Mixed Loading, Segregation and Prohibited Combinations
Why segregation matters
Some goods react dangerously if they mix: oxidisers with flammables, acids with cyanides, water-reactive substances with anything wet. ADR sets mixed-loading rules and, for some combinations, prohibits loading in the same vehicle or requires separation. Traps: assuming segregation is only about physical damage, and forgetting that foodstuffs must be separated from toxic or infectious goods.
Prohibited combinations
Certain class 1 explosives cannot be loaded with other goods, and some class 7 packages require separation. The Dangerous Goods List and the mixed-loading table give the rules. The driver must check the combination before loading and refuse a prohibited mix.
Worked rule of thumb
For any mixed load, check three questions: do the classes react, does the Dangerous Goods List prohibit the combination, and is foodstuffs separation required? If any answer is adverse, do not load.