classification of goods as per the hazard class with proper labeling and marking to identify the nature of the risk involved. This is followed by proper packaging standards to prevent leaks, spills, or contamination during transportation.”
Minimising risks lead to resilient supply chain
Afzal Malbarwala Managing Director, Galaxy Freight
Optimising a logistics network to minimise risk during transport involves a multifaceted approach. Strategies include the use of advanced algorithms and GPS technology to identify the most efficient routes. Major factors include implementation of tracking systems to monitor shipments in real-time, gathering data on vehicle condition, cargo status, conducting risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities in the logistics network to minimise risk. Other factors include regularly reviewing risk management strategies. Utilising multiple transport modes to reduce dependency on a single method. By integrating these strategies, we can minimise risks.”
Safety rules vital during ‘port-to-CFS’ for DG
Rahul Acharekar, Assistant Vice President Operations, Allcargo Terminals
At our Container Freight Station (CFS), we have adopted comprehensive safety protocols for managing hazardous goods. The regulations and guidance of various competent authorities such as customs and pollution control boards among others provides the framework. Regular system-based checks and other precautions are followed for dangerous goods’ designated and segregated areas. Safety measures are reinforced in toolbox and other regular meetings thereby promoting a culture of vigilance and zero-tolerance for non-compliance. To minimise risks, we work closely with our air transport partners and reiterate process adherence during the ‘port-to-CFS’ transit phase.”
Chance of human error in DG is major risk factor
Kritika Seth, Head, Business Development, Allied Aviation
Minimising risk in DG transport is about building a strong and smart safety net. The first thing we need is clear SOPs and Service Level Agreements. These act as the foundation, making sure everyone involved—be it shippers, ground handlers, among others in the logistics chain—follows the safety guidelines. But real-time tracking and monitoring systems are game changers. With these in place, we can resolve issues before they escalate. Whether it is IATA or GSSAs, having the right certifications for handling DG ensures everyone knows the safety needs. This reduces the chances of human error, a major risk factor in the logistics of hazardous materials.”
Labelling, documentation slashes scope of exposure
Vikram Mansukhani Chief of Operations, Blue Dart Express
To minimise risk during transport, logistics networks can adopt advanced technologies to ensure vehicles and equipment are in optimal condition. Precise location technologies help reduce risk of missing deliveries, while automation avoids delays and breakdowns. Investing in workforce training on safety protocols and risk management enhances operational efficiency and helps mitigate potential risks throughout the supply chain. To ensure safety, Blue Dart employs screening tech that can detect dangerous items during transportation. Labelling of goods and documentation is needed to provide transparency about the shipment’s contents.”
We keep designated areas for DG to enhance safety
Gubba Kiran, CEO, Gubba Cold Storage
Our teams are trained in IATA rules, which governs the transportation of DG worldwide. This training is complemented by sessions on Material Safety Data Sheets, keeping our team well-informed about the safety protocols for various products. In our warehouses, products are segregated based on compatibility, adhering to Australian Dangerous Goods and Globally Harmonised System standards. This segregation minimises the risk of hazardous reactions, creating a safer environment for all. To enhance safety, we maintain designated areas for storing HAZMAT. This segregation helps prevent contamination.”
Improper identification of DG is main problem
Radharamanan Panicker, Managing Director Dangerous Goods Management India
There is a global regulatory framework for handling and transportation of DG with UN Model recommendation for safe transportation of DG, regulations are IMDG code for ocean cargo and ICAO Technical Instructions for air, based and aligned with IATA DGR. India has ratified both these regulations for application in India. Based on these regulations, airlines and shipping have their system aligned in order to ensure DG transportation is handled properly. But we need to understand, the problem arises from what is not declared as DG. Lack of risk assessment, requiring expertise for ferrying, is the main challenge.”
Mock drills are held to test team’s awareness
Rajesh Gupte, Manager, National Operations, Rhenus Logistics India
Safety measures for handling DG include key elements to ensure a secure warehouse environment. Compliant warehouse designs feature trenches to direct chemical spills into containment pits and areas for managing damaged goods. Facilities, such as those operated by Rhenus, are equipped with firefighting systems and emergency response tools, supported by Emergency Response Plans. Storage layouts are planned to keep non-compatible products segregated in specific zones. Rhenus warehouses has a containment pit, serving as a safety measure to prevent dangerous goods from contaminating the environment, or posing risks to workers.”
Warehouses to cut risk to products during transit
Swarup Bose, Founder & CEO, Celcius Logistics
To optimise our logistics network and minimise transport risks, we are establishing a network of warehouses nationwide. This initiative enhances our contingency management capabilities, allowing for the storage of shipments close to their delivery points and safeguarding product quality during unforeseen events. We are also expanding into tier II cities, creating a pan-India network of clients and vendors to enhance operations. Heavy investments in advanced technology for transportation and warehouse management will enhance efficiency and reduce product wastage. We are streamlining processes and improving handling practices.”
HAZMAT training for handlers vital for transit
Mahendra Shah, CMD, V Trans
The industry’s need for safe chemical storage and handling solutions has led to the creation of CHEMSTORE by V-Logis for DG, adhering to global standards. CHEMSTORE ensures proper segregation of HAZMAT, climate-controlled storage, and clear labelling supported by MSDS documentation. Staff are imparted training in handling, safety, and emergency response. Equipped with advanced fire suppression systems, CHEMSTORE prioritises human health, environmental protection, and efficiency, setting a new benchmark for chemical warehousing solutions. Our hands-on approach ensures employees retain safety protocols with thorough safety assessments.”
