RID 2025: entry into force and official text
The 2025 edition of RID (Regulation concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Rail) entered into force on 1 January 2025. Transitional provisions can permit limited continued use of earlier requirements, subject to the exact provision. RID must be read together with the current edition and any published corrections relevant to the operation.
Consult OTIF's official RID editions and notices. The International Union of Wagon Keepers (UIP) report offers an industry-focused guide to the 2025 changes; it is not a substitute for the binding text.
Filling terminology and tank-wagon operations
The 2025 amendments clarified the distinct concepts of degree of filling and filling ratio, which are used differently when assessing liquids and gases. Operators should verify the applicable RID section, the dangerous goods entry, filling limits, operating temperatures and remaining contents.
Do not use a single generic filling percentage for every dangerous goods substance. The safe fill depends on the substance, the tank and its approved operating conditions.
Tank equipment and level gauges
The changes include requirements affecting tank-wagon fittings and measurement equipment. The UIP technical guidance discusses the deletion of the former special provision TE16 and the amendments to RID 6.8.2.2.11 concerning transparent materials in level gauges where direct contact with dangerous goods is possible.
Review the transition rules and the original tank approval before applying new construction requirements to a previously authorised vehicle.
Bulk loads, refrigerated gases and tank records
The 2025 framework introduced or revised rail-specific provisions affecting carriage of molten aluminium in bulk and certain refrigerated liquefied gas operations. Practical responsibilities extend beyond paperwork: examination of equipment, emergency measures, maintenance, operating instructions and proof of compliance may be needed.
RID also acknowledges the possibility of keeping the tank record electronically, provided the prescribed information remains available and reliable.
What a dangerous goods safety adviser should review
For the wagon and substance involved, confirm the UN number, RID Table A entry, permitted tank code, any special provisions, the latest inspection and maintenance records, filling limits, marking, loading and unloading procedure, and the responsibilities of the consignor, filler, carrier, unloader, wagon keeper and ECM.
This page explains selected RID 2025 changes. For future amendments and current operations, compare the text with the relevant current RID edition and official OTIF corrections. DGSA provides railway dangerous goods advice for operations involving Spain.
Discuss your operation in Spain
For help with dangerous goods classification, safety adviser duties, documentation, tank or package requirements and staff training, please contact us with the goods, quantities, transport modes and activities involved.