Dangerous goods law, classifications and documentation
This domain tests the New Zealand legal framework for transporting dangerous goods, how goods are classified, and what documentation must travel with a load. The key instruments are the Land Transport Rule: Dangerous Goods 2005 (Rule 45001) and NZS 5433:2012, which sets out classification, packing, documentation and segregation requirements. The Rule sets quantity thresholds; above them, the full regime applies, including the driver's D endorsement.
Core rules and concepts
- Dangerous goods are assigned to one of nine UN classes. Classes 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6 have divisions. Class 7 is radioactive, Class 8 corrosive and Class 9 miscellaneous.
- Each entry has a UN number, proper shipping name, class or division, and packing group (I, II or III) where applicable. Packing group reflects the degree of danger.
- A transport document must accompany the load and show the UN number, proper shipping name, class, packing group, quantity, and consignor and consignee details. A dangerous goods declaration is required for certain consignments.
- Emergency response information must be available to the driver.
Worked example
A consignment of 200 L of petrol is UN1203, Class 3, PG II. The transport document must show UN1203, PETROL, 3, II, 200 L. Because the quantity is above the Rule's threshold, the vehicle must be placarded for Class 3 and the driver must hold a D endorsement. If the document listed only "fuel", it would be defective because the proper shipping name is required.
Traps that cost marks
- Using a trade name instead of the proper shipping name.
- Omitting the packing group, or confusing a subsidiary risk with the primary class.
- Assuming a D endorsement is needed for every small quantity; thresholds matter.
- Forgetting that documentation is required even when placards are not.