Dangerous Goods

Package Certification

For over 30 years Pira International has, on behalf of the Department for Transport, acted as the authority for approval of packaging for the transport of dangerous goods.

The Department has recently concluded a review of the way in which certain competent authority functions specified in the Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Use of Transportable Pressure Equipment Regulations are delivered. After wide and comprehensive consultation with stakeholders it was decided that from 1 April 2007 responsibility for the certification of dangerous goods packaging within the United Kingdom would be transferred to the Department’s Vehicle Certification Agency. The unit providing this service will be known as the VCA Dangerous Goods Office (VCA-DG). It will certify packaging for all classes of dangerous goods other than class 7 and for all modes of transport, on behalf of the Department for Transport, the Maritime and Coastguard Agencyand the Civil Aviation Authority.

In announcing the change, the Department emphasised that no criticism of or dissatisfaction with PIRA International’s performance should be inferred.  PIRA has carried out the function diligently and efficiently for more than 30 years and packaging bearing the GB certification mark is recognised throughout the world as having been judged rigorously and objectively against the criteria set by the international dangerous goods transport regulations. Under the VCA, the highest standards of integrity and resilience of the certification regime established by Pira International will be maintained, whilst achieving best value for money for all stakeholders.

Most of Pira’s Dangerous Goods Office staff will transfer with the work, which will ensure continuity of service to all existing customers.  The Office will remain at the current premises although from April, all correspondence should be addressed to:

VCA  DG
Cleeve Road
Leatherhead
Surrey
KT22 7NF

The transfer will have no immediate effect on existing approvals; however, new certificates will be issued under the VCA logo. Fee levels set for the calendar year 2007 will not be affected.

Pira's test laboratories are unaffected by this change and continue to provide dangerous goods and other package testing services.

Click here for further information on VCA-DG and certification.