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Hazchem drivers told to check up on cops
Page 17
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DRIVERS DELIVERING goods which could cause mass civilian casualties if stolen by terrorists can now refuse to open up their vehicles to police in case the officers are bogus.
A new code of practice issued by the government last week entitles drivers to a "Dangerous Load Card" if they are hauling goods such as petrol radioactive material, explosives and ammonium nitrate fertiliser.
This allows drivers to refuse to co-operate with police if stopped or involved in an accident until they have verified their details.
A similar system has operated among carriers of high-value loads such as bullion for the past decade.
The Voluntary Code of Practice for the Security of Dangerous Goods has been drawn up by the police, government and 11 trade associations including the Road Haulage Association and the Freight Transport Association.
Its introduction is in response to the terrorist attacks on America in 2001 and follows the publication of UnitedNationsrecommendations. These will form the basis of new national regulations which are due to come into force in July 2005.
The Department for Transport says the code covers goods "which have the potential for mis-use in a terrorist incident and which may. as a result, produce serious consequences such as mass casualties or mass destruction".
It applies to all dangerous goods, but more stringent measures are recommended for what are described as "high consequence dangerous goods".
As well as carrying a Dangerous Load Card, drivers carrying such goods are advised to take special training, not to stop en route and to keep all cab doors and windows locked throughout their journey.
• Details of the code are available from the Mrs website (vvww.dftgov.uk) or on request byemailing DGSecurity@tilt.gsigov.uk