Haulage company Nicholson's Transport brought together industry experts for an informative workshop about the new legislation.

From July 1, any individual or company that handles or transports hazardous goods must complete paperwork that details exactly what they are carrying and who they are carrying it for.

More than 30 people representing chemical and manufacturing firms from across the North-East attended the session at the Belasis Business Centre in Billingham.

David Nicholson, managing director of Nicholson's Transport, said: "We organised the workshop because we want people to fully understand the new legislation, what it means to them and their legal obligations.

"The regulations affect so many businesses because what constitutes hazardous goods has been widened and includes things such as lithium batteries and lubricating oils.

"There has been some confusion about the new regulations, but hopefully we cleared that up with a one-stop session that gave people all of the information they need."

Representatives from companies including Corus, Avecia and Acumen Waste Services attended the workshop which was led by Ali Karim, founder of the Hazchem Network and a leading expert on the handling and transport of hazardous goods.

He said: "It's so important that transporters understand the new legislation because the onus of responsibility now falls onto the carrier rather than the consignor of the goods.

"The law was introduced in January but there has been a period of grace until July 1, after that the authorities are likely to come down hard on those who do not have the correct documents."