What is an ADR course?

If you work in the transport or logistics industry, chances are you’ve heard of ADR training. But what exactly is an ADR course, and why is it important for both drivers and operators?

Let’s break down what ADR training involves, who needs it and how it can boost your career opportunities in the haulage industry.

What does ADR mean?

ADR stands for “Accord Dangereux Routier,” which translates to “European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road.” In simpler terms, it’s the international set of rules to ensure the safety of transporting dangerous goods.

What is the ADR Course?

An ADR course is specialist training designed to provide drivers with the knowledge and skills to transport dangerous goods both safely and legally. The course covers everything you need to know about transporting hazardous substances, such as:

• How to identify and classify dangerous goods
• Vehicle and equipment requirements
• Safe loading, unloading, and handling procedures
• Emergency Response and Accident Prevention
• Documentation, signage, and labelling rules.

After completing the course and passing the exams, you’ll receive an ADR certificate, which is valid for 5 years.

Who needs to take an ADR course?

You’ll need an ADR certificate if you’re driving vehicles carrying hazardous materials, in tankers, or packages above a certain threshold. Any HGV drivers transporting fuel, chemicals, gas or any other hazardous goods must complete ADR training, and the same for van drivers carrying smaller loads above exemption limits. As an operator, your company may also require you to complete ADR awareness training despite not transporting any dangerous goods, so you are aware of the risks involved.

Even if you don’t drive, ADR knowledge is valuable, especially for warehouse staff, managers or anyone who may be involved in handling dangerous goods.

What ADR courses are available?

Here at 2 Start, we offer different types of ADR training depending on what kind of goods you’ll be transporting.

• Core, Packages & Tanks – 3.5 to a 5-day course, choose either initial or refresher training and get knowledge of the transport of hazardous good by road. This course includes ADR Classes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 & 9.
• Core, Packages, Tanks & Required Classes – A five-day course, you can choose what group of ADR classes (excluding specialist classes 1 & 7) you need to train on, while also choosing a variation or core, packages, or tanks. Complete this course as either a initial to gain your certification, or as a refresher to renew your current certification.
• Specialist classes 1 – Complete ADR specials Class 1 to gain the knowledge and training to safely and appropriately handle, transport, identify and segregate dangerous goods which fall into Class 1, explosives
• Specialist classes 7 – Complete ADR specials Class 7 to gain the knowledge and training to safely and appropriately handle, transport, identify and segregate dangerous goods which fall into Class 7, radioactive materials.
• ADR all classes 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8 & 9 –  Completed over 7 days. This course is suitable for individuals with no experience with handling or transporting dangerous goods by road. This course will cover each hazardous good, including specialist classes 1 (explosives) and 7 (radioactive), as well as cover dangerous goods in packages and tanks. You can also use this course to count towards 28 hours of your Periodic Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC).
• ADR Awareness – Designed to meet the needs of those who don’t work with raw hazardous goods, but must understand the key principles of dealing with products which could become hazardous when exposed to another element.

Why is an ADR course important?

Taking an ADR course isn’t just about ticking a compliance box; it’s also about safety, avoiding risks of accidents, compliance with strict UK and European regulations, and also career opportunities! Many transport companies prefer ADR-certified drivers.

Get ADR certified with 2 Start Training.

At 2 Start Training, we provide fully accredited ADR courses led by experienced instructors. Whether you’re new to dangerous goods transport or refreshing an existing qualification, we’ll give you the knowledge and support to pass your exams with confidence.

Book your ADR course today and take the next step in your professional driving career.

Ultimately, an ADR course is essential for any driver or company involved in the transportation of dangerous goods. It’s more than just a legal requirement; it’s a gateway to safer operations, career growth, and increased employability in the logistics industry.