Explosives transportation draft code out for public comment

The Australian Forum of Explosives Regulators (AFER) recently released a draft of the Australian Code for ‘Transport of Explosives by Road and Rail, Third Edition’ (Australian Explosives Code) for public comment.
“The code has been revised to update the technical provisions and operational content, including the listing of explosives,” AFER chairman, Drew Wagner said. “I encourage stakeholders to engage in this public comment process and provide their feedback on the draft code.
“The purpose of the code is to regulate the land transport of explosives by road and rail in Australia. It aims to ensure the safety of the community from activities associated with the transport of explosives, largely preventing and reducing the incidence of risks.
“It is hoped that the revised Australian Explosives Code will assist in enhancing the level of consistency in its application across the jurisdictions. The amendments also address industry’s concerns as well as security matters relating to the transport of explosives.
“The revisions will more closely align the Australian Explosives Code with the United Nations classification and labelling system, afforded by the UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods Model Regulations, as well as the Australian Code for the Transport of Dangerous Goods.”
The code is open for public comment until 7 May 2008. AFER will consider all submissions, with a view to amending the draft code if necessary, taking into account all comments.