Risk and Safety Management in the Hazardous Materials Supply Chain: A Qualitative Review of Emerging Approaches and Technologies

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Saeed Lashgari 1
Hamid Mirzahossein 2
Amin Faridiaghdam 3
1 M.Sc., Student, Department of Civil -Transportation Planning, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran.
2 Associate Professor, Department of Civil -Transportation Planning, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran.
3 Ph.D., Candidate, Department of Civil -Transportation Planning, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin, Iran.
10.22034/road.2025.535599.2416
Abstract
The hazardous materials supply chain, due to the inherently high risks of these substances, requires a precise, technology-enabled, and multilayered management approach to prevent human, environmental, and financial losses. This study aims to identify key factors for risk reduction and safety enhancement by conducting a comprehensive thematic review of academic literature, institutional reports, and international regulatory frameworks. Employing a qualitative methodology and thematic analysis using MAXQDA software, the study reveals that technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), real-time tracking systems, artificial intelligence, and blockchain play a significant role in anticipating hazards, monitoring transport conditions, and enabling rapid emergency responses. In addition, continuous staff training, compliance with global safety standards such as UN ADR and IMDG, and the promotion of organizational safety culture are critical components in mitigating risk. Nevertheless, challenges such as high implementation costs, fragmented regulatory frameworks, underdeveloped infrastructure, and gaps in environmental and social research remain pressing. This article proposes a set of operational and policy recommendations and emphasizes the need for integrating advanced technologies, legal alignment, and international collaboration to achieve a safer and more sustainable hazardous goods supply chain.
Keywords
Supply chain
hazardous materials
safety
Internet of Things
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