The importance of limiting transportation of dangerous goods accidents in Quebec

The importance of limiting transportation of dangerous goods accidents in Quebec

Consequences of an accident involving a vehicle transporting dangerous goods can be serious for those involved and the environment.

This is why the Ministère des Transport du Québec works with industry representatives and the government to reduce the number of accidents. They do so by implementing emergency measures and making them known to people in the industry. Effective communication between stakeholders, for example via public information documents, is therefore a major priority.

The Transportation of Dangerous Substances Regulation is also often updated. We make sure to always be aware of changes in regulations since we provide an explosives transport service in the province.

Here is what you need to know about the transportation of dangerous goods regulations in 2020.

What are the transportation of dangerous goods regulations in Quebec?

The transportation of dangerous goods, such as flammable, corrosive, explosive or toxic substances, is governed by legislation in Quebec to protect the population and environment. The Ministère du Transport du Québec’s Transportation of Dangerous Substances Regulation follows the Government of Canada’s guidelines.

Of the 100,000 cars and trucks inspected by the province’s road traffic inspectors, around 3000 transport dangerous goods, which is why those in the industry must comply with provincial regulations.

Here are the key points to remember.

Who has to abide by the dangerous goods regulations?

The Quebec regulation applies to all those who use the province’s road network while in possession of dangerous goods and materials.

Although there are regulation exemptions based on the type or quantity of substance involved, the regulation applies to operators, owners, drivers and shippers.

Transport Econo Nord is obviously concerned since the transportation of explosives is one of the many road transport services that we offer.

Which goods are considered dangerous?

The classification of dangerous goods is split into 9 classes in Quebec.

• Class 1: Explosives
• Class 2: Gases
• Class 3: Flammable Liquids
• Class 4: Flammable Solids
• Class 5: Oxidizing Substances and Organic Peroxides
• Class 6: Toxic and Infectious Substances
• Class 7: Radioactive Materials
• Class 8: Corrosives
• Class 9: Miscellaneous Products, Substances or Organisms

Each of these classes has its own regulations and transporting some of them may require special certification.

How to comply with Quebec law

There are two main rules to comply with:

• Have undergone training: Not everyone can drive a vehicle carrying dangerous goods. You must have a training certificate and be able to provide proof during an inspection by having a copy of the official document with you.
• Clearly indicate possession of dangerous goods: Anyone who has hazardous materials in their vehicle must show, by means of labels or plates, that they are in possession of dangerous goods. If a shipper uses a carrier, they must be able to present written proof containing the following elements: the name and address of the shipper, the date the document was delivered, the description and quantity of each dangerous substance, the number of containers and contact information of the shipper.

Who controls and regulates the transportation of dangerous goods in Quebec?

The Contrôle routier Québec (CRQ) is a law enforcement agency that operates under the responsibility of the Ministère des Transports du Québec and is affiliated with the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec. It is responsible for monitoring and controlling road transportation and enforcing the laws and regulations governing the industry.

The face of the agency: road traffic inspectors

Road traffic inspectors patrol all of Quebec to improve the safety of road users and ensure competitive equity between transportation companies. They are therefore authorized to conduct inspections on any truck transport service.

100,000 inspections per year in Quebec

Many audits take place each year at strategic locations on the province’s road network. They inspect approximately 100,000 vehicles per year. Inspections can include checking the materials transported by the trucker and more since agents can conduct different types of roadside inspections.

Transport Econo Nord for safer transportation of dangerous goods

In conclusion, complying to measures enacted by the Quebec government is mandatory to limit the risk of accidents, but successfully meeting these standards can be difficult.

At Transport Econo Nord, transporting dangerous goods safely has always been one of our priorities. From product storage to delivery, all processes are highly regulated and comply with legislation. Contact us if you need an experienced partner with perfect knowledge of the transportation of dangerous goods regulations.