Transportation Challenges: Ensuring Safe Movement of Dangerous Goods in the Supply Chain

Abstract

Handling dangerous goods in logistics operations poses multifaceted challenges across various classes of hazardous materials, necessitating rigorous measures to mitigate risks to individuals, property, and the environment. The transportation of such materials is expected to grow significantly due to digitization, rising demand for medical waste management, and the imperative for safer practices, underscored by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to identify challenges in current handling processes, assess awareness levels, and propose mitigation measures. Through a cross-sectional approach involving 30 respondents primarily from DMS Logistics, challenges such as identification/classification, compliance, documentation, security, accidents, and damage to goods were identified. Proposed solutions emphasize training, regulatory compliance, packaging protocols, and safety precautions. Overall, the study highlights the pivotal role of logistics in handling dangerous goods and stresses the importance of ongoing research, innovation, and collaboration to ensure safe and efficient transportation while recommending heightened awareness and comprehensive training to mitigate associated risks