Retailers are reminded of dangerous goods rules following conviction

The Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Air is regulated by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) who have recently brought a successful prosecution against an online discount retailer for shipping an acid-based drain cleaner by air as a routine postal item. Unfortunately, the package split open injuring two postal workers.

The package contained 2 x 1litre bottles of Sulphuric Acid UN1830 otherwise known as “One Shot Liquid Drain Cleaner,” which was shipped on a cargo aircraft from Bournemouth to Jersey. As this substance contained a corrosive substance it was subject to the dangerous goods regulations.

The company, Brooks Discount Ltd, trading as Top Brand Discounts 4 U were found guilty in court in April 2015 and fined £5000 plus compensation totalling £1050. In addition the company had also to pay the CAA’s costs of £12,000.

If your company is involved with retail items which may have a corrosive or a flammable liquid content and require advice on the correct shipment of these items by road, sea or air then please give us a call and speak to the experts on 0800 328 3297.