Multi-agency operation ensures safe carriage of dangerous goods in Cleveland

A multi-agency operation was carried out aimed at ensuring the safe carriage of dangerous goods in Cleveland.

Cleveland Police alongside colleagues from North Yorkshire Police, Northumbria Police, Driver Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), Environment Agency and Harbour Police, carried out the operation on Thursday 26th January at Teesport.

Nine dangerous goods examinations were carried out with five of the drivers receiving advice for issues including not carrying mandatory safety equipment. Four of the vehicles were in order.

A further seven light goods examinations were carried out and issues were identified with six of those vehicles, including tyre tread being below the legal limit and insecure body work. These drivers were issued with prohibitions to get the work done immediately.

One of the drivers was found to be allegedly disqualified and another was found to be uninsured. Both were reported for summons.

A further prohibition was issued for an overweight vehicle and a warning for exceeding driver hours.

Roads Policing Operations Sergeant Mark Kewley said: “This operation with our colleagues has shown that checks need to be carried out on vehicles like this. It is concerning to see these issues, particularly as some of these vehicles are really large and are carrying dangerous goods, as this could pose a serious safety risk to motorists.

“We will continue with operations like this so that we can ensure that any issues are dealt with and to help make our roads as safe as possible.”