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Dangerous goods management: definition & important points for buyers

Dangerous goods management protects people, the environment and companies through the safe handling of hazardous substances along the entire supply chain. This structured overview shows purchasers the most important requirements and measures for legally compliant and efficient procurement of dangerous goods.

Dangerous goods management in a nutshell:

Dangerous goods management encompasses all systematic measures for the safe handling, storage and transportation of hazardous substances in accordance with legal regulations and safety standards. This is essential for purchasing, as the correct procurement and handling of hazardous goods ensures legal compliance and minimizes potential risks and liability consequences.

Example: A chemical company implements a digital dangerous goods management system that automatically generates the required dangerous goods classes, packaging regulations and transport documents in accordance with ADR guidelines when 500 liters of corrosive liquid are procured and informs the responsible dangerous goods officer for approval.

Contents

Dangerous goods management is an essential part of logistics and transportation that deals with the safe handling and transportation of dangerous goods in accordance with regulations. Due to the potential risks to people and the environment, this area is subject to strict national and international regulations. Professional dangerous goods management is essential to ensure the safety of all parties involved and to comply with legal requirements. This guide provides you with a comprehensive overview of the most important aspects of dangerous goods management, from basic regulations to practical implementation strategies and safety measures.

What is dangerous goods management?

Dangerous goods management refers to the systematic planning, monitoring and control of the handling of dangerous goods in the context of transportation, storage and disposal. It includes all measures aimed at minimizing risks to people, the environment and property. Legal provisions and international regulations such as ADR, RID or the IMDG Code must be strictly adhered to in order to ensure compliance and avoid liability risks.

Core elements of dangerous goods management

  • Classification: Identification and classification of substances according to their hazard characteristics
  • Labeling and packaging: Use of prescribed hazard labels, labels and suitable packaging
  • Documentation: Preparation of transport documents and safety data sheets
  • Training: Regular instruction of employees in handling hazardous goods
  • Significance for purchasing

    Dangerous goods management is of central importance in purchasing, as procurement decisions have a direct impact on the company's safety and compliance. Buyers must ensure that suppliers meet legal requirements and that dangerous goods are delivered safely and in accordance with regulations. In addition, dangerous goods management influences transportation costs through special packaging and transport requirements.

  • Supplier selection: Evaluation of the dangerous goods competence and reliability of suppliers
  • Compliance assurance: integration of dangerous goods regulations into purchasing processes and contracts
  • Cost optimization: Negotiation of conditions taking into account special requirements
  • Guide: Professional dangerous goods management for safe transportation and storage

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    Dangerous goods management: From manual processes to EHS management systems

    Building on the importance of dangerous goods management for the safe and compliant handling of hazardous materials, it is clear that the practical implementation of these processes is essential for companies. Traditionally, dangerous goods management has been based on manual processes that are prone to errors and inefficiencies. In today's complex and regulated environment, the need for efficient, digital systems to minimize risk and ensure compliance is increasing. Therefore, a transition from manual processes to integrated EHS management systems is necessary to meet the challenges.

    Old: Manual dangerous goods management

    Traditional approach: Traditional dangerous goods management relies heavily on manual processes and paper documentation. Employees manually record information on hazardous substances, classify them and keep physical records of storage, transportation and disposal. Communication between departments often takes place by email or telephone, and legal documents such as safety data sheets are kept in physical folders. This approach is time-consuming and prone to human error, leading to compliance breaches, safety risks and inefficient processes.

    Conclusion on dangerous goods management

    Dangerous goods management is a complex but indispensable part of modern business processes. Success lies in the systematic integration of compliance requirements, qualified employees and digitalized processes. While implementation may initially be complex and cost-intensive, effective dangerous goods management not only ensures legal compliance, but also creates long-term competitive advantages through optimized processes and minimized risks. Especially in purchasing, a strategic approach that takes into account all safety aspects and regulatory requirements is crucial for sustainable corporate success.

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