IATA Hidden Dangerous Goods

Operators' acceptance staff must be adequately trained to identify and detect dangerous goods presented as general cargo or hidden in passenger baggage. Staff may be alerted by fumes, odors, smoke, or information written on the package. If cargo acceptance or passenger check-in staff suspects that cargo or baggage might contain dangerous goods, they should seek confirmation from shippers and passengers regarding the contents of any item.

In addition to training, cargo acceptance and passenger check-in staff must be provided with the following information:

• General descriptions that are often used for cargo or baggage that may contain dangerous goods
• Other indications that dangerous goods may be present (e.g., labels; markings)
• Dangerous goods that may be carried with passengers in accordance with Subsection 2.3

A diamond-shaped pictogram that is required by the Globally Harmonized System for Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) may indicate the presence of dangerous goods. Freight forwarders, ground handling agents, and operators should be familiar with these labels.

Cargo acceptance and passenger check-in staff should be familiar with commodities that often include hidden dangerous goods. This includes items such as auto parts, company materials (COMAT), electrical equipment, household goods, media equipment, medical supplies and pharmaceuticals, and toolboxes. Shippers must check the consignment against the class definitions and special provisions of the DGR and confirm that no part of these goods is dangerous.

To learn more about IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations visit our IATA DGR Online Training Certification Courses web page.