NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Cancels a Driver's Dangerous Goods Licence.

In August 2019, HAZCON released a Blog article titled, Dangerous Goods in Tunnels, which was released by austroads.com.au that highlighted work has commenced on assessing the risks of carrying dangerous goods through tunnels.

In October 2019, the driver was caught driving a tanker transporting approximately 32,000 litres of Flammable Liquid (petrol) through Sydney's Airport and M5 East tunnels, which is banned under the current legislation.

Cancelling the truck driver's dangerous goods licence after multiple rule breaches is a first for the state, according to the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA).

The driver was cited for not displaying the necessary Class 3 Flammable Liquid placards on his vehicle. While drivers are permitted to transport combustible liquids (diesel) through NSW tunnels, dangerous goods vehicles are prohibited from travelling in any tunnels.

In Australia, any tank vehicle carrying bulk dangerous goods, or residues of dangerous goods, is required by law to display placards. This current prosecution should act as a warning to people neglecting their responsibilities on our roads, break the rules and the applicable authority will take appropriate regulatory action.

As previously mentioned in the 2019 blog article, company's and third-party drivers are struggling with the current legislation such as, the Australian Dangerous Goods Code Edition 7.6 for the Transport of Dangerous Goods by Road and Rail.

Operators must make every reasonable effort to provide their workers with sufficient information, training, and instruction when handling, storing and transporting dangerous goods.