For consignments below the Load Related or Small Load Exemptions values (commonly referred to as “General Awareness”) the only vehicle kit requirement is a 2kgs dry powder fire extinguisher in the vehicle’s cab. Dry powder has the blue colour coding and is suitable for all types of fires.
It should be readily accessible in the cab and secure, so in a bracket and not loose. It should display a compliance mark (CE or Kitemark), be sealed with a tag, and show either the Expiry Date or Next Inspection Due date. If it has a pressure gauge then the dial needle should show in the green section.
There is a common notion that General Awareness loads are not affected by CDG / ADR - it’s incorrect to say this. They are allowed a partial exemption from the Regulations and persons are still required to receive training in line with their duties to understand the natures of the product dangers. The current version of ADR has an apparent contradiction that could be interpreted differently, however it is believed that this will be resolved going forwards. The DfT Dangerous Goods office has clarified the position saying that General Awareness training must be received.
(Note also that General Awareness vehicles don’t require to be marked with orange plates).