During a four-day operation, roads policing officers issued penalty notices and warnings to HGV drivers for carrying dangerous loads on the region's roads. Operation Chemical involved checks on eighty-six lorries along the A11 in Norfolk, A14 in Suffolk, M11 in Essex, and A1 in Cambridgeshire.

The operation, conducted from 7 to 10 May, included collaboration among Commercial Vehicle Units (CVUs) from Essex, Norfolk, and Suffolk forces, along with the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency. Sgt Jason Dearsley of Essex Police noted that intervention was necessary when ten drivers were found to be exceeding their allowed driving hours, risking reduced concentration and increased danger.

The focus was on the safe transportation of hazardous goods, vehicle roadworthiness, and driver welfare. Sgt Dearsley emphasised the importance of stringent regulations for the safe movement of goods to protect all road users.

A notable incident involved a HGV being driven by someone without the required HGV licence. The operation resulted in four drivers receiving penalty notices, sixteen receiving warnings or advice, and one case involving a radioactive shipment requiring further investigation. Additionally, twelve vehicles were stopped for carrying overweight loads, eight for insecure loads, and eight drivers were found not wearing seatbelts.