Roles Needing Training for Radioactive Transport
The transport of radioactive materials involves high-stakes operations and strict compliance with Class 7 Dangerous Goods regulations. While it’s easy to assume that only shippers require training, the reality is that multiple parties are responsible for the safe and legal movement of radioactive cargo. Understanding who these stakeholders are—and their unique responsibilities—is essential to avoid costly errors, shipment delays, or even regulatory violations.
Logicom Hub’s Radioactive Materials by Air course is designed to provide essential awareness and role-specific guidance aligned with ICAO standards, using IATA’s Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR) as a practical reference.
Why Radioactive Awareness Training Matters
Transporting radioactive substances isn’t just about labeling and packaging. It includes managing exposure risks, interpreting documentation, following air safety protocols, understanding the Transport Index (TI), and preparing for emergency scenarios. Without proper training, even experienced staff can overlook critical steps in the process—putting people and property at risk.
Key Roles That Require Training
- Shippers & Consignors
These individuals are directly responsible for preparing the radioactive shipment. This includes classification, correct documentation, labeling, and packaging per Table 10.3.A of the IATA DGR, which outlines activity limits for various forms of radioactive material. Selecting the correct packaging type—such as Type A or Type B—depends on these values. Incorrect declarations or packaging errors can lead to shipment refusal. Certified training is a regulatory requirement for these roles. - Freight Forwarders & Ground Handling Agents
These team members act as gatekeepers. They check Shipper’s Declarations, apply handling labels, ensure overpack markings, and complete acceptance checklists. Errors in these tasks frequently delay shipments or trigger regulatory action. Logicom Hub’s course equips forwarders with the confidence to identify and prevent these issues. - Airline Staff & Flight Crew (NOTOC)
Flight crews and airline cargo planners must be trained to read and interpret the Notification to Captain (NOTOC) document. They need to understand the Transport Index (TI), which indicates radiation levels one meter from the surface of the package, and be able to plan safe stowage and separation. Awareness here is critical for the safety of crew and passengers alike. - Warehouse & Logistics Personnel
Warehouse handlers must apply safe handling techniques, monitor spacing from incompatible goods, and maintain appropriate storage conditions. For example, preventing exposure to undeveloped film or food items is a frequently overlooked detail covered in the course’s practical modules. - Regulatory & Compliance Officers
These professionals audit documentation, ensure correct UN numbers (e.g., UN2910, UN3332) are used, and validate training certificates. Their role is vital for maintaining operational authorization. Logicom Hub’s Module 8 addresses documentary accuracy and audit-readiness strategies in depth. - Radiation Safety Officers (RSOs)
RSOs oversee radiation protection across operations. They review packaging approvals, dose assessments, and incident protocols. Awareness training ensures they stay aligned with evolving international guidance and maintain effective cross-department safety alignment.
Training Validity & Certification
In accordance with ICAO standards (referenced in IATA DGR), radioactive transport training must be renewed every 24 months. Training records must be retained and readily accessible for audits or inspections. Completion of Logicom Hub’s Radioactive Materials by Air course includes a final assessment and a downloadable certificate as proof of compliance.
Prepare Your Team: Enroll Today
If any of your team members are involved in the transport of radioactive materials, they need proper awareness training. We recommend beginning with the Radioactive Awareness Course to build a solid foundation before advancing to the air transport-specific training. Logicom Hub’s scenario-based approach covers everything from TI calculations and documentation requirements to understanding the NOTOC process—preparing your team to operate with full regulatory compliance and safety confidence
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Ready to start? Enroll in the Radioactive Materials by Air Course