Prohibition of Traffic with Vehicles Loaded with Dangerous Goods
The sign indicates a prohibition of traffic with vehicles carrying loads that are subject to labeling requirements with an orange sign according to regulations.
When You See This Sign
When you see the sign you must not enter with a vehicle loaded with dangerous goods that, according to the regulations, must be marked with an orange placard. If you are transporting such goods you must choose a different route; if your cargo is not subject to the requirement you may continue but should be certain of the classification.
Rules & Regulations
- The prohibition applies to vehicles carrying dangerous goods that, under applicable regulations, must be marked with orange placard(s) (ADR/transport regulations).
- The prohibition applies to the entire vehicle including trailers, tank trailers, or any other attached unit which, together with the load, requires orange marking.
- If your vehicle is not subject to the orange placard requirement (for example ordinary goods or cargo that falls outside the marking obligation) you may proceed; check the transport documentation if you are unsure.
- The prohibition remains in effect until it is explicitly lifted by an end sign or until you leave the road section where the sign is posted; local variations may occur, follow any supplementary signage.
Tips for Drivers
- Before you drive: check the transport documents and the cargo's classification to determine whether an orange placard is required under ADR or applicable national regulations.
- Plan alternative routes in advance if you regularly transport dangerous goods — these signs are often placed at tunnel entrances, in city centers, or at ferry approaches where dangerous goods are prohibited.
- Bear in mind that the prohibition also applies to attached trailers or tanks, so make an overall assessment of the vehicle and its cargo before passing the sign.
- If in doubt: contact your employer/dispatcher or the person responsible for the cargo before passing the sign; take a detour rather than risking an enforcement order or fines.
Common Mistakes
- Believing the sign only applies to large lorries and not to smaller vehicles or passenger cars carrying dangerous goods.
- Assuming that an 'empty' vehicle is automatically exempt — residues in tanks or packaging may still require marking under the regulations.
- Confusing this prohibition sign with a general warning or information sign about hazards; this is a direct traffic ban for specified cargo contents.
Test Yourself
Road Sign: Prohibition of Traffic with Vehicles Loaded with Dangerous Goods
How should you act when you see this sign?
- A Vehicles loaded with dangerous goods are not allowed to pass.
- B All motor vehicles are forbidden to pass.
- C Vehicles with trailers are forbidden.
- D Trucks over a certain length are not allowed to pass.
Exam Tip
On the theory test they may ask what determines the prohibition — remember: it is whether the cargo needs an orange placard according to the regulations, not the type of vehicle itself.
Did You Know?
The orange marking rule comes from the international ADR regulations and the sign is often used at tunnel portals, bridges, or in city centers where dangerous goods are inappropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the sign apply if my tanker is empty?
It depends on whether residues remain or whether the transport is still considered dangerous goods under the regulations. Check the ADR rules and the transport documentation; when in doubt it is often treated as dangerous until it has been cleaned and exempted according to the provisions.
Does the prohibition also apply to small quantities, for example gas cylinders in a van?
If the small quantities are subject to the orange placard requirements under the applicable regulations, the prohibition applies. Check the classification, quantity limits and whether exceptions for limited quantities apply under ADR.
How do I know if my cargo should be marked with an orange placard?
Transport documents (dangerous goods document), the classification and any restrictions in ADR indicate whether an orange placard is required. Your employer or the person responsible for the transport should be able to inform you.
When does the prohibition cease to apply?
The prohibition applies until there is a sign that explicitly lifts the prohibition or until you leave the road section where the sign was displayed. Always follow any supplementary signage and local rules.
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