In roadside assistance, ensuring safety in all operations is not only a matter of corporate responsibility but also a legal obligation. In this context, the Safety Adviser becomes a key figure for all companies that handle dangerous goods or carry out activities related to their transport.
What do the regulations say?
Royal Decree 1566/1999, subsequently amended by Royal Decree 97/2014, establishes the following:
“Companies that transport dangerous goods by road, rail or inland waterway, or that are responsible for the loading or unloading operations linked to such transport, must designate, in accordance with the provisions of this Royal Decree and depending on the mode of transport and the goods transported, at least one safety adviser responsible for helping to prevent the risks to people, property or the environment inherent in such activities.”
This means that all companies with fuel tanks for their own consumption that do not have guaranteed cover for loading and unloading operations are required to have a Safety Adviser.
How does this affect roadside assistance companies?
In the case of companies that are part of the Network of Roadside Assistance Companies (REAC), the legal obligation translates into a very specific operational need:
- Companies that transport dangerous goods vehicles: such as tanker lorries, vans carrying chemical products, etc.
- Companies that drain wrong fuel at the roadside: an intervention involving the handling of fuels and hazardous waste.
In these cases, the Safety Adviser is essential in order to:
- Draw up and supervise safe working procedures.
- Coordinate training activities for the staff involved.
- Assess risks and establish effective preventive measures.
- Ensure regulatory compliance regarding the transport of dangerous goods.
REAC's commitment to safety
At REAC, we consider it essential that companies in the sector have a robust safety management system which includes a Safety Adviser where required by the regulations. Our commitment is to offer advice and resources to our member companies so that they comply with current legislation and protect both roadside assistance professionals and the environment in which they operate.
Conclusion
Having a Safety Adviser is not only a legal obligation for certain activities, but also a guarantee of professionalism and risk prevention. At REAC we remain committed to training, specialisation and regulatory compliance as fundamental pillars of a safe, effective and responsible roadside assistance service.