ADR Kit Requirements by Vehicle Type: Vans, Tankers & More
Transporting dangerous goods is a high-stakes operation, and compliance with the European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR) is an important factor. One key aspect of that compliance is ensuring your vehicle carries the correct ADR kit. What’s required can differ significantly depending on the type of vehicle you operate—whether it’s a van, a rigid lorry or a fully equipped tanker.
Understanding these distinctions means you can stay compliant, avoid penalties and, most importantly, keep everyone safe on the road. ADR kits from Hazchem Safety will help you remain compliant and protect lives.
What is an ADR kit?
An ADR kit is a legally required set of equipment that must be carried in any vehicle transporting hazardous goods. These kits are designed to manage emergencies such as leaks, spills, and exposure incidents. While the exact components may vary, most kits include items such as:
- High-visibility clothing
- Protective gloves and goggles
- Warning triangles or cones
- Eye wash solution
- A shovel and a drain seal
- Emergency instructions (in multiple languages if operating internationally)
The goal is to provide drivers and operators with immediate access to safety equipment that can reduce harm during an incident and ensure quick response times.
Why vehicle type matters
Not all vehicles face the same level of risk. ADR requirements are directly linked to the type of vehicle, the volume of dangerous goods carried, and the nature of the load.
For instance, a small van carrying limited quantities may need only a minimal kit, whereas a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) transporting bulk chemicals must adhere to stricter rules. The responsibility for compliance typically lies with both the operator and the driver, making it essential that both parties understand what’s required for their specific vehicle type.
ADR Kit requirements by vehicle type
A. Vans (Light Goods Vehicles)
Vans often transport dangerous goods in limited quantities or as part of mixed loads. These vehicles typically fall under limited quantity exemptions, but that doesn’t mean they can operate without an ADR kit.
Minimum requirements often include:
- Hi-vis clothing for each crew member
- Eye protection and gloves
- Basic spill control items (absorbent materials, small shovel)
- Emergency instructions
- Warning signage and labels
If the load exceeds limited quantity thresholds, the van may be subject to full ADR compliance, in which case a more comprehensive kit is needed.
- Rigid Lorries and HGVs
Larger vehicles like rigid lorries and articulated HGVs carry greater loads, increasing the risk level. As a result, they must carry complete ADR kits, which typically contain:
- Respiratory protective equipment (RPE)
- Chemical-resistant gloves and goggles
- Drain seal, plastic bag, and emergency escape mask
- Hazard warning cones and signage
- First aid kit and eyewash
- ADR documentation folder
These kits must be kept in a readily accessible location—usually in the cab—and should be tailored to the specific type of hazardous material carried.
- Tankers
Tankers transporting bulk liquids, gases or powders under pressure are the most stringently regulated vehicles under ADR.
Required kit items for tankers may include:
- Full chemical protection suits
- Bonding cables (to avoid static discharge)
- Overpack drums for spill containment
- Fire extinguishers appropriate to your load class
- Environmental protection gear (drain mats, booms)
- Gas-tight goggles and face masks
Failure to carry the correct equipment in a tanker can lead to severe penalties and increased liability in the event of an incident.
- Utility and specialist vehicles
Based on their operational context, vehicles used for waste transport, chemical response, or emergency services often require bespoke ADR kits. These may include:
- Additional PPE for crew
- Specialised containment gear
- Decontamination equipment
- Portable lighting and ventilation tools
Operators should consult their safety advisor or dangerous goods consultant to ensure these specialist kits meet both legal and situational needs.
Inspection, maintenance and replacement
An ADR kit is only effective if it’s properly maintained. Operators should carry out regular inspections to check for:
- Expired items (eye wash, gloves, masks)
- Damaged or missing components
- Correct quantities for crew size and vehicle class
Kits should be inspected before and after any journey involving dangerous goods, and any used or expired items should be replaced immediately. Keeping a restocking checklist on hand can streamline this process.
Staying up to date with regulations
ADR regulations change, so annual training, industry updates and consultation with regulatory bodies can help ensure you’re always compliant.
For the most current guidance, refer to the UK Government’s official ADR transport page, which provides detailed breakdowns by vehicle type and load class.
Ensure your vehicle is ADR-ready
Whether you’re operating a van, rigid HGV or tanker, ensuring your vehicle is properly equipped is non-negotiable. The risks are high, and the penalties for non-compliance are even higher. Don’t leave it to chance.
Explore the full range of ADR kits from Hazchem Safety tailored to different vehicle types and cargo classes, so that you can hit the road with peace of mind and full compliance.