What are the best practices for managing hazardous materials in air transportation?

1 Identify and classify hazmat

The first step in managing hazmat in air transportation is to identify and classify the type and quantity of the material. This is done according to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Technical Instructions, which provide a list of nine hazard classes and several subdivisions. Each class has specific requirements for labeling, documentation, and segregation. For example, class 1 covers explosives, class 2 covers gases, and class 7 covers radioactive materials. You should consult the ICAO Technical Instructions or the Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) before shipping or accepting any hazmat.

3 Document and declare hazmat

The third step in managing hazmat in air transportation is to document and declare the material to the carrier and the authorities. The documentation must include a shipper's declaration for dangerous goods, which contains the details of the material, the shipper, the consignee, and the emergency contact. The declaration must be signed by the shipper and attached to the air waybill. The declaration must also be accompanied by any other relevant documents, such as safety data sheets, certificates, or permits. The declaration must be made in advance and in accordance with the carrier's and the destination's policies and procedures.

4 Handle and load hazmat

The fourth step in managing hazmat in air transportation is to handle and load the material with care and caution. The handling and loading must be done by trained and qualified personnel who are familiar with the hazards and the precautions of the material. The handling and loading must also follow the instructions and guidance of the ICAO Technical Instructions and the IATA DGR, which specify how to store, stack, secure, and segregate hazmat on board the aircraft. For example, some hazmat must be loaded in specific locations, away from passengers, crew, or other cargo. Some hazmat must also be inspected and monitored during the flight.

5 Respond and report hazmat incidents

The fifth step in managing hazmat in air transportation is to respond and report any incidents involving the material. An incident is any occurrence that results in the release, damage, or loss of hazmat, or that poses a threat to the safety of the aircraft, the crew, the passengers, or the environment. An incident must be reported immediately to the pilot-in-command, the carrier, and the relevant authorities. An incident must also be responded to promptly and effectively, following the emergency response procedures and the emergency contact information provided by the shipper or the carrier.

6 Train and update hazmat staff

The sixth and final step in managing hazmat in air transportation is to train and update the staff involved in the process. The training and updating must cover the general awareness, the function-specific knowledge, the safety measures, and the security aspects of hazmat. The training and updating must also comply with the ICAO Technical Instructions and the IATA DGR, which require periodic and recurrent courses and examinations for hazmat staff. The training and updating must also reflect the changes and updates in the regulations and standards of hazmat, as well as the best practices and lessons learned from hazmat incidents.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?