MEWPs will not require “dangerous goods” labels
Amendments to the European Agreement
By International Powered Access Federation
IPAF has clarified with the VCA, an executive agency of the UK Department for Transport, that mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) will not be required to carry “dangerous goods” labels, following amendments to the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR) which go into force on 1 January 2013.
Under the amended regulations, liquid fuels are classified as dangerous goods and equipment or machinery (e.g. generators, compressors, heating units, etc.) with tanks above a capacity of 60 litres are required to have the relevant decals/labels/stickers (special provision 363).
However, special provision 363 does not apply to fuel contained in tanks of items covered by exemption 1.1.3.3 (a) or (b):
“1.1.3.3 (b) Fuel contained in the tanks of vehicles or of other means of conveyance (such as boats) which are carried as a load, where it is destined for their propulsion or the operation of any of their equipment. Any fuel cocks between the engine or equipment and the fuel tank shall be closed during carriage unless it is essential for the equipment to remain operational. Where appropriate, the vehicles or other means of conveyance shall be loaded upright and secured against falling.”
MEWPs are exempted under 1.1.3.3 (b) as they meet the conditions described in the first sentence, i.e. MEWPs use the fuel both to move them to the required work position and to go up and down.
IPAF draws the attention of its members to the other points described in the exemption, i.e. that any fuel cocks shall be closed during transportation and that the vehicles shall be properly loaded and secured.
About the Author
IPAF is the parent organization of North America's Aerial Work Platform Training (AWPT). Both are not-for-profit member organizations that promote the safe and effective use of powered access equipment. Find more information at www.ipaf.org.
