Dachser South Africa’s Supply Chain Safety Guide
IN the intricate world of logistics, transporting dangerous goods poses unique challenges that demand specialised expertise and rigorous safety measures. These goods – ranging from chemicals to batteries and fertilisers – require careful handling to protect people, property, and the environment.
Dachser South Africa has built extensive experience in this space, with Managing Director Detlev Duve stressing the company’s unwavering focus on safety and compliance. “Our priority is to ensure that all dangerous goods are transported safely and efficiently without compromising on quality or safety,” he says.
Transporting hazardous materials requires navigating a maze of regulations, safety risks, and logistical hurdles. Key considerations include:
- Regulatory compliance: Companies must meet stringent international and local rules, including the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code and IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations.
- Packaging and handling: Specialised packaging prevents leaks, spills, and damage, while trained personnel mitigate risks.
- Complex supply chains: Many shipments require multi-modal transport across road, air, and sea, demanding careful coordination.
- Specialised training: Staff undergo regular training to remain prepared for emergencies.
- Technology: Real-time tracking enhances visibility, security, and efficiency.
- Emergency preparedness: Robust response plans and partnerships with local authorities ensure swift action when needed.
Dachser South Africa’s operations are fully aligned with global frameworks such as IMDG and IATA standards. Its teams oversee every stage of transport—from labelling and packaging to leveraging advanced tracking systems – backed by state-of-the-art infrastructure and vehicles designed for hazardous cargo.
“Goods such as fertilisers and batteries require specialised knowledge and infrastructure to ensure their safe and efficient transport,” Duve explains.
For fertilisers, Dachser often manages complex multi-modal routes to remote agricultural areas, balancing timing with strict safety and environmental standards.
Lithium batteries, on the other hand, present fire and explosion risks that demand strict compliance.
As Duve highlights, “Proper packaging is crucial for safety, requiring lithium batteries to be packed in strong, rigid outer packaging to resist damage. Packages must also feature specific labels to identify the battery type and associated risks. “Safety relies on clear communication and proper handling.”
In addition to robust internal protocols, Dachser South Africa maintains comprehensive emergency response plans and collaborates closely with local authorities to ensure rapid action in case of an incident. Its combination of expertise, technology, and infrastructure enables the safe and compliant movement of dangerous goods, reinforcing its position as a trusted logistics partner in South Africa and beyond.
