Transporting goods in tanker trucks, especially those carrying liquids or hazardous materials, involves risks that are exacerbated in extreme weather conditions, such as a DANA. To meet these challenges safely, drivers must have a comprehensive strategy that includes planning, proper equipment and rapid response. Here is a guide to essential protocols for protecting your safety and the safety of others.
1. The importance of anticipation
Anticipation is key in severe weather conditions. Keeping informed in real time and choosing safe routes are essential practices:
- Constant and professional weather monitoring: It is imperative to use specialised freight weather apps and services that provide up-to-date information, storm warnings and flood risks. Some of these platforms even include route recommendations based on weather conditions.
- Plan safe alternative routes: Avoid flood-prone areas, such as low-lying areas and fords, and prioritise well-paved roads that are less likely to be cut off by accumulated water. Prepare detour routes before departure to minimise the risk of being trapped.
2. Protocols for action in the event of being trapped on a roadway
If conditions worsen and you find yourself trapped in an area at risk of flooding, follow these steps strictly to protect yourself and your cargo:
- Avoid crossing flooded roads: The water level on the road may seem low, but even small amounts of water can destabilise a tanker truck due to the weight and movement of the liquid it is carrying. Do not risk the stability of the vehicle by trying to cross.
- Stay calm and act quickly: Contact your control centre and emergency services immediately. Give your precise location and follow their instructions. Activate your hazard lights to make your vehicle visible in low visibility conditions, reducing the risk of collisions.
- Seek an elevated position if safe: If there is a safe high ground option, try to position the truck in that area to minimise the chance of water reaching the tanker and causing spillage.
3. Mandatory emergency equipment for road tankers
Make sure the truck is equipped with a complete emergency kit that includes:
- Advanced signalling equipment: Reflective triangles, extra emergency lights, and light signals help other drivers see you in adverse conditions. These are crucial in cases of reduced visibility or blocked traffic situations.
- High-quality personal protective gear: Waterproof gear, waterproof boots, high-visibility clothing and gloves are indispensable if you need to get out of the truck. Also, be sure to carry a thermal blanket and an extra high-visibility waistcoat in case repair or marking work needs to be done in the rain.
- Radio and back-up communication system: In stormy conditions, regular communications can fail. A radio device with battery backup can be essential to keep you in contact with emergency services or operations headquarters.
4.Emergency preparedness
Storms such as a DANA can trigger critical situations within minutes. Advance preparation and specialised training are essential:
- Regular training and realistic drills: Make sure you participate in training programmes that include emergency drills. Knowing what actions to take and practising them allows you to make decisions under pressure more effectively.
- Limit awareness and safe decision making: Recognise when it is best to stop activity and wait. Postponing a delivery is preferable to risking safety in situations of poor visibility or high risk of flooding. Remain calm and always prioritise safety over delivery schedules.
If you would like more information about dangerous goods transport or any of our services, please do not hesitate to contact us.