Article 7 Dangerous and polluting goods

If dangerous or polluting goods are to be carried, the shipper shall, before handing over the goods, and in addition to the particulars referred to in article 6, paragraph 2, inform the carrier clearly and in writing of the danger and the risks of pollution inherent in the goods and of the precautions to be taken.

Where the carriage of the dangerous or polluting goods requires an authorization, the shipper shall hand over the necessary documents at the latest when handing over the goods.

Where the continuation of the carriage, the discharge or the delivery of the dangerous or polluting goods are rendered impossible owing to the absence of an administrative authorization, the shipper shall bear the costs for the return of the goodsto the port of loading or a nearer place, where they may be discharged and delivered or disposed of.

In the event of immediate danger to life, property or the environment, the carrier shall be entitled to unload the goods, to render them innocuous or, provided that such a measure is not disproportionate to the danger they represent, to destroy them, even if, before they were taken over, he was informed or was apprised by other means of the nature of the danger or the risks of pollution inherent in the goods.

Where the carrier is entitled to take the measures referred to in paragraphs 3 or 4 above, he may claim compensation for damages.