Every 2 years, the ADR regulations (Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road) are updated. The final version of ADR 2025 will be published shortly, but some of the provisions presented below are already part of the expected ADR 2025 changes.
The main changes
The regulations governing the transport of dangerous goods are set out in the TMD decree in France and the ADR at European level. These are regularly updated to guarantee optimum safety levels.
The TMD decree (short for arrêté du 29 mai 2009 relatif aux transports de marchandises dangereuses par voies terrestres) was amended in July 2024.
If you’re one of our customers, you’ve already received the changes in your regulatory watch bulletins; if not, here’s a reminder of the main points.
TDG Order 2024
👉 From January 1, 2025, remote reporting of events involving dangerous goods will become mandatory.
Until then, companies can still use CERFA form 12252 to submit their declarations.
👉 Operations involving pressure drums containing LPG (UN No. 1965)…
necessary for the operation of switch heaters on the rail network, must use special handling equipment equipped with lifting cranes with stroke limiters.
👉 Adaptation of regulatory provisions relating to the transport of hazardous materials on inland waterways to the French Guiana department.
ADR evolution – 2025 amendments
👉 New chapter 4.1.1.5.3
This chapter clarifies the packaging requirements for the transport of waste. It authorizes the packaging of solid and liquid waste in a single outer packaging, provided it meets the requirements of packaging group I. The aim of this measure is to simplify waste transport while guaranteeing safety.
👉 Introduction of new UN codes :
New features include the introduction of UN 3551 for ionic sodium batteries with organic electrolyte, and UN 3552 for batteries packed with equipment. In addition, new codes are assigned to substances such as disilane (UN 3553) and gallium in manufactured articles (UN 3554).
👉 Sodium batteries and electric vehicles :
Vehicles powered solely by lithium or sodium ion batteries must now be classified under UN codes 3556, 3557 and 3558. These vehicles will no longer be transported under UN 3171, which is now reserved for vehicles powered by liquid electrolyte or sodium alloy batteries.
In conclusion
Changes to the TDG decree and ADR 2025 reflect the ongoing drive to improve the safety of dangerous goods transport. These new provisions require companies in the sector to keep abreast of the latest developments and implement the necessary measures to ensure that their operations are compliant.
Would you like to find out more about ADR or whether you are subject to it? Contact our safety advisor.