Belarus has approved updated rules (Decree N.71) for the transport of dangerous goods on inland waterways, replacing a 2009 decree. The new rules, which take effect from 1 July, align with the UN Model Regulations, and several chapters have been revised to reflect this. The United Nations (UN) Model Regulations defines dangerous goods as "substances or articles which are capable of posing a risk to health, safety, property, or the environment and which are shown in the list of dangerous goods in these Regulations or which are classified according to these Regulations".
The decree includes requirements for stakeholders involved in transport, emergency planning procedures, port responsibilities for loading and unloading, placement of cargo onboard vessels, conditions for vessels carrying dangerous goods, and documentation requirements. Specific provisions are included for oil tankers.