NSW Environmental Protection Agency NSW Government

Dangerous goods

We explain the rules around transporting dangerous goods by road and rail, how to get driver and vehicle licences for transporting dangerous goods, and how to get training.

Transporting dangerous goods or preparing dangerous goods for transport are activities with a high but manageable risk, if proper precautions are taken.  Because of the risks, dangerous goods transport is a highly regulated activity.  To manage the risks there are a number of controls that are required.

Close up of front of truck
Dangerous goods overview
What makes something dangerous goods, and how we ensure that dangerous goods are transported safely.
EPA staff member talking to Fire and Rescue staff
Video explainers
These 10 short videos explain key safety precautions that must be taken when transporting dangerous goods, and why these precautions are important.
vehicles alongside the road behind a tanker incident
Controls and when they apply
Controls apply when transporting dangerous goods. These controls are requirements that protect the driver, the stability of goods being transported and the environment.
Tanker truck
Licensing and training

When transporting dangerous goods in a large receptacle such as a tank, both the driver and the vehicle must hold a dangerous goods licence. Find out what you need to do to get a licence.

Tank vehicle inspection manual

This inspection manual has been prepared to assist operators, repairers and regulators ensure that tank vehicles meet legislative requirements.

EPA officer in hi vis at the site of a burnt out truck
Preventing truck and tanker fires

This manual is for fleet operators, workshop managers and mechanics to identify potential causes of truck and tanker fires and to help prevent them.

graphic of a tanker plan
Tank design approvals
The design of a tank used for dangerous goods transport must be approved by the competent authority before it can be used to transport dangerous goods.
Dashboard light showing ABS
Determinations and exemptions
Information about determinations in place and when exemptions can be issued.
Search for dangerous goods licences
Dangerous goods public register
Search the Dangerous Goods public register for information about driver and vehicle licences.