Consignors and carriers of dangerous goods in Ireland, are liable under criminal law for any failure to comply with the rules for the transport of these goods. They are also at risk from civil proceedings for any damage to person or property which can be proven to have been caused by someone involved in the transport chain. Where to go and What to do Persons wishing to act as a DGSA, must qualify by passing approved examinations. Candidates are required to pass three papers an overall test of competence in the transport and handling of hazardous goods, a paper specific to the mode of transport needed by the DGSA and a test of knowledge of the various hazardous material classifications. Candidates who fail a paper need only be re-examined on the paper they fail.
Candidates have to take a refresher examination every five years.