Dangerous Goods

Term from Courier Services industry explained for recruiters

Dangerous Goods refers to items that could be harmful during shipping and transportation, like chemicals, batteries, or flammable materials. People working with Dangerous Goods know how to safely handle, pack, and transport these items following strict safety rules. They ensure that hazardous materials are properly labeled, documented, and transported according to local and international regulations. This term is also known as "hazardous materials" or "hazmat" in some regions, especially in North America.

Examples in Resumes

Certified in Dangerous Goods handling and transportation according to IATA regulations

Managed Dangerous Goods documentation and compliance for international shipments

Trained warehouse staff in Hazardous Materials and Dangerous Goods handling procedures

Oversaw DG operations and safety protocols for air freight division

Typical job title: "Dangerous Goods Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Dangerous Goods Coordinator HAZMAT Specialist DG Safety Advisor Dangerous Goods Compliance Officer Hazardous Materials Manager DG Operations Specialist Safety Compliance Coordinator

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a situation where you discover non-compliant dangerous goods packaging in a shipment ready to leave?

Expected Answer: A senior professional should explain the immediate steps to quarantine the shipment, documentation process, corrective actions needed, and how to prevent such incidents in the future. They should also mention stakeholder communication and regulatory reporting requirements.

Q: How do you stay current with changing dangerous goods regulations?

Expected Answer: Should discuss various information sources like IATA/IMDG updates, professional memberships, training programs, and how they implement changes in their organization's procedures.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What documentation is required for dangerous goods shipments?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain shipper's declaration, safety data sheets, emergency response information, and various certificates required for different types of dangerous goods.

Q: Explain the different dangerous goods classes and their basic handling requirements.

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of the 9 hazard classes, basic handling requirements for each, and common examples of items in each class.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic safety procedures when handling dangerous goods?

Expected Answer: Should mention personal protective equipment (PPE), reading labels and documentation, following handling instructions, and emergency response basics.

Q: What does DG mean and why is proper labeling important?

Expected Answer: Should explain that DG stands for Dangerous Goods and discuss the importance of correct labeling for safety, compliance, and proper handling throughout the supply chain.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic dangerous goods classification knowledge
  • Understanding of safety procedures
  • Familiarity with shipping documentation
  • Basic regulatory awareness

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Detailed knowledge of regulations
  • Emergency response procedures
  • Training delivery capability
  • Risk assessment skills

Senior (5+ years)

  • Program development and implementation
  • Audit and compliance management
  • Emergency response coordination
  • Staff training and development

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No formal dangerous goods certification
  • Lack of knowledge about basic safety procedures
  • Unable to explain documentation requirements
  • No understanding of emergency response procedures
  • Unfamiliarity with current regulations