Is Your TDG Training Adequate?

Transport Canada has recently completed a major update to the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations (TDGR). With significant changes now incorporated into the Regulations, this is an excellent opportunity for employers and employees to take another look at their TDG training.

Is your training up to date? More importantly, does it provide the knowledge required for you to be considered adequately trained under Part 6 of the TDGR?

Does Your TDG Training Meet the Requirements?

When shopping around for Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) training, there are many training providers to choose from. Price, convenience, and course length may influence your decision, but there is another important question you should be asking:

Does the training actually meet the requirements for “adequate training” under Part 6?

What Does “Adequately Trained” Mean?

Section 6.2 – Adequate Training states that a person is adequately trained when they have a sound knowledge of the topics that relate directly to their duties and to the dangerous goods; they are expected to handle, offer for transport or transport.

What Should TDG Training Cover?

For ground transportation, these topics may include:

Classification criteria and test methods;
Shipping names;
Use of Schedules 1, 2 and 3;
Shipping document requirements;
Dangerous goods marks, including labels and placards;
Compliance marks, safety requirements, and safety standards;
Emergency Response Assistance Plan (ERAP) requirements;
Reporting requirements;
Safe handling and transportation practices, including the characteristics of the dangerous goods;
Proper use of equipment; and
Reasonable emergency measures in the event of a release.

Look Beyond the Certificate

When comparing TDG training providers, take a moment to look at what is actually being taught.

Does the course cover the applicable topics identified in section 6.2? Is the course material current with the latest TDGR requirements? And, most importantly, does the training relate to the actual duties your employees perform and the dangerous goods they work with?

TDG training should be more than simply obtaining a certificate.

The goal is to ensure employees have the knowledge they need to perform their duties safely and in accordance with the current TDG Regulations.

Is It Time to Review Your TDG Training?

With the recent changes to the TDGR, now is a great time to ask: Is your TDG training current, relevant, and adequate for the work you actually do?

With recent changes to the TDGR, now is the time to ensure your team has the knowledge needed to perform their duties safely and in accordance with current regulations. Not sure if your training meets the requirements? Contact ICC today to discuss your TDG training needs and explore the options available for your team.