Beginners guide on handling dangerous goods in air freight.
Dangerous goods are items that are considered a hazard to people, environment and the medium of transportation used. In air transport, these goods can be restricted or totally prohibited. ?These goods are classified into various categories in terms of the forms in which they exist and the degree of risk in handling and transporting them.
Some of the major categories are:
Many common items used every day in the bathroom, kitchen, garage or at work may seem harmless, however, due to their physical and chemical properties they can be very dangerous when transported by air. Some examples are:
§? Frozen fruit, vegetables, etc. — May be packed in dry ice (solid carbon dioxide).
§? Camping equipment — May contain flammable gases (butane, propane, etc.), flammable liquids (kerosene, gasoline, etc.), or flammable solids (hexamine, matches, etc.). x Chemicals — May contain items meeting any of the criteria for dangerous good
§? Pharmaceuticals — May contain items meeting any of the criteria for dangerous goods, particularly radioactive material, flammable liquids, flammable solids, oxidizers, organic peroxides, toxic, or corrosive substances.
§? Alcoholic beverages with more than 70 % (140 % proof) alcohol content, including 95 % alcohol and 150 % proof rum.
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There are regulations set in place to enable safe handling and transportation of the items considered as dangerous goods. There are regulatory bodies that are charged with developing guidelines and ensuring compliance. Some of them are International Air Transport Association DGR and ICAO. They have well laid out classifications and instructions on handling these particular items.
It is important to stay updated especially if you are a freight forwarder. Familiarize yourself with the current regulations, including any updates or amendments, and ensure full compliance. Stay up to date with the latest regulatory changes to avoid any penalties or non-compliance issues. All airlines are required to train their staff, both ground staff and crew, on how to identify and handle dangerous goods. The staff get refresher courses yearly as the scope of dangerous goods changes often.
Packaging and labelling of the dangerous goods are very important and there are guidelines as well on how to label them. The UN. for example, has special packaging that is built, approved, tested and certified to carry dangerous goods. UN rated packaging ensures dangerous goods are safely contained under normal conditions of transportation. Use clear and visible markings for your goods.
Documentation is also very important. Ensure all necessary documentation, such as the Shipper's Declaration for Dangerous Goods and Dangerous Goods Transport Document, is accurate and complete. This involves providing complete and correct information about the nature, quantity, and packaging of the dangerous goods being transported. This will save you a lot of time and unnecessary hustle especially when clearing the goods.
If you must store goods before transportation, it is important to use facilities that are safe for these types of goods. Many companies have special facilities that are aimed at providing safe storage of dangerous goods. Substances that are incompatible are segregated to avoid potential chemical reactions and hazards.
Lastly, always keep communication channels open between clients, shippers and everyone else involved. This is to ensure everyone complies and does their part. Share relevant information and ensure everyone is aware of their responsibilities and obligations.