Hazardous materials transport in the nineties

The organization of transport in line with environmental needs and the improvement of traffic safety are among the objectives of transport policy which are of special importance. The guidelines of dangerous goods transport policy are the principles of precaution and co-operation. Within the operational framework of transport policy, the measures have to take into consideration the complex correlation between traffic infrastructure, transport means and their technical standard as well as the behaviour of those involved in the transport of dangerous goods. As a consequence of the growing international integration there is an increasing demand for international co-ordination. Central tasks in this connection are the harmonization of the regulations but also their uniform application. These requests are to be seen from the aspects of safety but also of competition. In view of the imminent European internal market, the question of the harmonization of safety standards is gaining special importance. (orig./HSCH)