Since 1999, companies or individuals whose activities include the transport of, or the related loading or unloading, of hazardous goods, have been required to appoint a Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor (DGSA).
The DGSA must advise the company on compliance with all the legislation concerning the packaging, marking, storage and transportation of hazardous goods. They will also advise on the adequacy of training for staff involved in these activities. Accident and annual reports are other key roles.
The DGSA qualification lasts for 5 years. There are 3 examinations to pass (core module, road transport module & hazardous goods classes module) and examinations are held 4 times a year.
The examinations are open book and Enterprise run a 5 day course by the end of which the candidate will full understand how to apply the relevant legislation. The candidate must supply their own books, although can source these books for the candidate if required.