The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code sets the standard for the safe transport and handling of hazardous materials by sea. The IMDG Code facilitates the free and unrestricted movement of such goods while regulating safety measures for everyone involved in maritime transportation.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Main Principles of the IMDG Code
The IMDG Code regulates the sea transport of dangerous goods to protect people, ships and cargo. It also provides guidelines for the carriage of marine pollutants to preserve ocean ecosystems and sea life.
This regulatory reference contains a stringent set of guidelines designed to enhance the safe transport of dangerous goods and prevent pollution of the environment. Here is some of the information contained within its volumes.
Definitions and Classifications
The IMDG Code details the many dangerous cargoes that could be carried by sea, including solid, liquid and gaseous materials. The Code classifies hazardous goods and provides explicit information relating to products.
Grouping Dangerous Goods
Dangerous goods are ranked into one of three packing groups based on their level of danger — high, medium or low. Another section sorts hazardous materials into segregation groups to ensure incompatible materials, such as acids and alkalis, are kept separate.
Proper Packing
Some of the primary packing considerations in the IMDG include:
- The use of sturdy packaging material
- Weight and weight distribution standards
- Closure instructions
- Proper ventilation to prevent pressure buildup
Hazard Communication
The Code mandates the use of warning labels and other identifying marks so crew members can identify and classify dangerous goods for safe handling and stowage.
Stowage
Depending on the type of dangerous goods transported, the Code specifies where materials should be placed aboard a ship to ensure safe transport.
Dangerous Goods Declaration
Anyone who wants to ship dangerous goods by sea must fill out a Dangerous Goods Declaration (DGD) form. This standard documentation ensures that crews are conscious of any hazardous materials they transport.
Learn More About IMDG With Hazmat School
The IMDG Code requires proper training if you package, ship or handle hazardous materials to transport these by sea. The Hazmat School offers an online course that covers everything you or your employees need to know about the transportation of dangerous goods. Our IMDG training course reviews the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code in detail so that you can comply with its regulations.
Register for the IMDG course at Hazmat School and receive your certification immediately after completing the course.
Manages Hazmat School’s E-Learning courses and blog. Kirstie has extensive experience in the online training and education industry. Kirstie has worked with courses that offer a variety of safety and environmental certifications that satisfy OSHA, EPA and DOT requirements.
