INTERNATIONAL ISSUES OF TRANSPORTING HAZARDS MATERIALS

This article explores, at international scale, the following aspects of hazardous materials: (1) the elements of the hazardous materials transport system; (2) the significance of the problem of accidents associated with transport of dangerous substances; (3) preventive measures that have been adopted against transport accidents; and (4) emergency response and rehabilitative systems that have been, and are being, devised. Modes and materials in transportation systems are discussed as well as accidents related to the highway mode. Comments are made on the frequency and severity of accidents of hazardous accidents. Expertise and legislative dimensions of the subject are also discussed. The results are presented of a survey of 60 selected countries. It was found that a major dilemma facing researchers is the low probability of hazardous material accidents as weighed against the serious consequences resulting from any such event. The majority of the materials are either inputs to industrial operations or essential commodities for people's needs. Statistics show that accident frequency for hazardous materials transport is highest for road transport. Problems that exist on an international level relate to the lack of common standards and practices with regard to packaging and transport, and the inadequacy of accident data collection systems.