Welcome to this week’s 5 of 6 installment of the DG Journal! Today we will explore the 16 key components of the IATA Shipping by Air Limited Quantities (otherwise known as LQ) process. The guide below is full of helpful information you will need to correctly prepare dangerous goods shipments for shipping by air as LQ. Feel free to keep this guide handy, and even use it as a reference while on the job. Our regulatory compliance professionals recommend you follow this process, along with the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations, to ensure that all of the applicable requirements for classification, identification, marking, labeling, packaging, and documentation are met.
Please note: This guidance is NOT meant to replace the regulations. Be sure to check regulatory references to determine the rules and if they affect your shipment as the regulations change often.
16 Steps for IATA Shipping by Air Limited Quantities (LQ) Process Best Practices
- Determine if the substance is CLASSIFIED as a dangerous good in transportation. Most shippers will use section 14 on the material’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS). If the material is a dangerous good, the proper shipping name and UN number most likely will be found there. It may also be provided in the manufacture’s shipping department.
- If the information is not listed on an SDS or in the shipping system, the hazard class/division must be determined by comparing the physical characteristics of the materials with the classification criteria found in IATA Section 3.
- If the information on the physical characteristics of the material is not available, testing must be performed to determine the hazard class(es).
- This section may also provide information about whether the material is a HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE. Check 49 CFR 172.101 Appendix A to see if the material or its components are listed. If the material is being shipped at a quantity equal or above the listed RQ, the material is a hazardous substance and must be identified as such on the package and shipping document. (IATA USG-04)
- Check the List of Dangerous Goods (IATA 4.2, Column A and B) for the UN NUMBER and PROPER SHIPPING NAME listed in bold type. This is the name used to identify the material on the package and the Shipper’s Declaration for Dangerous Goods. If there is an “asterisk” following the proper shipping name, the technical name must be shown in parenthesis with the proper shipping name. (IATA 4.1.6)
- If only the UN number for the material is provided, use the Numerical “Cross-Reference” List of Dangerous Goods (IATA 4.3) to find the proper shipping name, then look up the proper shipping name in the List of Dangerous Goods.
- Note the PRIMARY AND SUBSIDIARY HAZARD CLASSES/DIVISIONS (Column C) and PACKING GROUP (Column E) of the material. If more than one packing group is listed, check the SDS to determine which packing group to apply.
- Determine if the material is permitted to be transported as a LIMITED QUANTITY.
- Look at Columns G and H. If the word “FORBIDDEN” appears in the column, the material must not be shipped as a limited quantity.
- If the material is not forbidden for transport as a limited quantity, determine the PACKAGE LIMITS in Column H and the Packing Instruction for limited quantities.
- Note the PACKING INSTRUCTION number in Column G. Packing instructions for limited quantities always begin with the letter “Y”.
- Read all SPECIAL PROVISIONS listed in Column M. Special provisions are found in IATA 4.4.
- Ensure the packaging complies with the limited quantity provisions of 2.7.5, the general packing provisions of 5.0.2 to 5.0.4, and the specific provisions found in the packing instruction.
- Check STATE AND OPERATOR VARIATIONS for any additional requirements or limitations.
- Prepare the PACKAGING following the packing instruction. Make sure the package weighs 30 kg Gross or less.
- MARK AND LABEL the package as required. Don’t forget to mark the package with the limited quantity marking for air (“Y” marking). (IATA List of Dangerous Goods and Section 7)
- If preparing an OVERPACK, make sure to:
- Check Table 9.3.A for segregation requirements,
- Duplicate all labels and markings on the outside of the overpack,
- Mark the outside of the overpack with the OVERPACK marking, and
- Add the overpack identification mark if required.
- Complete the SHIPPER’S DECLARATION FOR DANGEROUS GOODS. (IATA Section 8)
- Provide appropriate EMERGENCY RESPONSE INFORMATION. (IATA 8.1.6.11 and USG-12 although not required, Carrier might require the number regardless)
- RECOMMENDED: Complete the ACCEPTANCE CHECKLIST found in the back of the IATA regulations to verify you have not missed anything.
Shipping Hazardous Materials by Air in Limited Quantities – Key Regulatory Exemptions
Shipping hazardous materials by air in limited quantities involves stringent regulatory compliance requirements due to the unique risks associated with air transport. The regulatory requirements for shipping hazardous materials by air are set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
In contrast to shipping hazardous materials in limited quantities by ground or by vessel, the regulations for shipping by air are more stringent. The increased stringency is due to the higher risk factors associated with air transport, such as:
Rapid Transit: The quick movement of air transport necessitates rigorous safety measures to address potential emergencies swiftly.
Altitude and Pressure: Airborne conditions can affect the stability and integrity of hazardous material packages, which necessitates enhanced packaging and handling procedures.
The key regulatory exemptions for shipping hazardous materials in limited quantities by air include:
Packaging
UN Specification packaging is not required for shipping hazardous materials in limited quantities by air. At the same time, there are specific packaging standards that you need to adhere to. The packaging must be a combination packaging that meets the criteria for drop and stack tests as outlined in section 2.7.6. Stemming from this, inner pressure and closure requirements are also applicable to the packaging to ensure the safety and integrity of the hazardous materials during transit.
Shipper’s Declaration
One of the most important differences between shipping hazardous materials in limited quantities by ground and by air is the requirement of a shipper’s declaration. Hazmat shipping in limited quantities by ground does not require a shipper’s declaration, whereas it is required for shipping by air. Apart from this, the declaration must include a “Y” in the Packing Instruction column to indicate compliance with air transport regulations.
Marks and Labels
All necessary marks and labels must be present on the shipment. This includes all hazard labels, addresses, net weights, and other pertinent information. The Limited Quantity marking must feature a “Y” in the center, which is a key distinction from ground shipments where such specific labeling may not be required. This ensures that the shipment is properly identified and handled according to air transport regulations.
Importance of Hazmat Training for Employees Involved in Shipping Hazardous Materials in Limited Quantities by Air
Hazmat training is absolutely essential for employees involved in the shipping of hazardous materials by air in any capacity. Regular training can equip employees with the knowledge and skills needed to handle all aspects of their job safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all the required regulations.
Employees must be properly trained: to:
- Understand the specific regulations and requirements for air transport of limited quantities.
- Recognize and implement the necessary packaging and labeling standards.
- Prepare and verify all required documentation to avoid delays and potential penalties.
Proper training can make sure that employees are not only compliant with regulatory requirements, but also proficient in managing the inherent risks associated with air transport of hazardous materials. This comprehensive approach can help maintain safety, prevent incidents, and promote efficient handling of hazardous and dangerous goods by air,, safeguarding both the transport process and public safety.
Hazmat University’s Limited Quantities by Air Online Training Course
Hazmat University’s online training course for the transport of hazardous materials in limited quantities by air is designed to provide initial and recurrent training for hazmat employees. It can be taken as a standalone course for hazmat shipping in limited quantities or as a supplement to broader hazmat training by air.
It is based on Title 49 of the US Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Technical Instructions as outlined in the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations (IATA DGR). It fulfills training requirements of 49 CFR Part 172, Subpart H, Section 172.704 and IATA DGR.
You can access our online hazmat training courses anytime and learn from any location at your convenience. The self-paced nature of the training ensures that you can complete the course at your own speed, accommodating your busy schedules.
The course provides a highly interactive environment, featuring dynamic content to engage you effectively. Moreover, it keeps you updated with the latest industry regulations and changes. Upon completion, you can receive your certification instantly, validating your expertise and compliance with training requirements.
Originally Posted: November 30, 2021 | Updated: December 20, 2024
