
Explosive material transportation: what are the various regulations in Quebec?
Because of the obvious risks that a shipment containing explosives can represent, transportation of this type of cargo is highly regulated by the Quebec authorities. This is why it requires qualified personnel and special equipment.
If you want to become familiar with this sector of road transport, here is an overview of the various certifications required by the Sureté du Québec to operate in this area.
Explosives permits
The general explosives permit
Before even thinking about transporting explosives, a company must first apply for a general explosives permit for businesses.
This permit is issued by the Sureté du Québec and requires each shareholder with over 10% of shares to undergo a background check. If any of them has violated a section of the Criminal Code in the last five years, the company could be denied the permit.
Permit to store, sell or transport explosives
Once the company has the general explosives permit, there is yet another permit to acquire before it can transport explosives. This is the permit to store, sell or transport explosives.
This is also issued by the Sureté du Québec, which cannot, however, issue the permit before carrying out a preliminary inspection. This means that the company’s premises, where the explosives will be temporarily stored, must meet stringent safety criteria.
Explosives transportation: authorized drivers
Each driver assigned to transport explosives must hold a special driver’s license issued by the provincial authorities. This includes a photo of the holder, and is only granted following an examination of the applicant’s criminal history.
Trucks used to transport explosive materials
In order to be able to use a truck and trailer to transport explosives, they must be pre-inspected by the provincial police service. Vehicles must also meet the most stringent requirements for fire prevention.
Various types of explosive materials
Once all the various permits are in order, the road transport company can then begin delivering explosives. These can take many forms and are often destined for the mining sector. Routes to regions with a bustling mining industry are sometimes long and uneven, which contributes to the risk factors to consider. Some of the most commonly transported explosive products include:
- Pyrotechnic devices (fireworks)
- Fire arms
- Ammunition
- Military equipment
- Detonators
- Dynamite
- TNT
Find a carrier authorized to transport explosives
If you want to entrust the transport of your explosive materials to a reliable company or learn more about explosive shipment regulations, don’t hesitate to contact Transport Econo Nord. Our team will be happy to answer all your questions and can even provide you with a quote that corresponds to your needs.