People who are undergoing training in the different aspects of handling dangerous goods, such as explosive products, are taught about the need to have a security plan in place for those dangerous goods. This article discusses some of the important aspects of such a security plan.

Responsibility Allocation

A good security plan should outline the different people who will be responsible for handling the dangerous goods at different times/stages. Such individuals should know what their responsibilities are in ensuring that the dangerous goods are secure. For example, the driver of a dangerous goods vehicle (DGV) should know what tasks, such as denying unauthorised access, he or she should perform to ensure that the goods are secure.

Dangerous Goods Documentation

The security plan should also include details about the specific dangerous goods for which the plan has been drawn. For instance, the plan can outline the number of packages that have been prepared for transportation by road from one point to the destination. Such a record can help all concerned parties to keep track of each item in the consignment.

Risk Mitigation Measures

Security plans also identify the different risks that are likely to be created or faced by the dangerous goods at the different stages of handling and transportation. For example, packages may be at risk of breaking as the goods are transferred from the transport vehicle to a temporary storage facility. Risk mitigation measures, such as practice sessions on how to transfer the goods safely, are then provided to reduce or manage those identified risks.

Emergency Response Mechanisms

The security plan also outlines what should be done in case the security of the dangerous goods is breached. For example, who should a driver call in case one of the packages leaks during transportation? What should a storekeeper do in case a facility housing dangerous goods catches fire? What documents should be prepared after a security breach? Such guidelines can help to equip the relevant persons with the information that they need to deal with any situation that may arise while the dangerous goods are in their care.

Having a detailed security plan may not guarantee that dangerous goods will be handled or transported well. You should undergo dangerous goods training so that you learn everything that you need to know, such as the regulations on dangerous goods packaging, in order to protect yourself and others while you handle dangerous goods as you go about your daily work.

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