🚨 Dangerous Goods Transport Breach in Rouen Tunnel

On July 16th, two trucks carrying dangerous goods were stopped in the Grand-Mare Tunnel (RN28) in Rouen, despite a prohibition in place since November 2011. The ban aims to prevent accidents in this closed tunnel, which handles over 42,000 vehicles daily. Such restrictions are essential due to the high risk of fire, explosion, or toxic emissions when dangerous substances transit confined spaces.
The inspection was conducted by the DREAL Normandy in collaboration with law enforcement and emergency services.
📊 Inspection Outcomes:
- 4 trucks were checked (3 French, 1 foreign).
- 2 trucks were found transporting dangerous goods in violation of the tunnel restriction.
- 14 offences were recorded (1 criminal, 13 administrative), including 12 directly related to dangerous goods transport.
- A €4,500 deposit was imposed on the non-resident carrier.
The authorities reaffirmed that random checks will continue to ensure compliance and public safety.
🧪 Transporting Hydrofluoric Acid (UN 1790)
Hydrofluoric acid (aqueous hydrogen fluoride) is an extremely hazardous substance, classified as both toxic and corrosive, and its transport is strictly regulated under the ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road).
Official ADR Designation:
- UN 1790 – HYDROFLUORIC ACID, aqueous solution
- Class: 8 (corrosive)
- Hazard identification number (Kemler code): 886 (corrosive + toxic by inhalation)
- Packing group: I or II (depending on concentration)
🚧 ADR 2025 Tunnel Code:
For UN 1790, the tunnel restriction code depends on acid concentration:
- UN 1790, HYDROFLUORIC ACID, aqueous solution, with more than 60% acid
Tunnel code: C/D - UN 1790, HYDROFLUORIC ACID, aqueous solution, with 60% acid or less
Tunnel code: E
🔍 What do the tunnel codes mean?
- C/D:
- C → Prohibited in category C, D, and E tunnels if transported in tanks (including IBCs over 3,000 L).
- D → Prohibited in category D and E tunnels if transported in packages (non-bulk).
- E:
- Fully prohibited in category E tunnels, regardless of packaging (tanks or packages).
🧠 These rules are critical for route planning and risk prevention in the transport of dangerous goods.