Career Newsletter – DGSA

A Career as a Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor

Transitioning to a role as a Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor (DGSA) could be an exciting shift in your career. Here are some common questions and answers that could help guide you through this process:

What is the role of a DGSA?

Dangerous Goods Safety Advisers (DGSAs) help prevent the risks involved in the carriage of dangerous goods. This includes risks to people, property and the environment.

The main role of a DGSA is to assess the risks of transporting dangerous goods and help prevent these risks for the organisation concerned.

Other responsibilities include:

• reporting incidents and accidents involving dangerous goods to the Department for Transport
• monitoring compliance with the legal requirements governing the carriage of dangerous goods
• providing advice on how to transport dangerous goods safely
• investigating any accidents or infringements of regulations and keeping records of them through reports
• monitoring the provision of training and advice to other staff
• completing annual audit reports on the performance of their business or organisation

What skills are essential for a DGSA?

Key skills include attention to detail, knowledge of transportation regulations, strong communication abilities, and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with logistics and risk management is also beneficial.

What does a DGSA do on a daily basis?

A DGSA ensures compliance with regulations regarding the transport of dangerous goods, conducts risk assessments, provides training, and communicates safety protocols to staff.

What qualifications do I need to become a DGSA?

Before appointment, DGSAs must gain a Vocational Training certificate (VTC) by passing approved examinations.  The Department for Transport is responsible for the approval of the examinations and it has appointed SQA as its agent.

How do a I gain the VTC?

To qualify as a DGSA you must undertake and successfully complete an examination in three subjects:

• Core
• All Classes
• One Mode paper – Road, Rail or Inland Waterways

Do I need to attend a course prior to sitting the exams?

No – it is not mandatory to attend a training course prior to taking the exams.   It is up to the individual and the employer to decide the form and type of training required, depending on the individual’s knowledge and experience.

For details of the format of the exams, click here DGSA Syllabus.

How often are the exams?

Exams are held quarterly – March, June, September & November.  Click here to see Exam Dates.  Exam locations are based Nationally however they can vary.  Click here to view the full list.

What are the pass rates?

A candidate will receive a result for each exam sitting, so the pass rates are based on the paper taken.  If a candidate is unsuccessful in any one of the three papers then they only need to resit the necessary one.  A DGSA qualification is issued when all 3 papers have been passed.  To find out more about the individual pass rates then click here to view DGSA Candidate pass rates

What industries employ DGSA’s?

DGSAs are needed in various industries, including transportation, manufacturing, healthcare, and environmental management. Any industry that handles dangerous goods may require a DGSA.

How can I gain experience in this field?

Networking with professionals in the field and joining relevant associations like BADGP can also provide valuable insights and opportunities.  Also, consider entry-level positions in logistics or safety management.

What are the career prospects for DGSAs?

The demand for DGSAs is expected to grow as regulations continue to become stricter. There are also opportunities for advancement into management or specialised roles in safety and compliance.

Whist DGSA is only applicable for road, rail and inland waterways, it is advantageous to have qualifications and knowledge of other forms of transport such as air and sea as often these modes are required when transporting to Europe and beyond.

If you have more specific questions or need advice on particular aspects of transitioning to a DGSA role, feel free to ask!

Course Dates

Course Title	Start Date	Duration
DGSA Training	Monday – 02.06.25	5 Days
DGSA Exam Preparation Day	Monday – 09.06.25	1 Day
DGSA Exam Day	Thursday – 12.06.25	1 Day
DGSA Training	Monday – 03.11.25	5 Days
DGSA Exam Preparation Day	Monday – 17.11.25	1 Day
DGSA Exam Day	Thursday – 20.11.25	1 Day

To reserve a place on a course call 0800 3283297 or email enquiries@specialisttraining.co.uk