The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is a trade organization that facilitates the safe transport of dangerous goods by air. Understanding how to pack and label hazardous goods is only one part of the IATA’s Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR). This standardized global reference manual requires shippers to fill out and sign a Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD), or Shipper’s Declaration, if they plan on transporting dangerous goods by air.
The format of a DGD is quite specific. If you plan to ship hazardous material by air, it is essential to understand how to fill out an IATA dangerous goods form.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- What Is a Dangerous Goods Declaration?
- Why Does IATA Require a DGD?
- How to Create a DGD
- Earn Your IATA Certification From Hazmat School
What Is a Dangerous Goods Declaration?
According to IATA’s Dangerous Goods Regulations, shippers must classify and describe dangerous goods in a Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods.
A DGD is a form that lists any goods that fall under the dangerous goods category. The declaration also confirms that these items have been properly packed, labeled and declared. Once filled out, either physically or electronically, all consignors, or those shipping items, must sign the DGD.
Why Does IATA Require a DGD?
A Shipper’s Declaration helps shippers follow all national and international laws concerning the transportation of dangerous goods. A DGD places the responsibility on the shipper to provide critical information to carriers or aircraft operators before hazardous goods are in the air. It also provides a consistent declaration format throughout the air transportation industry.
How to Create a DGD
A DGD comes in two formats — open and column. Whichever format you choose, the information provided will be the same. Before filling out the form, ensure the dangerous goods shipment has been prepared according to DGR regulations. When filling out the form, make sure to:
- Use the correct, most up-to-date DGD.
- Fill it out legibly and in the correct manner.
- Ensure all information is accurate.
On the form, you will include the shipper’s name, address, airwaybill number and transport details. The Nature and Quantity of Dangerous Goods box is one of the most critical sections. Shippers must provide all the information needed to identify dangerous goods in a standardized format. This regulated content ensures emergency responders have the immediate details they need to act in case of an emergency.
Earn Your IATA Certification From Hazmat School
Only people who are IATA certified should package dangerous goods and sign off on a Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods. If your job involves labeling and marking packages being shipped by air or you plan on shipping hazardous materials by air, you must complete an IATA dangerous goods shipping course.
Learn the fundamentals of shipping dangerous goods as laid out by the DGR at Hazmat School. Our proficiency-based training includes everything you need to know to create an IATA Dangerous Goods Declaration. Register for our online IATA course today.
Manages Hazmat School’s E-Learning courses and blog. Kirstie has extensive experience in the online training and education industry. Kirstie has worked with courses that offer a variety of safety and environmental certifications that satisfy OSHA, EPA and DOT requirements.
