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Understanding Part 7 of the TDG Regulations: Emergency Response Plans
Trucking safety manager developing emergency response plan (ERAP) | Credit: Freepik
Introduction
When transporting dangerous goods across Canada, preparation and safety are everything. Accidents can happen, and when they do, having a clear and compliant emergency response plan in place is critical. Part 7 of the Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) Regulations outlines specific legal requirements for Emergency Response Assistance Plans (ERAPs). These regulations ensure that companies are equipped to respond quickly and effectively to incidents involving hazardous materials.
This article breaks down what Part 7 covers, who it applies to, and how your company can stay compliant.
What Is Part 7 of the TDG Regulations?
Part 7 of the TDG Regulations focuses entirely on Emergency Response Assistance Plans. An ERAP is a formal, government-approved plan that outlines how a company will respond to an emergency involving specific types and quantities of dangerous goods.
The purpose of Part 7 is to make sure that when certain high-risk goods are involved in an incident, a pre-planned, coordinated emergency response can be launched immediately. These plans are mandatory for certain classes and quantities of dangerous goods that pose a greater threat to public safety and the environment.
Who Needs an ERAP?
Not all dangerous goods shipments require an ERAP. The requirement depends on the classification and quantity of the materials being transported. For example, companies transporting large quantities of explosive materials (Class 1), toxic gases (Class 2), or flammable liquids (Class 3) may be required to have an ERAP.
Transport Canada provides detailed thresholds for each class of goods, and it is the shipper’s responsibility to verify whether their load requires an ERAP. If a shipment meets or exceeds the regulatory thresholds, an ERAP must be in place before transport begins.
Key Components of an ERAP
An ERAP must include several key elements to be approved by Transport Canada. These include:
- A detailed description of the dangerous goods being transported
- Identification of the personnel and organizations that will respond in the event of an incident
- A list of available emergency response equipment
- Procedures for containment, fire suppression, evacuation, and cleanup
- Contact information for key responders and support organizations
The plan must also demonstrate that responders are trained and capable of dealing with the specific materials listed.
Applying for and Registering an ERAP
To create an ERAP, companies must apply through Transport Canada. The application process involves submitting detailed documentation about the goods, the company’s emergency response capabilities, and the plan itself.
Once approved, Transport Canada will issue an ERAP Reference Number (ERN). This number must accompany all shipping documentation and be clearly listed in the transportation manifest.
ERAPs must be reviewed and updated regularly to reflect changes in materials, procedures, or response teams. A valid ERN must always be available and up to date during transport.
What Happens in an Emergency?
If an incident involving regulated dangerous goods occurs, the ERAP must be activated. The person in control of the goods or the driver must immediately notify emergency responders and activate the response plan.
The ERAP outlines who to contact, what steps to take, and how to contain or manage the situation. The emergency response team must act quickly and follow the plan exactly as approved.
In addition to managing the incident, the company is also responsible for reporting the event to Transport Canada within the required timeframes.
Staying Compliant with Part 7
Non-compliance with Part 7 can lead to serious consequences. Companies that transport regulated dangerous goods without an approved ERAP when required may face steep fines, loss of operating authority, or legal action.
To stay compliant:
- Audit your current dangerous goods list and quantities
- Review whether any shipments require an ERAP
- Ensure your ERAP is approved and up to date
- Train your team and conduct regular emergency drills
- Keep your ERN on hand and accessible at all times during transport
How Nutech TDG App Helps with ERAP Compliance
Managing emergency response plans on paper or through outdated systems can lead to confusion and missed steps during a crisis. That’s why more carriers are turning to digital solutions like Nutech TDG.
Nutech TDG is a mobile-friendly app designed specifically for drivers and companies transporting dangerous goods across Canada. The app includes built-in ERAP features, allowing users to store their ERN, access emergency procedures, and follow step-by-step guidance during an incident.
With automatic label generation, real-time documentation support, and quick access to safety checklists, Nutech TDG helps carriers stay compliant, organized, and safe on every load.
Download Nutech TDG and try it for free today! Available on Apple and Android.
Final Thoughts
Understanding and complying with Part 7 of the TDG Regulations is not just about meeting legal requirements. It’s about protecting drivers, first responders, the public, and the environment in the event of a dangerous goods incident.
Whether you’re moving flammable liquids, toxic gases, or explosives, having a clear and effective ERAP in place is essential. With the right training, planning, and tools like Nutech TMS: tdg, your company can stay ready for anything the road throws your way.
Explore Nutech TDG and Nutech TMS today and simplify your emergency planning with a digital solution built for Canadian carriers.