Tanker code now in operation
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THE HEALTH and Safety Commission's code of practice on the examination, testing and certification of the tanks and fittings of road tankers and tank containers came into effect this week.
It is primarily intended for use by operators of road tankers and tank containers and "competent persons" who carry out the examination, testing and certification to comply with Regulation seven of the Dangerous Substances (Conveyance by Road in Road Tankers and Tank Containers) Regulations 1981.
This regulation came into force on January 1, 1984 although tanks already in use for the conveyance of dangerous substances at that date did not need to comply until January 1 this year.
The main requirements of Regulation Seven are that before a tank is used for the conveyance of a dangerous substance: • there must be in existence a written scheme of initial and periodic examination and -testing; • there must be a written report on the examination and testing which must be carried out by a competent person; and • the tank must be certified by the competent person as being suitable for the intended purpose and the certificate must indicate the purposes for which the tank is suitable The code provides guidance on the types of examination and testing which should be included in the written scheme and on the periods which should elapse between such examinations and tests.
It also provides guidance on the type of person who would be considered competent to carry out the examination and testing, and it includes model forms for reporting on both the initial and periodic examinations and test, and for certifying a tank as suitable for particular substances.
The Road Tanker Testing code is available from HM Stationery Office or booksellers at £2.80.