Dangerous goods include any material that poses an immediate hazard to people, property or the environment. They are present in most businesses, even smaller ones, especially in manufacturing, mining, medical and transport logistics.
Dangerous goods can manifest their harm in a myriad of ways, for example readily combustible materials that can spontaneously burst into flame when not stored or transported properly, or even worse, explode. They can also be poisonous, corrosive, noxious or can suddenly decompose. Even common chemicals found throughout the workplace environment may initially seem harmless, but if they are mishandled or mixed by poorly trained staff, they can suddenly become lethal. One small mistake can lead to a catastrophe.
In addition, industrial workplaces must be designed, constructed and modified to accommodate dangerous goods and restricted products in terms of ventilation, labelling, containers, fire safety precautions, lockable storage, alarms, secure doors and windows, electrical wiring complying with regulations, non-flammable cladding, stand-by medical equipment etc.
Staff must also be trained (and even licensed where applicable) in the proper use, storage, transport, documentation and disposal of hazardous materials. Employees must be aware of the regulations restricting the use of the dangerous goods as many are not permitted to be accessible by the general public. Some of these regulations may be imposed by the state or federal government, but some dangerous goods can be subject to international law.
These issues are the legal responsibility of the employer.
If you are not completely sure about any of these issues, contact one of our qualified professional experts for advice.
There are nine classes of dangerous goods:
- Class 1 Explosives
- Class 2 Gases: Compressed, Liquefied or Dissolved Under Pressure
- 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 Corrosive Substances and Articles
- Class 9 Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods (e.g. genetically modified organisms (GMOs))
At the bottom of this profile are brief details of a number of the experts that Expert Experts represents. Call our office to discuss your requirements and to obtain a recommendation that suits your needs and budget.
Expertise in Action
Experts in the field of dangerous goods and restricted products are often needed to conduct cause and management investigations for litigation following injury, loss or damage.
Experts qualified in the use of dangerous goods and restricted products can determine the specific characteristics and requirements of a business premise to assess whether it is compliant and safe.
They can also bring you up to date with all the relevant laws and practices and keep you informed as things change.
For some fields of expertise we have some sample sections of de-identified reports. Please contact our office if you are interested in a sample.
The overall cost of expert opinion depends on the services required. Some of the key factors that affect the cost of advice include:
- The need for a view or inspection of a location
- The quantity of documentary material to be reviewed
- Whether there are reports of other experts to be reviewed and commented on in detail
- Whether there is a need for conferences with the expert either in person or by telephone/Skype