What is a dangerous goods manual?

A dangerous goods manual is fundamentally important for compliance with regulations regarding the transportation of hazardous materials. It serves as a comprehensive guide that outlines the procedures, responsibilities, and safety measures necessary for handling dangerous goods in aviation. Compliance with this manual is a critical aspect of obtaining and maintaining an Air Operator Certificate (AOC), which is essential for any airline or operator legally allowed to conduct commercial air transport.

The manual includes specific guidelines for the identification, categorization, and handling of dangerous goods, ensuring that all staff—from flight crews to ground handling personnel—are aware of the protocols necessary to transport these materials safely, mitigating risks associated with their transport. This requirement aligns with international regulations such as those set forth by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), both of which emphasize the importance of having a robust framework in place to handle dangerous goods appropriately.

While operational safety and training resources are important, they do not capture the core reason for which a dangerous goods manual is implemented. It does not serve primarily as a certification document, nor is it solely a training resource limited to flight crews; rather, it is a crucial compliance document that ensures a comprehensive approach to safely managing hazardous materials in the aviation sector.