IATA’s Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR)
Dangerous goods refer to goods that, when shipped, can harm the health of people and the environment. There are additional difficulties when shipping dangerous goods by air. However, its speed can present businesses with exciting opportunities.
To ensure your goods fly safely, the International Air Transportation Association (IATA) introduces the Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) manual. This manual is only for the goods shipped by air and only recognised by airlines.
What are IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR)?
IATA’s Dangerous Goods Regulations are presented in an easy-to-read manual. These regulations are based on the guidelines of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) for the safe transport of dangerous goods.
IATA’s Dangerous Goods Regulations also cover the United Nations classification of each item or substance, as well as its acceptability and requirements for air transportation. IATA goes above and beyond the ICAO and UN’s safety guidelines to guarantee that the highest safety standards are followed.
What is covered in the DGR?
IATA’s DGR covers the following categories:
Applicability
Limitations
Classification
Packing instructions
Packing specifications
Documentation
Handling
Radioactive materials
| Dangerous Goods Regulations Classes | |
|---|---|
| Class 1 | Explosives |
| Class 2 | Gases (flammable, non-flammable, toxic, and non-toxic) |
| Class 3 | Flammable liquids |
| Class 4 | Flammable solids |
| Class 5 | Oxidising substances and organic peroxides |
| Class 6 | Infectious and toxic substances |
| Class 7 | Radioactive material |
| Class 8 | Corrosives |
| Class 9 | Miscellaneous dangerous substance |
Dangerous Goods Regulations considerations for shipping dangerous goods
Documentation
Additional documentation will undoubtedly be needed when sending dangerous cargo. The type of product determines the number and type of documents needed.
A Declaration for Dangerous Goods is probably required. This document certifies that the products meet IATA’s DGR. A customs declaration is also required for them.
Another typical document required is a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). This includes the majority of the shipment’s critical hazardous information so that it may be handled properly.
The products’ ingredients.
Evaluation of the risks associated with usage, handling, and storage.
Safety precautions for workers and handlers.
Impact of exposure on health (if applicable).
Any emergency protocols to adhere to.
Again, depending on the products, the details of the documents required can vary greatly.
Packing instructions
Hazardous goods need more secure packing than general shipments; it is essential to protect surrounding cargo, plane, and handlers. The packing rules could vary depending on the type of cargo. The rules can include:
Primary packing material
The secondary packaging’s substance and necessity
Safety of the closures
Whether each product requires its own wrapping
Criteria for cushioning
The packaging’s capacity to tolerate variations in pressure
These rules frequently result in less effective packaging for your products. You are unable to maximise the number of goods like you may with other items. Given that the DGR is a legally binding requirement, it is imperative that you account for it in your supply chain costs.
Handling
The safety of anyone handling dangerous goods while shipping is of utmost importance. Therefore, it makes sense that the DGR addresses the safe handling of dangerous cargo.
The commodities being shipped may necessitate particular equipment and training.
As the shipper, you may significantly contribute to the safety of the handlers by properly marking, packing, and supplying the necessary paperwork for your items.
Radioactive substances
Transporting radioactive material poses significant obstacles, even in contrast to other hazardous products. The DGR has a whole section devoted to it since it is so important.
Role of ENS
When importing dangerous goods, it is crucial to comply with both the DGR and customs and safety regulations, including the Entry Summary Declaration (ENS).
Here is how DGR and ENS intersect:
Customs clearance delays: Failure to comply with the IATA DGR can cause delays in customs clearance. Dangerous goods that are incorrectly declared or improperly packaged may be subject to additional inspections or restrictions.
Safety and security: The safety and security declarations for importing goods are significantly influenced by both IATA DGR and ENS. Thus, shippers must adhere to these regulations to reduce risks and safeguard both people and the environment.
Accurate product description: You need to submit a detailed description of the goods in ENS. For dangerous goods, this description must accurately reflect the information contained in the Shipper’s Declaration, a critical document in IATA DGR compliance.
The bottom line
The process of shipping dangerous goods can be complicated, but it can be completed safely and effectively if IATA’s DGR is closely followed. Businesses can guarantee compliance and reduce risks by being aware of the classifications, packaging specifications, and required paperwork. Always keep in mind that the most important thing when transporting hazardous materials is safety.
Ready to ship your dangerous goods safely across the border? Ensure compliance with the safety & security standards by informing customs authorities ahead of time with our innovative ENS.
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