www.truckandtrack.com Summer 2026 Truck and Track 37 DANGEROUS GOODS Often, ‘yard’ or FLT Operators will assemble/prepare ‘a load’ for a truck or trailer in advance to loading. It is critical if material is taken from a warehouse, it is kept in a shaded area (to avoid direct sunlight), prior to vehicle loading. Direct Sunlight on metal shipping containers (often used in IMDG shipping) may cause the contents of the container to become dangerously overheated. If a container or closed vehicle unit is unloaded, the doors must be opened gingerly, and then the doors opened fully to allow the unit sufficient time for ventilation, prior to unloading procedures. Metal Containers shipped under IMDG or ADR may get very hot inside due to the (highly thermally conductive) exterior metal surfaces being exposed to direct UV sunlight. IBCs, Drums, Cans within may ‘bow’, leak as well as PRVs (pressure relief valves) being released, so there could be a build-up of vapour or even leaking liquid within the unit - resulting in containers rupturing and the build-up of gases that could be harmful (toxic/ flammable/corrosive etc). Temperature sensitive Dangerous Goods (such as Oxidising Agents class 5.1 and Organic Peroxides class 5.2) when shipped Multimodally (via Sea IMDG and Road/Rail ADR) in refrigerated containers (transport units) – their internal temperatures monitored (documented) while in transit or held in a warehouse/storage location. The Operator must ensure hazardous material are kept away from combustible materials and that you have (periodically reviewed) fire risk assessments, fire alarms, run (and documented) fire drills and trained staff appropriately to the risks presented by hot weather. Robust housekeeping is also essential to avoid potential fire/combustion risks from overflowing bins, pallet debris, wastepaper etc. Remember that heat generated via UV sunlight can make IBCs/drums/cans ‘bow’ as well as rupture causing a release or spillage of flammable, corrosive, toxic or harmful vapours and liquids. Low flash point (especially Packing Group I and II) Class 3 flammable liquids – must be kept away from direct sunlight, and stored in the shade, or under a (heat-resistant) canopy and in a ventilated area (away from combustible material). Considerations for other Flammable Classes of Dangerous Goods Class 4 Flammable and Reactive Solids – like Class 3, these materials must be kept away from direct sunlight in the shade, or under a (heat-resistant) canopy and in a ventilated area (away from combustible material). Remember in a fire situation sub-class 4.3 are ‘Dangerous when Exposed to Water’ - often releasing toxic and flammable vapours when in contact with water. Class 5.1 Oxidising Agents and Class 5.2 Organic Peroxides – must be kept away from direct sunlight in the shade, or under a (heat-resistant) canopy and in a ventilated are (away from combustible material and Class 3 Flammable Liquids). Class 2 Gas Cylinders – must be kept away from direct sunlight and in the shade, or under a (heat-resistant) canopy and placed in a well-ventilated area (away from combustible material). This information is provided in good faith; however you must always discuss such technical matters with your own Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor and Competent Person(s) regarding the vagaries of your specific operations. More information from Dangerous Goods Logistics Professionals > Richard Shreeve of Labeline ADR/IMDG Books, Regulatory Compliance, Documentation & Labelling Tel: 07825 748962 email: compliance@labeline.com www.labeline.com Ali Karim – Technical & Training Consultant Industrial Chemistry/Logistics of Dangerous Goods Tel: 07812 584249 email: akarim1462@aol.com www.linkedin.com/in/ali-karim-37756311/ ADR Logistics throughout Scotland John McLellan of Keedwell Scotland email: john@keedwellscotland.co.uk Tel: 0141 771 9911 www.keedwellscotland.co.uk ADR Logistics England, Wales, Ireland and Mainland Europe John Donovan of JJX Logistics Tel: 01384 221 642 email: john@jjxlogistics.co.uk www.jjxlogistics.co.uk AND Gary Cane of Hazchem Network ADR Logistics England, Wales, Ireland and Mainland Europe Tel: 07909 685 628 email: gary@hazmail.co.uk www.hazchemnetwork.co.uk and www.hers-info.co.uk Text and Photographs © 2026 A S Karim TRUCK & TRAILER SOLUTIONS WELCOME TOALLPORTS GROUP allportsgroup.co.uk Fire triangle Bulk flammable liquid container
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