The IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations is used across the air-cargo chain. The people who need direct access—and the way they use the manual—depend on the functions they perform, the goods handled and the organisation’s procedures.
Shippers and consignors
Organisations offering dangerous goods for air transport may use the DGR when identifying the applicable entry, selecting a packing instruction, checking quantity limits, preparing marks and labels, and completing transport documentation. Access should be available to the competent personnel responsible for those decisions.
Freight forwarders and logistics providers
Forwarders may receive shipment information, prepare or check documents, arrange routing and communicate with operators or handling agents. The functions performed determine the level of training and reference access required; the presence of a manual should not be treated as authority to complete tasks outside a person’s competence.
Ground handling and acceptance personnel
Teams involved in acceptance and handling may need to verify documentation, packages, marks and labels, apply handling procedures or respond to irregularities. They should have access to the current information and organisation procedures required for the functions they perform.
Airlines and operators
Operators use dangerous-goods information across acceptance, loading, handling, storage, communication and emergency arrangements. Access requirements should be set by the operator’s approved procedures and the responsibilities assigned to each role.
Dangerous-goods specialists, trainers and managers
Advisers, instructors, compliance managers and procedure owners may need the DGR to research questions, prepare controlled material, review processes and support operational teams. They should also monitor edition changes and ensure internal documents remain aligned with current requirements.
How many printed copies should an organisation hold?
There is no useful one-size-fits-all answer. Review where dangerous-goods decisions are made, how quickly staff need access, whether copies can be shared without delaying work, and how controlled documents are issued across sites or shifts. Record the edition and location of each copy and remove superseded manuals from operational use.
- List the sites and work areas where the DGR is consulted
- Identify the functions performed at each location
- Confirm who owns each controlled copy
- Allow for trainers, specialists and remote teams
- Set a date for replacement and withdrawal of the previous edition
Training and procedures still matter
A printed DGR is a reference tool, not a substitute for function-appropriate training, supervision or documented procedures. Interpac can discuss IATA dangerous-goods training and consultancy for organisations that need support alongside the manual.
Pre-order the printed 68th Edition
Interpac is accepting pre-orders for the printed IATA DGR 68th Edition for customers in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Email info@interpac.ie or telephone 01 294 0600 with the number of copies required and the delivery location. Interpac will confirm the exact product details, price and anticipated availability.
Official source
IATA’s official store page identifies airlines, freight forwarders, ground handlers and shippers among the organisations that rely on the DGR.