The Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate (ILT) calls on private individuals to take the correct measures when transporting carbide. The demand for carbide has increased recently. Many people are unaware that carbide is a dangerous substance and that its transportation is regulated. Private individuals are therefore allowed to transport a maximum of 5 kg of carbide in an airtight container. Carbide is a hazardous substance and, when in contact with water, gives off a highly flammable gas that can easily lead to explosions. Exposure to the outside air (which also contains water) can already lead to dangerous situations, especially in closed spaces or packaging that is not airtight.

Regulation

For professional transport or the transport of more than 5 kg by private persons, rules apply with additional requirements for packaging, vehicle and training, among other things. The ILT has also recently informed importers and traders about the rules that apply to private individuals. Failure to meet the requirements entails risks to health and the environment and is punishable by law. The ILT and the police can check for the presence of carbide in vehicles.

Role of the ILT

The ILT monitors compliance with the Dangerous Goods Transport Act and the ADR; this concerns the supervision of the transport and the method of packaging and sending of dangerous goods. In this capacity, the ILT is authorized to stop vehicles and check whether the transport of carbide complies with legislation and regulations. If this is not the case, the transport will be stopped until the rules are met. With regard to the storage of carbide, the municipality, province or environmental service is the competent authority. The Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate reports this by means of this message on their website.

Also read: ILT pays extra attention to safety on the railway