ADR (Dangerous Goods)

What is ADR?

ADR (Dangerous Goods) is an international agreement governing the cross-border transport of dangerous goods by road. It includes detailed regulations for road transport, especially concerning packaging, load securing, and labeling of hazardous materials.

Until 2020, the official name of ADR was “Accord européen relatif au transport international des marchandises Dangereuses par Route.” To allow non-European countries to join the agreement, the title was changed to the more neutral “Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road.” The abbreviation ADR remains unchanged and is now used internationally.

History of the ADR Agreement

The agreement was adopted in Geneva in 1957 and entered into force in January 1968. It is updated every two years to reflect the latest technical and legal developments.

Today, all EU countries and many other European and non-European states – including Morocco, Tunisia, and several Central Asian countries – are members of ADR. In total, 48 countries have signed the agreement (as of June 2017). Within the EU, ADR is legally binding through an EU regulation.

Regulations for the Transport of Dangerous Goods

• ADR Training Certificate: All drivers transporting dangerous goods must hold a valid ADR training certificate (commonly referred to as the “ADR license”). It is valid for five years and must be renewed through a refresher course.

• Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser (DGSA): Companies regularly transporting hazardous materials must appoint at least one DGSA responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations.

• Vehicle Equipment: Trucks transporting dangerous goods must be specially equipped – including foldable orange warning signs, helmet, safety goggles, and two fire extinguishers.