RID 2024: Key Updates for the Rail Transport of Dangerous Goods

RID 2024: What's New in the Rail Transport of Dangerous Goods

Main Updates in RID 2024

1. Classification of Dangerous Goods

Chapter 3.2 – Classification:
Significant changes have been made to the classification of certain hazardous substances, aligning with recent UN recommendations. For example, some substances previously classified as "environmentally hazardous" are now categorized into more specific classes, such as Class 9 for environmentally hazardous materials.

2. Labeling and Transport Documentation

Part 5 – Labeling and Documentation:
A new format has been introduced for transport documents to enhance clarity and traceability. Labels must now indicate specific risks associated with each substance more clearly and comply with updated UN templates.

Chapter 5.4 – Transport Documentation:
Mandatory documentation, such as the declaration of danger and accompanying documentation, must now include more detailed information about the nature of the hazard and emergency behavior. These changes aim to ensure safer management in case of rail incidents.

3. Rail Transport Safety Measures

Chapter 6 – Vehicle and Container Requirements:
Stricter controls have been introduced for the design and approval of containers used in rail transport of dangerous goods. The containers must now meet higher safety standards regarding leak prevention and shock resistance.

Chapter 6.8 – Rail Transport Guidelines:
The guidelines for handling dangerous goods during rail transport have been updated, with a stronger emphasis on train driver training and company certification, ensuring that all operators are properly trained in safety and emergency management.

4. Staff Training

Chapter 1.3 – Training:
A major update requires railway companies to ensure that all personnel involved—not only drivers but also loading/unloading staff, truck drivers, and support personnel—receive proper training on hazard awareness, emergency response, and incident handling.

5. Intermodal Safety and Combined Transport

Chapter 1.1 – General Provisions:
The 2024 RID regulation places greater emphasis on intermodal safety. Dangerous goods transported by both rail and road must now comply with stricter rules to ensure consistency and safety during transfers between different transport modes.

RID 2024 represents a significant step forward in improving safety in the rail transport of dangerous goods. The updates address key aspects of logistics and risk management, from classification to documentation and training. It is crucial that all companies in the railway sector promptly comply with the new regulations to ensure both regulatory compliance and operational safety.