UNUnited Nations Economic Commission for Europe

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Luxembourg ratifies Agreement on the carriage of dangerous goods by inland waterways

Geneva, 6 June 2007 -- Luxembourg has ratified the European Agreement Concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Inland Waterways (ADN) on 24 May 2007.

The ADN was established to ensure a high level of safety for the international carriage of dangerous goods by inland waterways; to contribute to environmental protection by preventing any pollution resulting from accidents or incidents during such carriage; and to facilitate international transport and trade.

Regulations annexed to the Agreement contain technical requirements for the international carriage of dangerous substances and articles in packages and in bulk on board inland navigation vessels and tank vessels, as well as uniform provisions concerning the construction and operation of such vessels. They also establish international requirements and procedures for inspections, issuance of certificates of approval, recognition of classification societies, monitoring, and training and examination of experts.

The ADN was adopted on 25 May 2000 in Geneva at a Diplomatic Conference organized jointly by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) and the Central Commission for the Navigation on the Rhine (CCNR).

With six Contracting States thus far, including: Austria, Bulgaria, Hungary, Luxembourg, Netherlands and Russian Federation, the Agreement will enter into force once one more State has deposited its instrument of ratification, acceptance, approval or accession.

Pending the entry into force of ADN, the annexed Regulations are updated on a regular basis at a Joint UNECE/CCNR Meeting of Experts for recommended application through national legislation. The current version is the 2007 version (United Nations publication Sales No.E/F/R.06.VIII.2).

For further information please contact:

José Capel Ferrer, Director, or
Olivier Kervella, Chief, Dangerous Goods and Special Cargoes Section
Palais des Nations
CH - 1211 Geneva 10, Switzerland

Phone: +41 (0) 22 917 2456
Fax: +41 (0) 22 917 0039
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://www.unece.org/trans/danger/danger.htm

Ref: ECE/TRANS/07/N11