Dangerous goods transport

Transport of dangerous goods by air

The transport of dangerous goods by air is a critical subject given the risks these goods can pose to flight safety and people. This page is an introduction to the rules of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations, which play a central role in regulating this type of transport.

These regulations impose specific requirements concerning the packaging, labeling, documentation, and handling of dangerous goods to minimize the risks during air transport.

Obligations and procedures

To ensure safety during the air transport of these goods, the regulations impose:

  • Packaging must prevent leaks and breakages. Labels must specify the type of hazard.
  • The nature of the goods, their quantity, and the safety measures to be taken must accompany each shipment.
  • Personnel involved in the handling and transport of these goods must be trained in the potential risks and the management of emergency situations.

IATA REFORM 2023

The 2023 IATA reform introduced several important updates and changes, the main ones being:

  1. Update of dangerous goods classifications:
    • New substances have been added to the dangerous goods lists and the hazard level of other substances has been reassessed.
  2. Revisions of packaging requirements:
    • Requirements have been changed to include more robust and leak-resistant packaging.
  3. Labeling and marking :
    • Marking requirements have been revised to be made clearer.
  4. Documentation :
    • Formats and requirements for transport documents have been further standardized and additional fields have been added.
  5. Training and competence :
    • Training programs have been updated to include new information on regulatory changes and handling practices. Their validity period has also been updated.
  6. Technologies :
    • IATA has introduced guidelines on the use of new technologies such as real-time tracking systems for dangerous goods shipments.
  7. Environment and sustainability :
    • Specific measures have been integrated to minimize the environmental impact of dangerous goods transport

contact

ADR Specialist and transport safety adviser

Yves Kirschmann is available for any question.

 

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 +41794788823

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