What is the IMDG Code? A Guide to the Carriage of Dangerous Goods

The concept of a dangerous goods code was initiated following the recommendations of the United Nations Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, in cooperation with the IMO (International Maritime Organization). This UN proposal was presented as a report in 1956, which led to the development of the IMO IMDG Code starting in 1961.

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code was officially adopted in 1965 in accordance with the 1960 SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) Convention under the IMO. Over time, certain provisions from the MARPOL Convention were also integrated into the IMDG Code to cover marine pollutants. The IMDG regulations are updated periodically. For example, the 2018 edition became mandatory in 2020, while the 2020 edition entered into force on June 1, 2022, following a five-month delay caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Amendments to the IMDG Code

Since maritime transport undergoes constant evolution, it is crucial that the Code reflects these changes. This is why the IMDG Code is continually amended. Amendments are proposed every two years, and they are generally adopted two years after the initial proposal by relevant authorities.

The amendment process works as follows:

IMO member states submit the necessary proposals.
The UN Committee of Experts reviews these proposals and decides which ones require immediate attention in the upcoming amendment cycle.

Objectives of the IMDG Code

The primary objective of the IMDG Code is to ensure the safe transport of dangerous goods and to prevent all forms of marine pollution, while allowing the free and unrestricted movement of such goods worldwide.

The IMDG Code serves as a unified international standard for the maritime transport of hazardous materials. It covers packaging, container traffic, and stowage, with a special emphasis on the segregation of incompatible substances. The Code consists of two main volumes and an additional Supplement that deals with fire and spill emergency procedures (EmS).

The IMDG Code ensures that hazardous goods transported via sea routes are packaged properly for safe transit. As a unified code, its rules apply to all cargo vessels across the globe.

Dangerous Goods Classification

Dangerous goods are materials essential for manufacturing products like electronics, automobiles, batteries, and pharmaceuticals. They are in high demand and represent a significant portion of global trade.

The transportation of dangerous goods is highly complex. To avoid complications and easily identify hazard levels, the IMDG Code established a strict classification system consisting of nine classes. Hazard labels and Dangerous Goods Declarations are issued based on these nine classes:

Class 1: Explosives. This class contains six sub-divisions for materials presenting varying degrees of explosion hazards, ranging from high explosion risks to minor hazards like fireworks.
Class 2: Gases. This class includes three sub-categories: flammable gases, non-flammable/non-toxic gases, and toxic gases.
Class 3: Flammable Liquids. This class has no sub-divisions.
Class 4: Flammable Solids. Divided into three sub-categories: flammable solids, self-reactive substances, and substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases.
Class 5: Oxidizing Substances and Organic Peroxides. Materials that can yield oxygen and stimulate combustion.
Class 6: Toxic and Infectious Substances. Materials that are liable to cause death, serious injury, or harm to human health.
Class 7: Radioactive Material.
Class 8: Corrosive Substances. Materials that cause severe damage when in contact with living tissue or other cargo.
Class 9: Miscellaneous Dangerous Substances and Articles. Substances that present a danger not covered by other classes, such as internal combustion engines, dry ice, lithium batteries, etc.

The IMDG Code for Seafarers

All crew members working on a vessel who are directly involved with dangerous goods must undergo specific IMDG training based on STCW requirements and IMO guidelines. Numerous shore-based training centers offer Hazmat certification courses for handling IMDG cargo.

Here are the key responsibilities a seafarer must understand according to the IMDG Code:

Proper segregation of dangerous goods and the determination of the Proper Shipping Name (PSN).
Knowledge of how specific IMDG cargo must be packaged.
Understanding the various types of marking, labels, and placards used to identify different hazards.
Awareness of the hazards associated with the cargo and safe practices for loading/unloading cargo transport units (CTUs).
Familiarity with transport documentation required for the carriage of dangerous goods.
How to handle and monitor dangerous goods while the vessel is in transit.
Knowing the best containment and fire-fighting procedures for the specific cargo on board (The cargo plan must include the EmS – Emergency Response Procedures).
Preparing load and stowage plans that account for vessel stability, overall safety, and emergency preparedness.
Understanding the importance of accurately declaring dangerous goods to Port Authorities and for inland transit purposes.

Currently, the IMDG Code is implemented by approximately 150 countries worldwide, with about 98% of merchant ships complying with its requirements. This highlights the Code’s vital role in protecting both human life and the marine environment.

Frequently Asked Questions about the IMDG Code

1. What is the IMDG Code? The IMDG Code was developed to ensure the safe maritime transport of packaged dangerous goods, prevent the loss of life and property at sea, and protect the marine environment from pollution.

2. What does the IMDG Code contain? It is divided into several parts. Key sections include general provisions, definitions, and training requirements (Part 1); detailed classification of goods (Part 2); packing and tank provisions (Part 4); and consignment procedures (Part 5).

3. What is the purpose of IMDG classification? The classification ensures consistency between UN Recommendations, the IMDG Code, and other transport regulations. It improves usability, ensures regulatory compliance, and guarantees the safe handling of packaged dangerous goods.

4. What is IMDG certification? IMDG certification allows individuals to legally handle and transport dangerous goods internationally by sea. This certification is typically valid for three years, after which a refresher course is required.

5. What is a Proper Shipping Name (PSN)? The Proper Shipping Name is the standard, globally recognized name used to identify dangerous goods. It acts as a “key” to determine how the cargo should be packed, labeled, and documented on the Dangerous Goods Declaration.