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AVSEC vs DGR Training — What's the Difference?
Last updated: 8 Jul 2026Reviewed by Ms. Rubab Nizami, Lead AVSEC Faculty
In short
AVSEC training is about security — preventing deliberate threats like weapons and bombs. DGR (Dangerous Goods Regulations) training is about safety — carrying hazardous materials correctly. Security staff need AVSEC; cargo staff often need both.
AVSEC training vs DGR training — side by side
| AVSEC training | DGR training | |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Security (deliberate threats) | Safety (hazardous materials) |
| Governs | Screening, access control | Hazardous cargo handling |
| Framework | ICAO Annex 17, BCAS | ICAO Technical Instructions, IATA DGR |
| Who needs it | Screeners, security officers | Cargo, ground handling, shippers |
Which should you use?
If your job is stopping threats, do AVSEC. If your job is shipping hazardous goods safely, do DGR. Cargo-security roles often need both.
Quick answers
Is DGR part of AVSEC?
No — they are separate: AVSEC is security, DGR is dangerous-goods safety. They overlap in cargo work, where staff may need both.