In this discussion document the author outlines the current available international and national guidance and legislation on safety aspects of road transport of dangerous goods, and then goes on to consider appropriate and cost effective measures which could be developed by the OECD Environment Committee's Expert Group on Chemical Accidents. He concludes that it may be appropriate to address OECD research activity to resolving the marked differences of approach to the question of designated routing including matters such as transport through tunnels and modal choice. Other matters which may merit OECD attention are such as, guidance on management for safety (which could perhaps use the guidance provided by the chemical industry in several countries as a basis), interfaces (which could include loading and unloading, parking areas, etc.), enforcement, land-use planning and emergency planning and response. On matters such as management for safety, enforcement and emergency planning and response, there would seem to be a general agreement on the objectives involved but significant differences exist in respect of the specific provision. In addition there is a need for improved availability of information of details on traffic flows and accidents involving the transport of dangerous goods. The title of the French version of this paper is "Le transport routier de merchandises dangereuses: securite et protection de l'environement".
Abstract