An Introduction to the IMDG Code An Introduction to the IMDG Code

© Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009 © Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009

Welcome to this free The objective of the International Maritime Dangerous

introduction to the IMDG Goods (IMDG) Code is to:
Code from Exis Technologies.
• Enhance the safe transport of dangerous goods

It should be read with • Protect the marine environment

reference to a printed or CD
copy of the IMDG Code. • Facilitate the free unrestricted movement of dangerous
goods

Where applicable, screens

are referenced to the
relevant IMDG Code clause.

1 2

The International Legal Framework The International Legal Framework

© Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009 © Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) To supplement the principles laid down in the SOLAS and
MARPOL Conventions, the IMO developed the International
The IMO is a United Nations specialised agency which has Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code.
developed international legislation dealing with two key
issues for the maritime industry: The IMDG code contains detailed technical specifications to
• The safety of life at sea enable dangerous goods to be transported safely by sea.

• Prevention of pollution from ships

The IMDG Code became mandatory for adoption by SOLAS
signatory states from 1st January 2004.
The IMO has developed two international conventions to
address these issues:

• The SOLAS Convention (covering safety of life at sea)

• The MARPOL Convention (covering pollution
prevention)

IMDG Code reference: 1.1.2 3 IMDG Code reference: 1.1.1 4

Principles of the IMDG Code Principles of the IMDG Code
© Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009 © Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009

The IMDG Code is based on an internationally agreed

system which: Updating the IMDG Code
• Groups dangerous goods together based on the hazards they
The IMDG Code is evolving and is updated every two years to
present in transport (classification).
take account of:
• Contains the dangerous goods in packagings/tanks which are of
appropriate strength and which will prevent the goods escaping. • New dangerous goods which have to be included.
• Uses hazard warning labels and other identifying marks to identify
dangerous goods in transport. • New technology and methods of working with or handling
dangerous goods.
• Requires standard documentation to be provided when
dangerous goods are being transported.
• Safety concerns which arise as a result of experience.
• Lays down principles for ensuring that dangerous goods which will
react dangerously together are kept apart.
• Lays down principles for where to place dangerous goods on
board ship to ensure safe transport.
Continued…
• Provides emergency response advice for dangerous goods
involved in a fire or spillage on board ship.
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Principles of the IMDG Code Principles of the IMDG Code

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Updating the IMDG Code Updating the IMDG Code

Each version of the Code is given an Amendment The Amendment Cycle of the IMDG Code
number to signify how many times it has been updated. This • Each Amendment is valid for
number appears at the bottom of each page together with two years.
the year of the Amendment. • There are alternating years for
implementation.
The current Amendment is 33-06 which is valid until 31st • In January of the yellow years,
December 2009. a new Amendment is published
and can be used immediately,
However, from 1st January 2009 Amendment 34-08 can also subject to the timing of National
Competent Authority adoption.
be used because 2009 is a transition year which allows the
use of both Amendments in tandem. • During the yellow years, the
preceding Amendment can also
be used, so it is a transition year.
For full details and a tour of Amendment 34-08 please see
• In the green years, only the
www.imdgsupport.com current Amendment may be
used.
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Principles of the IMDG Code Layout of the IMDG Code
© Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009 © Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009

Updating the IMDG Code • The Code comprises 7 parts.

Although the Code is updated every two years, the basic • It is presented in two books; Volume 1 and Volume 2.
structure remains constant and once you have understood it
you will be able to easily locate information in the future • It is necessary to use both books to obtain the required
Amendment. information when shipping dangerous goods by sea.

• The Code also contains a Supplement.

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Layout of the IMDG Code Layout of the IMDG Code

© Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009 © Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009

Volume 1 (Parts 1-2 & 4-7 of the Code) comprises: Volume 2 (Part 3 and the Appendices of the Code)
comprises:
Part 1 General provisions, definitions and training
Part 3 Dangerous Goods List (DGL) and Limited
Part 2 Classifications
Quantities Exceptions
Part 4 Packing and tank provisions
The DGL is the central core of the IMDG
Part 5 Consignment procedures
Code and presents information on transport
Part 6 Construction and Testing of Packagings, requirements in a coded form
Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs), Large
Packagings, Portable Tanks, Multi-Element Gas Appendix A List of Generic and N.O.S. (Not Otherwise
Containers (MEGCs) and Road Tank Vehicles Specified) Proper Shipping Names
Part 7 Requirements concerning transport operations Appendix B Glossary of terms

Alphabetical Index

11 12
Layout of the IMDG Code Supplement IMDG Code Classification System
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The supplement contains the following texts related to The purpose of the IMDG Code’s classification system
the Code: is:

• Emergency Response Procedures for Ships Carrying • To distinguish between goods which are considered
Dangerous Goods to be dangerous for transport and those which are
not.
• Medical First Aid Guide
• Reporting Procedures • To identify the dangers which are presented by
dangerous goods in transport.
• IMO/ILO/ECE Guidelines for Packing Cargo Transport
Units • To ensure that the correct measure are taken to
• Safe Use of Pesticides in Ships enable these goods to be transported safely without
risk to persons or property (both within the port and
• International Code for the Carriage of Packaged on the ship).
Irradiated Nuclear Fuel, Plutonium and High-Level
Radioactive Wastes on Board Ships

13 IMDG Code reference: 2.0 14

IMDG Code Classification System IMDG Code Classification System

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Dangerous goods are classified into 9 classes The 9 classes:

according to properties. The way in which different
classes of dangerous goods are handled in transport Class 1 Explosives
will depend upon these properties and hazards, for Class 2 Gases
example: Class 3 Flammable liquids
Class 4 Flammable solids
• The type of packaging that can be used.
Class 5 Oxidizing substances and organic peroxides
• What classes of dangerous goods can be transported Class 6 Toxic and infectious substances
together in freight containers.
Class 7 Radioactive material
• Where the goods can be stored within the port and on the Class 8 Corrosive substances
ship. Class 9 Miscellaneous dangerous substances and
articles
Continued… Continued…

IMDG Code reference: 2.0 15 IMDG Code reference: 2.0 16

IMDG Code Classification System
© Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009
Identification of Dangerous Goods
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The 9 hazard classes have been established internationally The hazard presented by each class is identified by an
by a United Nations (UN) committee to ensure that all modes internationally accepted hazard warning label (diamond).
of transport (road, rail, air and sea) classify dangerous goods This appears on the outer packaging of the dangerous goods
in the same way. when they are being transported as a warning to all those
working within the transport chain or coming into contact with
By testing the dangerous goods according to UN test them.
procedures, a shipper is able to classify dangerous goods
according to the 9 hazard classes. These hazard warning labels are pictured inside the front
cover of Volume 1 of the IMDG Code.

IMDG Code reference: 2.0 17 IMDG Code reference: 5.2.2.2.2 18

Identification of Dangerous Goods Identification of Dangerous Goods

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by PSN and UN Number by PSN and UN Number

Within each of the 9 hazard classes dangerous goods Together the UN Number and PSN uniquely identify
are uniquely identified by two pieces of information: dangerous goods to:

• A four-digit number known as the UN Number which is • enable rapid and precise identification during transport to
preceded by the letters UN. ensure the correct handling, stowage, segregation etc,
and
• The corresponding Proper Shipping Name (PSN).
• in the event of an emergency, ensure that the correct
For example, kerosene is identified in the IMDG Code by its procedures are followed.
UN Number UN 1223 and the PSN Kerosene.

Continued…

IMDG Code reference: 2.0.2 19 IMDG Code reference: 2.0.2 20

Using UN Numbers Using Proper Shipping Names (PSNs)
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Using a four-digit number to identify dangerous goods • The PSN must be used for transport purposes on
enhances safety by: documentation/labelling etc.

• No alternatives or variations are permitted unless

• Overcoming language barriers
specifically stated.
- the four-digit number is easily understood in all languages
• The PSN is that part of the name which appears in the
• Avoiding confusing similar names
Dangerous Goods List or the Alphabetical Index in capital
- e.g. TITANIUM POWDER, WETTED UN 1352 which is a
letters only.
flammable solid in class 4.1 and has very different transport
requirements to TITANIUM POWDER, DRY UN 2546 which is
• Any text in lower case is only descriptive and is not part of
spontaneously combustible in class 4.2.
the PSN.

IMDG Code reference: 2.0.2 21 IMDG Code reference: 2.0.2 22

Understanding the Dangerous Goods List (DGL) Understanding the Dangerous Goods List (DGL)
© Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009 © Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009

• The DGL is presented across 2 pages of the IMDG Code and Column 1 – UN Number
is divided into 18 columns for each individual dangerous Contains the United Nations Number assigned by the United Nations
good listed. Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods (UN List).
Column 2 – Proper Shipping Name (PSN)
• Much of the information contained in the DGL is coded to
Contains the Proper Shipping Names in upper case characters which
make it easier to present in a table. may have to be followed by additional descriptive text in lower-case
• The DGL is arranged in UN Number order; column 1 and characters.
column 18 contains the UN Number. Column 3 – Class or Division
Contains the class and, in the case of class 1, the division and
• To look up an entry, you just need the UN Number. compatibility group.
• Dangerous goods can also be searched using the PSN.
• Therefore, if you do not have the UN Number but have the
PSN, you can find its associated UN Number by looking at
the alphabetical index at the back of Volume 2.

Continued…

IMDG Code reference: 3.0 23 IMDG Code reference: 3.0 24

Understanding the Dangerous Goods List (DGL) Understanding the Dangerous Goods List (DGL)
© Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009 © Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009

Column 4 – Subsidiary Risk(s) Column 8 – Packing Instructions

Contains the class number(s) of any subsidiary risk(s). This column Contains packing instructions for the transport of substances and
also identifies a dangerous goods as a marine pollutant or a severe articles.
marine pollutant as follows:
P Marine pollutant Column 9 – Special Packing Provisions
PP Severe marine pollutant Contains special packing provisions.
● Marine pollutant only when containing 10% or more Column 10 – IBC Packing Instructions
substance(s) identified with ‘P’ or 1% or more substance(s) Contains IBC instructions which indicate the type of IBC that can be
identified with ‘PP’ in this column or in the Index. used for the transport. A code including the letters ‘IBC’ refers to
Column 5 – Packing Group packing instructions for the use of IBCs described in chapter 6.5.
Contains the packing group number (i.e. I, II or III) where assigned to Column 11 – IBC Special Provisions
the substance or article. Refers to special packing provisions applicable to the use of packing
Column 6 – Special Provisions instructions bearing the code ‘IBC’ in 4.1.4.2.
Contains a number referring to any special provision(s) indicated in Column 12 – IMO Tank Instructions
chapter 3.3. This column only applies to IMO portable tanks and road tank
Column 7 – Limited Quantities vehicles.
Provides the maximum quantity per inner packaging. Continued… Continued…

IMDG Code reference: 3.0 25 IMDG Code reference: 3.0 26

Understanding the Dangerous Goods List (DGL) Understanding the Dangerous Goods List (DGL)
© Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009 © Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009

Column 13 – UN Tank and Bulk Container Instructions Column 17 – Properties and Observations
Contains T codes (see 4.2.5.2.6) applicable to the transport of Contains properties and observations on the dangerous goods listed.
dangerous goods in portable tanks and road tank vehicles.
Column 18 – UN Number
Column 14 – Tank Special Provisions Contains the United Nations Number assigned to a dangerous good
Contains TP notes (see 4.2.5.3) applicable to the transport of by the United Nations Committee of Experts on the Transport of
dangerous goods in portable tanks and road road tank vehicles. The Dangerous Goods (UN List).
TP notes specified in this column apply to the portable tanks specified
in both columns 12 and 13.
Column 15 – EmS
Refers to the relevant emergency schedules for FIRE and SPILLAGE in
‘The EmS Guide – Emergency Response Procedures for Ships Carrying
Dangerous Goods’.

Column 16 – Stowage and Segregation

Contains the stowage and segregation provisions as prescribed in
part 7.
Continued…

IMDG Code reference: 3.0 27 IMDG Code reference: 3.0 28

Training Requirements Training Requirements
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These training requirements highlight the need for all shore-based

In the 2002 edition of the IMDG Code, training was introduced personnel involved in the shipment of dangerous goods to receive
for the first time. training commensurate with their responsibilities. The IMDG Code
defines shore-based personnel as those who:
The training requirements have become mandatory starting • classify dangerous goods and identify PSNs
with Amendment 34-08. The IMO Member Governments • pack dangerous goods in packages
recognised that the safe transport of dangerous goods by sea • mark, label or placard dangerous goods
is dependent upon the appreciation, by all persons involved, • pack/unpack containers
• prepare transport documents
of the risks involved and on a detailed understanding of the • offer dangerous goods for transport
IMDG Code requirements. • accept dangerous goods for transport
• handle dangerous goods in transport
For this reason, properly planned and maintained initial and • prepare dangerous goods loading/stowage plans
re-training programmes for all persons concerned with the • load/unload dangerous goods in transport
transport of dangerous goods are recommended. • carry dangerous goods in transport
• enforce, survey or inspect for compliance with applicable rules
and regulations

Continued…

IMDG Code reference: 1.3 29 IMDG Code reference: 1.3 30

IMDG Code e-learning

© Copyright Exis Technologies 2006-2009

Exis Technologies have developed an interactive computer

based e-learning course. Designed primarily for shore-based
personnel, it allows the user to select training relevant to their
specific job functions and meets the requirements of section
1.3.1.5 of the Code.

Further details on the course and a free demo are available at

www.imdge-learning.com

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