A dangerous good (DG) is a substance with hazardous qualities that can harm people and/or property. These qualities may be corrosive, flammable, combustible, explosive, oxidising, water reactive, toxic or have other similar traits. Examples include petrol, kerosene, hydrochloric acid, LP gas, asbestos, and carbon dioxide.
In Australia there are many standards, acts and regulations concerning dangerous goods. These cover manufacture, supply, transport, handling and storage.
“Safe storage can be as simple as using a dedicated DG storage cabinet or cage to meet the requirements set out by Australian Standards".
For manufacturers and suppliers, duties include:
• Determination of whether a good is dangerous. For a manufacturer this must occur before the good is made, and for a supplier, before it is supplied.
• Classifying a dangerous good according to relevant regulations.
• Packing, marking, and labelling according to relevant regulations.
• Preparing relevant safety data documentation.
For storage and handling, some of the main requirements of risk control are:
• The provision of induction, information, training, and supervision for workers.
• Possession of the relevant safety data documentation.
• Informing all visitors about on-site requirements (this includes safety signs).
• The use of equipment and facilities that meet relevant regulations.
“Safe storage can be as simple as using a dedicated DG storage cabinet or cage to meet the requirements set out by Australian Standards,” says Mike Carrigg of Spill Crew Australia. “For an extra layer of certainty, Australian Made DG cabinets and cages are purpose built for Australian environments and regulations.”
For the latest information, contact the relevant organisations in your state or territory.
