Provision of Information
It is the responsibility of the Operator to notify the following people as to the type and location of dangerous goods:
- Pilot-in-Command (PIC)
- Passengers
- Operator's employees
Let's take a closer look at how this can be achieved.
Pilot-in-Command
The pilot-in-command must be informed of dangerous goods when loaded onto their aircraft. To achieve this, the pilot-in-command is informed by the “Special Load Notification to Captain”. It is also sometimes referred to as the NOTOC.
When a pilot-in-command takes over a transit aircraft, a notification for all the dangerous goods loaded at previous airports, and which remain onboard the aircraft, must be readily available.
Generally, the cargo department is responsible for completion of the required information documented on the NOTOC, with the exception of the loading position. The loading position should be completed by the Load Planner/Controller before being delivered to the pilot-in-command before departure.
A legible copy of the NOTOC must be retained on the ground. The copy must have an indication on it, or with it, that the pilot-in-command has received the information.
If an in-flight emergency occurs, the pilot in command should refer to the NOTOC for specific information and emergency procedures that may apply. If the situation permits, the pilot in command should inform the appropriate air traffic services and inform them of the dangerous goods being carried.
Some dangerous goods are not required to appear on the NOTOC which are listed below:
Passengers
Passengers and crew must be made aware that it is an offence to carry or consign for carriage any undeclared dangerous goods. The minimum information given must consist of:
- Information with the passenger ticket or in another manner such that prior to or during check-in process, the passenger receives dangerous goods information.
- Notices displayed in areas where passengers receive tickets, check in, board aircraft and claim their baggage.
Check-in staff should always be aware of hidden dangerous goods and ask the passenger questions specific to the type of person travelling. Some things might be very innocent-looking but could contain dangerous goods. For example, a tradesman's toolbox might contain compressed gases or batteries; a backpacker's camping equipment might have flammable liquid fuel or fire starters. There are far too many examples to list here.
If in doubt, do not Accept!!!
Signage
Operators must ensure that sufficient notices, giving information about the transport of dangerous goods, are prominently displayed in the following areas:
- Cargo acceptance areas
- Where tickets are being issued
- Passenger check-in areas
- Aircraft boarding areas
- Baggage claim areas
These notices must include visual examples of dangerous goods forbidden from transport aboard an aircraft.
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Operators’ Employees
The operator must ensure that all employees have appropriate training to enable them to carry out their responsibility in regard to dangerous goods. This online course is one of the ways that they achieve this important objective.
