DG Compliance Series | Job Function 7.1
What Every Shipper Must Know About Their Dangerous Goods Responsibilities
In the world of Dangerous Goods, Job Function 7.1 sits right at the source of risk — and safety.
Job Function 7.1 applies to shippers, including manufacturers, exporters, laboratories, traders, and any organization that offers dangerous goods for transport by air.
If you prepare or offer DG for shipment, you are legally and operationally responsible for compliance — even if a freight forwarder or agent is involved.
What Is Job Function 7.1?
Under IATA CBTA, Job Function 7.1 covers personnel responsible for:
- Classifying dangerous goods
- Selecting proper shipping names and UN numbers
- Choosing compliant packaging
- Applying correct marking and labeling
- Preparing and signing the Shipper’s Declaration (when required)
In simple terms: 7.1 is about getting it right before the cargo leaves your premises.
What Shippers Must Know (Beyond the Basics)
As a shipper under Job Function 7.1, you must clearly understand:
1️⃣ Classification Is Your Responsibility
Misclassification — intentional or not — is one of the leading causes of DG incidents.
Relying on assumptions, old SDS versions, or “what we shipped last time” is not compliance.
2️⃣ Packaging Is Not Just a Box
Approved UN packaging, correct packing instructions, quantity limits, and inner packaging compatibility are all part of your responsibility.
3️⃣ Documentation Reflects Accountability
When you sign the Shipper’s Declaration, you are legally certifying that the shipment fully complies with the IATA DGR.
This signature cannot be delegated casually.
4️⃣ Training Is Function-Based, Not Generic
Job Function 7.1 training must match the actual tasks performed.
Generic DG awareness is not sufficient for personnel offering DG for air transport.
5️⃣ Outsourcing Does Not Remove Liability
Using a freight forwarder does not transfer responsibility.
If something goes wrong, regulators look first at the shipper.
Why 7.1 Compliance Matters
Many rejected shipments, delays, and penalties originate from errors made at the shipper level — long before cargo reaches the airline.
Strong Job Function 7.1 compliance:
- Reduces shipment rejections
- Builds credibility with forwarders and airlines
- Protects your organization from regulatory action
- Most importantly, enhances safety across the supply chain
🔍 Coming up in this DG Compliance Series:
Common 7.1 mistakes, real-life examples, and how shippers can build a practical DG compliance system.
If you are a shipper or exporter dealing with DG — this is not optional knowledge.
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