Back to All NewsHow Can ADR Training Boost Your Driving Career?
Career progression in HGV driving can sometimes mean stepping into management, but sitting behind a desk isn’t for everyone.
For drivers who want to progress and stay behind the wheel, it might be a good idea to specialise – perhaps by living life more dangerously and achieving an ADR licence.
What is ADR training?
ADR training is a prerequisite for the ADR licence required in the UK and Europe for transporting dangerous goods by road.
The acronym comes from the French term Accord Dangereux Routier, and its origins can be found in the European Agreement for the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road, a 1957 UN Treaty.
The items included in the regulations are hazardous materials and are divided into classes depending on their type.
They run from Class 1 for explosives such as ammunition and fireworks, through gases, flammable liquids and materials, peroxides, toxic substances and radioactive materials, to Class 8 for corrosives and Class 9 for miscellaneous loads.
It can cover how to safely handle, store and transport materials of certain Classes of materials, whether in packages or tankers. Training covers regulations for transporting the goods, emergency procedures and risk management.
From an introductory curriculum and awareness of ADR processes to specific training for transporting a Class of materials, ADR courses can be tailored to your needs.
To gain a licence, drivers must pass exams set by a qualification body such as Qualifications Scotland.
What are the benefits of an ADR licence?
ADR licence-holders are specialist drivers and handlers, and that comes with benefits for your driving career.
- You’ll have more options in the jobs market as you’ll be able to transport a greater variety of goods, including driving tankers
- The specialised nature of the work can come with more job security than non-hazardous haulage
- You’ll improve your knowledge and safety awareness for hazardous substances
- You’ll be able to command a higher rate of pay due to specialised knowledge
- With an ADR licence, you can legally transport dangerous substances across the UK and Europe
- You’ll be able to take on increased responsibilities and gain career progression
Talk to Viamaster about what ADR courses are available in Leeds and the Yorkshire area, and see if specialising in dangerous goods would suit your career.
