DGSA hazardous materials compliance is not just a box-ticking exercise. A DGSA, or Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser, plays a crucial role in ensuring your business meets UK and international regulations when transporting or handling dangerous goods. If your company works with hazardous materials, having a DGSA is often a legal requirement.
In this blog, we explain what a DGSA does, when you need one, and how they can help your business stay safe and compliant.
What is a DGSA?
A DGSA is a qualified professional who advises businesses on the safe transport, handling, and storage of dangerous goods. Their role was introduced under the ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road) regulations.
In the UK, these rules are enforced by the Department for Transport. A DGSA ensures that your processes for packaging, labelling, transporting, and storing dangerous goods meet all relevant legal requirements.
When Do You Need a DGSA?
If your business regularly transports, loads, or unloads dangerous goods by road, you may be legally required to appoint a DGSA. This applies to many sectors, including manufacturing, chemical production, logistics, and waste management.
Even if you handle small quantities, exemptions are limited. The rules apply to substances ranging from industrial chemicals to certain cleaning products, fuels, and gases.
For full details, you can read the Department for Transport guidance on DGSAs.
The Role of a DGSA in Your Business
A DGSA’s job goes beyond compliance paperwork. Their responsibilities typically include:
- Advising on safe handling, packaging, and labelling of hazardous materials.
- Ensuring transport documentation meets ADR requirements.
- Monitoring safety procedures and identifying improvements.
- Investigating incidents involving dangerous goods.
- Preparing an annual report for company management.
- Training staff in hazardous materials handling and transport safety.
By providing expert guidance, a DGSA reduces the risk of accidents, environmental damage, and costly fines.
Why a DGSA is Essential for Hazardous Materials Handling
Handling hazardous materials carries significant risks. Incorrect labelling, poor packaging, or unsafe storage can lead to leaks, spills, fires, or exposure to harmful substances. These incidents can harm people, damage property, and lead to serious legal consequences.
A DGSA helps your business:
- Maintain a strong safety culture.
- Avoid non-compliance penalties.
- Protect employees and the public from harm.
- Ensure efficient and legal transport of goods.
Training and Qualification of a DGSA
To become a DGSA, candidates must pass exams approved by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA). The exams cover the transport of dangerous goods by road, rail, and inland waterways.
Once qualified, a DGSA’s certification lasts for five years, after which they must pass re-certification exams to remain accredited. This ensures they stay up to date with changes in legislation and best practice.
The Benefits of Having a DGSA In-House or Outsourced
Some larger companies employ a DGSA full-time, especially if dangerous goods handling is central to their operations. Others choose to outsource the role to a specialist consultancy, which can be more cost-effective for smaller businesses.
At RADCaT, we provide outsourced DGSA services, giving you access to expert advice without the overhead of a full-time position. Our consultants bring extensive knowledge and practical experience, ensuring your compliance processes are both effective and efficient.
How a DGSA Supports Incident Prevention and Response
One of the most valuable contributions a DGSA makes is in preventing incidents before they happen. By regularly auditing procedures, checking documentation, and providing training, they reduce the likelihood of dangerous goods accidents.
If an incident does occur, a DGSA helps manage the response. They investigate the root cause, advise on corrective actions, and ensure any regulatory reporting is completed correctly and on time.
Integrating DGSA Support with Your Safety Management Systems
A DGSA’s work should be part of a broader health and safety framework. They collaborate with other safety officers, managers, and compliance teams to ensure dangerous goods handling is fully integrated into workplace safety culture.
This includes aligning DGSA procedures with your existing health and safety policies and risk assessments.
Consequences of Not Having a DGSA When Required
Failing to appoint a DGSA when required by law can result in serious consequences, including:
- Fines and legal prosecution.
- Revocation of licences for dangerous goods transport.
- Increased insurance costs.
- Reputational damage and loss of client trust.
The cost of compliance is far lower than the cost of an incident or legal action.
Choosing the Right DGSA for Your Business
When selecting a DGSA, look for:
- Proven experience in your sector.
- Current qualifications and certification.
- Strong communication skills to train and advise your team.
- A proactive approach to safety and compliance.
Whether in-house or outsourced, the right DGSA will become a trusted partner in keeping your operations safe and compliant.
DGSA: A Key Part of Responsible Business Operations
If your business handles hazardous materials, a DGSA is not just a legal requirement — they are an essential part of your safety strategy. They protect your people, your reputation, and your bottom line by ensuring dangerous goods are handled correctly from start to finish.
Need DGSA support for your business? Contact RADCaT today to find out how our outsourced DGSA services can keep you compliant and confident in your hazardous materials handling.
