As new products develop, professionals must follow guidelines to keep people and businesses safe while transporting goods. The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code sets the standards for preparing, handling and shipping hazardous materials overseas. Learn the organization’s history to understand how it impacts your business operations today.
History of the Code
The Code’s development dates back to 1960 when the International Maritime Organization (IMO) started focusing on international maritime traffic. During a Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Conference, industry professionals discussed the need for governments to adopt a uniform code for transporting hazardous materials by sea. In 1965, SOLAS introduced the Code to improve the maritime transport of hazardous materials in packaged forms and prevent environmental pollution. The recommendations provided detailed instructions for packing, container traffic, sewage and separation of incompatible substances.
Today, several organizations govern the transportation of hazardous materials. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the IMO are the main organizations responsible for overseeing and enforcing mandatory shipping codes and ordinances. The guidelines help keep crews, cargo, transport vessels and the ocean safe.
How Often Do the Rules Change?
Since its introduction, the IMDG Code has changed several times to keep up with industry updates. Changes are made to the Code on a standard cycle every two years. The Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) has the authority to adopt amendments on its own as long as the amendments don’t affect the basic principles of the Code.
Government members must submit proposals directly to the IMO to request an amendment. The IMO considers the proposals while considering UN recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, which still sets the basic requirements for all modes of transportation.
How Do I Stay Informed About the Regulations?
An IMDG certification is needed for various professionals who handle hazardous materials overseas, including port personnel, shipping clerks, shippers, freight forwarders, cargo handlers, dockworkers and longshore workers.
To become certified, professionals must pass a course covering the following:
- Classifications of hazardous materials
- Selecting proper shipping names
- Labeling, marking and packaging
- Loading and unloading the cargo
- Preparing or signing documents
Because the Code continues to change, professionals in the maritime transportation industry must renew their certification every three years.
Learn More Information From Hazmat School
If you’re thinking of becoming IMDG certified or need to refresh your certification, take the online courses available at Hazmat School. Our company has provided safety and compliance training for over 30 years and serves over 20,000 students annually.
Register for a program or contact us to get started.
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.
