Regulation - transport, storage and distribution sector

Storing and handling goods safely

The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1992 require employers to assess the risks to the health and safety of their employees and others who will be affected by their operations. Businesses involved in freight, cargo handling, storage and distribution activities must take steps to protect their employees from potential health hazards arising out of their work.

Workplace safety

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) produces a number of guidance leaflets on health and safety matters for the haulage and cargo handling sectors. Visit the HSE website for:

• a publications list of leaflets for the haulage sector
• a publications list of leaflets for cargo handlers and dock operations
• the new requirements for the transport of explosives by road
• a safety report assessment guide - chemical warehouses: hazards
• guidance on the Personal and Protective Equipment at Work Regulations (PPE)

Motorcycle helmets, visors and goggles used by businesses such as couriers must comply with EC marking regulations that demonstrate that they comply with safety standards. Download the regulations on the use of motorcycle helmets, visors and goggles from the Department for Transport (DfT) website (PDF).

Hazardous substances

The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1994 (COSHH) require employers to control employees' exposure to chemicals and other hazardous substances, including dusts and other respiratory sensitisers. For more information:

• download a brief guide to the regulations on hazardous substances from the HSE website (PDF)
• download a list of health hazards from dusty cargoes during the loading and unloading of ships from the HSE website (PDF)

Fire safety

The provisions of the Fire Precautions Act 1971 and the Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997 as amended require employers to assess fire risks and to obtain a fire certificate from the local fire authority. The certificate sets out the fire safety equipment that must be provided, such as alarms, escape routes and extinguishers. Read about fire safety on the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) website.