Background information

Hampshire and Isle of Wight has a large strategic road network and there are a significant number of vehicles that carry high consequence goods. There are safe working practices that mean an accident involving these vehicles is a low likelihood.

Dangerous goods may include corrosive, flammable, explosive, oxidising or spontaneously combustible substances.

If there was a road traffic collision involving a vehicle carrying such goods, it could result in an explosion or fire. An accident involving high consequence dangerous goods could impact people’s health, result in road closures for several days, potentially damage local infrastructure (Road, buildings, and bridges) and have environmental impacts.

Local Risk Rating

Very High

What does the Local Resilience Forum do to prepare?

There is regulation in place (the Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations 2009 ) to ensure that substances are transported safety. To learn more about the regulation click the button below

Regulations

Within the partnership, we work with partners to plan and test arrangements to respond to an accident involving high consequence dangerous goods. We also have well established relationships with local authority highways departments and National Highways.

Southampton,,England,Uk, ,05.20.2024, ,Traffic,On,The,M27
ocado andover fire plume with ICU unit in foreground

Associated Risks

  • Major fire
  • Building collapse or bridge closure/collapse
  • Local accident on motorways and major trunk roads

How can you prepare?

Before you travel

  • Check before you travel, Travel Updates – National Highways
  • Have an emergency kit in your care or basic items you may need when you travel. You may not be directly involved in an accident, but transport disruption could last for hours.
  • Plan your journey in advance.

When travelling

  • When driving adhere to the speed limits and drive safely.
  • Ensure your vehicle is kept in a road worthy and safe condition.
  • Avoid non-essential journeys during times of adverse weather.
  • Listen to travel updates.

If you are involved in an accident

  • Contact 999 and ask for the relevant emergency service.
  • Follow instructions given by the emergency services.