New mandatory training: Competence Certificate Dangerous goods Handling
Companies that store more than 2,500 kilos of dangerous goods are required under PGS 15 to always have a ‘competent’ person on site. Previously, this requirement could be met with the training ‘Vakbekwaamheid Behandeling Gevaarlijke Stoffen (VBGS)’, but this course no longer exists since the CBR stopped examining it. However, the obligation remains, explains our instructor Jannie van Vliet. That’s why she has developed a new, suitable training, which will be offered for the first time starting September 3.
When storing dangerous goods, at least one competent person must always be present to oversee compliance with regulations and the monitoring of substances. The new training ‘Competence Certificate Dangerous Goods Handling’ prepares you for this role. It meets the requirements of PGS 15, the guideline for storing packaged dangerous goods.
Two versions of PGS
“Currently, two versions of PGS 15 are in effect: the 2016 version and the 2021 New Style version. If your company has an environmental permit issued before the introduction of the Environment and Planning Act, PGS 15:2016 applies. New or expanding companies, receiving their permit under the Environment and Planning Act, fall under PGS 15:2021. But in both versions of the guideline, our training is mandatory.”
Compact four-day training in Rotterdam
The training Competence Certificate Dangerous Goods Handling takes place at the logistics hotspot RDM Werf in Rotterdam, one of our training locations. In this four-day program (three theory days, one practical day) you will learn everything about:
- Laws and regulations
- Properties, classification, and labeling of dangerous goods
- Packaging, storage, and combined storage
- Documentation and administration
- Guidelines according to PGS 15
- Emergency response
On the final day, you will take an exam in the afternoon, prepared by Special Cargo College. If you pass, you will receive the Competence Certificate. This ensures your employer complies again with the legal requirements of PGS 15. The Competence Certificate Dangerous Goods Handling is valid for five years.
“Ensure at least two certified employees, so continuity is guaranteed during holidays or illness.”
Relieving employers of concerns
When regulators such as the DCMR carry out an inspection, employers must demonstrate that at least one competent employee is always present during business hours. With this training, Special Cargo College takes that burden off your shoulders. “Our advice is: ensure at least two certified employees, so continuity is guaranteed during holidays or illness,” says Jannie.
Tailor-made options available
In addition to open enrollment, Special Cargo College also offers the option to provide the training in-company, fully customized. The training is then tailored to your business, allowing as many employees as needed to be certified at the same time. Jannie: “And what’s important to know: this function cannot be outsourced, unlike a Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser. The competent person must actually be employed by the company. So make sure everything is in order, not only for inspections but above all for safety.”
Benefits
The benefits of this training at a glance:
- As an employer, you comply with the legal requirements of PGS 15.
- Unique location: logistics hotspot with views of the Port of Rotterdam.
- Course developed and delivered by experienced instructors, including Jannie van Vliet.
- Comfortable learning: ample parking and fully catered days.
- Oral exam available for those with dyslexia or limited Dutch proficiency.
Register or want to know more?
For registration or more information about the training, visit the course page. Do you want to know whether your company falls under these obligations, or do you have questions about the course content? Our consultants are here to help you.