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Dutch Road Signs and Traffic Sign Meanings

Know When Your Vehicle's Cargo is Restricted by the C22 Hazardous Substances Sign.

C22 - Closed to Vehicles Carrying Hazardous Substances Dutch road sign meaning

The C22 sign indicates that vehicles transporting specified dangerous goods are prohibited from entering the area ahead. This is a crucial traffic sign, particularly important for road safety and environmental protection in sensitive zones. Drivers of vehicles carrying hazardous materials must be aware of this restriction and follow signed alternative routes or comply with ADR regulations.

About the C22 - Closed to Vehicles Carrying Hazardous Substances road sign

Learn the key details of the C22 - Closed to Vehicles Carrying Hazardous Substances road sign, including its function, what it communicates to drivers, and how it applies in real traffic situations in the Netherlands. Use this overview to understand the sign clearly and recognise it confidently during the Dutch driving theory exam.

Definition of C22

C22 is a circular prohibition sign that restricts access for vehicles transporting specified hazardous materials, such as flammable, toxic, or explosive substances. The exact categories are defined in dangerous goods regulations and may be clarified by additional plates. The sign is placed to protect residents, emergency services, and the environment from the consequences of spills, fires, or explosions. Drivers must use approved hazardous goods routes instead.

Meaning of C22

This sign means that vehicles transporting certain hazardous or dangerous substances may not use this road or enter this zone. It keeps high risk loads away from densely populated, environmentally sensitive, or hard to evacuate areas where an incident could have serious consequences. Drivers carrying such goods must follow the designated alternative routes indicated by signs or route planners.

Allowed actions for C22

Drive through the area with vehicles that do not carry restricted hazardous substancesFollow the route with an empty or cleaned tank when this is permitted by regulationsUse designated hazardous goods routes that bypass the restricted road or zoneCheck load documents and route information before choosing roads near the restrictionComply with any additional plates that clarify which substances or vehicle types are exempt

Prohibited actions for C22

Entering the road or zone with vehicles that carry dangerous substances covered by the restrictionParking or standing with a vehicle that contains prohibited hazardous materials within the areaIgnoring mandatory diversion routes for hazardous goods indicated on route signsUsing the restricted road as a shortcut for dangerous goods transportFailing to check whether the load falls under the dangerous goods categories while planning the route

C22 - Closed to Vehicles Carrying Hazardous Substances road sign FAQ

Get clear, practical answers to the most common questions about the C22 - Closed to Vehicles Carrying Hazardous Substances road sign. Learn how the sign works, what rules it represents, and how it affects real driving situations. This FAQ strengthens your understanding and supports accurate decision making for the Dutch driving theory exam in the Netherlands.

What does the C22 road sign mean?

The C22 'Closed to Vehicles Carrying Hazardous Substances' sign means that vehicles carrying certain specified dangerous goods are not allowed to proceed beyond this point. It's a prohibition sign designed to protect specific areas from potential risks associated with hazardous cargo.

What should I do if I see the C22 sign?

If you are driving a vehicle that carries specified hazardous substances, you must not enter the area indicated by the C22 sign. Look for alternative routes that are specifically signed for such transport, often referred to as ADR routes.

Are there any exceptions to the C22 restriction?

Yes, exemptions and specific classes of hazardous goods affected by this sign depend on ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road) rules and local signage. It is the driver's responsibility to know if their specific cargo is restricted and to follow any posted bypasses or designated routes.

Is the C22 sign common in the Netherlands?

The C22 sign is part of the traffic sign system used in the Netherlands and other European countries to manage the transport of dangerous goods. It is typically placed to protect populated areas or environmentally sensitive locations from potential hazards associated with such transport.

Can I still drive through the area if my vehicle is carrying less dangerous goods?

The C22 sign specifically targets 'specified dangerous goods'. If your cargo does not fall into these specified categories according to ADR regulations, you may be allowed to proceed. However, always check local signage and regulations, as interpretations can vary.

What is the difference between this sign and a general prohibition sign?

While both are prohibition signs, the C22 is very specific. It prohibits a particular type of vehicle based on its cargo, whereas general prohibition signs might restrict all vehicles or specific actions like turning or overtaking. This sign focuses on safety related to hazardous materials.

C22 - Closed to Vehicles Carrying Hazardous Substances road sign image

A clear reference image of the C22 - Closed to Vehicles Carrying Hazardous Substances road sign used in the Netherlands.

C22 - Closed to Vehicles Carrying Hazardous Substances road sign

Other names for the C22 - Closed to Vehicles Carrying Hazardous Substances

The C22 - Closed to Vehicles Carrying Hazardous Substances road sign may also be known by these alternative names or terms.

Dangerous goods banHazmat transport prohibitedADR restrictionHazardous cargo forbidden

Closure & One-Way Signs (C) road sign category

The C22 - Closed to Vehicles Carrying Hazardous Substances road sign is part of the Closure & One-Way Signs (C) category, which groups together signs with similar rules and functions.

Dive into Dutch road sign knowledge

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