For most employees, being a DGSA isn’t their primary job. They’re often chemists, warehouse or transport managers, or safety professionals. A few companies need a full-time DGSA — but that’s the exception, not the rule.
So, what exactly are the responsibilities of a DGSA? And where do they start and end?
If you’re a learner preparing for the DGSA exams, ADR 1.8.3 is essential reading. There’s always a question about this in the exam — and if you pass, you may end up fulfilling this role in your workplace.
If you’re an employer (or contracting a consultant), this info can help define the role profile or service agreement.
📋 Summary of DGSA responsibilities (ADR 1.8.3.3)
- Monitor compliance with the regulations on the carriage of dangerous goods
- Advise the company on dangerous goods matters
- Prepare an annual report on dangerous goods activities (retained for 5 years)
🔍 Monitoring duties
These are not tasks the DGSA performs directly — but areas they must oversee to ensure the business has adequate systems in place. Depending on the size and structure of the company, some may not apply.
- Identification of dangerous goods
- Transport vehicle suitability
- Condition of equipment used in loading/unloading/transport
- Employee training and update tracking
- Emergency procedures for incidents and accidents
- Accident investigation and reporting
- Preventive measures to stop repeat incidents
- Sub-contractor compliance
- Operational procedures for staff
- Risk awareness across relevant teams
- Document and equipment checks
- Regulatory compliance in packing/loading/unloading
- Security plan under ADR 1.10.3.2
🎓 Why training matters
Quality training makes all the difference — not just for passing the exam, but for doing the job well. A strong programme builds the technical foundation, regulatory confidence, and structured thinking needed to support safe, compliant operations.
That said, don’t ask a barber if you need a haircut. If you’d prefer an independent view, the official DGSA guidance on Gov.uk is a good place to start.
👉 Ready to train? View our course options with up-to-date dates, prices, and availability here.