The determination of a database with respect to the transportation of hazardous materials by road in the PWV area

Abstract

The formulation of effective safety measures to counteract the potential for disaster presented by the transportation of hazardous materials requires that reliable data is available as to the nature and extent of such traffic. Such data is currently unavailable and a roadside interview survey was conducted in the PWV area in order to ascertain the quantities and type of material being transported locally. the routes used, the types of vehicles and containers involved, and compliance with existing regulations. It was found that of the 1068 Vehicles surveyed carrying hazardous material, only 22% fully complied with existing legislation. A risk assessment model for use by both operators and authorities is then developed, in which the survey data is input to determine the least risk route between Johannesburg and Sasolburg.