INTERNATIONAL SAFETY PANEL BRIEFING PAMPHLET NO 3

THE INTERNATIONAL MARITIME

DANGEROUS GOODS (IMDG) CODE

ICHCA INTERNATIONAL PREMIUM MEMBERS:

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet #3

ICHCA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED is an independent, non-political,

international membership organisation and is dedicated to the promotion of
safety and efficiency in the handling and movement of goods by all modes
and during all phases of both the national and international supply chains.
Originally established in 1952 and incorporated in 2002, it operates through
a series of Local, National and Regional Chapters, Panels, Working Groups
and Correspondence Groups and represents the cargo handling world at
various international organisations, including the International Maritime
Organization (IMO), United Nations Conference on Trade and Development
(UNCTAD), International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International
Standards Organization (ISO).
Its members included ports, terminals, transport companies and other groups
associated with cargo handling and coordination. Members of ICHCA International
Panels represent a substantial cross-section of senior experts and professionals from
all sectors of the cargo transport industry globally. Members benefit from consulting
services and informative publications dealing with technical matters, best practice
advice and cargo handling news.
For more information on ICHCA International and its services please visit/contact
ICHCA International Limited
Suite 2, 85 Western Road,
Romford, Essex, RM1 3LS
United Kingdom

Tel:
Fax:
Email:
Website:

+44 (0) 1708 735295

+44 (0) 1708 735225
info@ichca.com.
www.ichca.com.

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet #3

The International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet series consists of the following
subjects:
No. 1
No. 2
No. 3
No. 4
No. 5
No. 6
No. 7
No. 8
No. 9
No. 10
No. 11
No. 12
No. 13
No. 14
No. 15
No. 16
No. 17
No. 18
No. 19
No. 20
No. 21
No. 22
No. 23
No. 24
No. 25
No. 26
No. 27
No. 29
No. 30
No. 31
No. 32
No. 33
No. 34
No. 35
No. 36

International Labour Office (ILO) Convention No. 152 Occupational

Safety and Health in Dockwork (revised)
Ships Lifting Plant (revised)
The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code (revised))
Classification Societies (revised)
Container Terminal Safety (revised)
Guidance on the Preparation of Emergency Plans (revised)
Safe Cleaning of Freight Containers (revised)
Safe Working on Container Ships
Safe Use of Flexible Intermediate Bulk Containers (FIBCs) Joint
publication with EFIBCA (under further revision)
Safe Working at Ro-Ro Terminals
The International Convention for Safe Containers (CSC) (revised)
Safety Audit System for Ports
Loading and Unloading of Solid Bulk Cargoes (revised)
The Role of the Independent Marine Surveyor in Assisting Claims
Handling (revised)
Substance Abuse
Safe Use of Textile Slings
Shore Ramps and Walkways (revised)
Port State Control
Safe Handling of Interlocked Flats (under revision)
Unseen Dangers in Containers
Stow it right
Suspension Trauma
Safe Handling of Forest Products
Safe use of Road Vehicle Twistlocks
An Illustrated Guide to Container Type and Size Codes
Safe Handling of Dangerous Bulk Liquids and Gases at the
Ship/Shore Interface
Safe Working with Pallets
Safe Handling of Logs from Water in British Columbia
Safe Handling of Tank Containers (joint publication with ITCO)
Safe Operation of Passenger Terminals
Safe Use of Cargo Strapping for Lifting Purposes
Safe Working with Reefer Containers
Container Top Safety
Provisions for Safe Lashing of Deck Containers
Safe Operation of Straddle Carriers

The International Safety Panel Research Paper series consists of the following
research papers:
No. 1
No. 2
No. 3
No. 4
No. 5
No. 6
No. 7

Semi-Automatic Twistlocks
Fumes in Ships Holds (revised)
Health & Safety Assessments in Ports (revised)
Container Top Safety, Lashing and Other Related Matters (partly
under revision as BP#34)
Port & Terminal Accident Statistics (revised)
Safe Handling of Radioactive Materials in Ports and Harbour Areas
(revised)
Ship Design Considerations for Stevedore Safety (revised)

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet #3

No. 8
No. 9
No. 10
No. 11
No. 12
No. 13
No. 14
No. 15
No. 16

Safe Walkways in Port & Terminal Areas

Personal Protective Equipment & Clothing
Back Pain
Lifting Persons at Work for Cargo Handling Purposes in the Port
Industry
Whole Body Vibration
Lifting of Containers by Rubber Tyred Gantry Cranes
Lashing of Deck Containers
Terminal Operations in High Winds
Crane Driver Ergonomics

No. 17

Terminal Lighting (in final preparation)

The International Safety Panel Technical/Operational Advice series consists of the

following:
No. 1
No. 1A
No. 2
No. 3

Vertical Tandem Lifting of Freight Containers

Vertical Tandem Lifting Operations Checklist
Container Vessels Safety aspects of Lashing on Deck 40 and 45
containers with particular regard to horizontal lashings
Guidelines on the Lifting of Persons for Cargo Handling Purposes

Plasticised Pocket Cards

IIL/1
IIL/2
IIL/3
IIL/4
IIL/5, 6
IIL/7
IIL/8

Dangerous Goods by Sea Documentation

Dangerous Goods by Sea: The IMDG Code Labels, Placards, Marks
and Signs
Confined Spaces on Board Dry Cargo Ships
Entry into Freight Containers
Safe slinging
Packing Cargo Transport Units (in preparation)
Security awareness in the marine transport chain (in preparation)

General Series
No. 1
No. 2
No. 3
No. 4
No. 5
No. 6
No. 7

Guidelines to Shipping Packaged Dangerous Goods by Sea Advice

to Consignors and Shippers
Fire Fighting in Ports and on Ships
WindStorm (joint publication with TT Club)
Gear Stores (joint publication with LEEA - in final preparation)
Ships Crews Coming Ashore at Working Terminals
Medical Standards for Terminal Equipment Drivers (in preparation)
Recommended Minimum Safety Specifications for Quay Container
Cranes (joint publication with PEMA and TT Club in final stages of
preparation)

Other titles in many of the series are in preparation

This publication is one of a series developed by the International Safety Panel
("Safety Panel") of ICHCA International Limited ("ICHCA"). The series is designed to
inform those involved in the cargo-handling field of various practical health and safety
issues. ICHCA aims to encourage port safety, the reduction of accidents in port work
and the protection of port workers' health.
ICHCA prepares its publications according to the information available at the time of
publication. This publication does not constitute professional advice nor is it an

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet #3

exhaustive summary of the information available on the subject matter to which the
publication refers. The publication should always be read in conjunction with the
relevant national and international legislation and any applicable regulations,
standards and codes of practice. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the
information but neither ICHCA nor any member of the Safety Panel is responsible for
any loss, damage, costs or expenses incurred (whether or not in negligence) arising
from reliance on or interpretation of the publication.
The comments set out in this publication are not necessarily the views of ICHCA or
any member of the Safety Panel
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or copied without
ICHCA's prior written permission. For information, contact ICHCA's registered office.

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet #3

ICHCA International Limited - INTERNATIONAL SAFETY PANEL

The International Safety Panel is composed of safety and training officers and
directors, transport consultants, representatives from leading safety and
training organisations, enforcement agencies, trade unions, insurance
interests, institutions and leading authorities on the subject area from around
the world.
Mike Compton (Chairman), Circlechief AP, UK
John Alexander, UK
Meir Amar, Port of Ashdod, ISRAEL
Martin Anderson, Port of Freemantle, AUSTRALIA
Paul Auston, Checkmate UK Limited, UK
David Avery, Firefly Limited, UK
Peter Bamford, CANADA
Philip Beesemer, ECT, THE NETHERLANDS
Geoff Beesley, Newcastle Stevedores, AUSTRALIA
Didi Ould Biha, SAMMA, MAURITANIA
Jan Boermans, DP World, THE NETHERLANDS
Mike Bohlman, Horizon Lines, USA (Deputy Chairman)
Roy Boneham, UK
Bill Brassington, UK
Jim Chubb, BMT Marine & Offshore Surveys Ltd (incorporating BMT Murray Fenton
Limited) UK
Daniele Ciulli, Contshipitalia, Italy
John Crowley, APM Terminals, USA
Johan van Daele, PSA, BELGIUM
Rob Dieda, SSA, USA
Trevor Dixon, WNTI, UK
Steve Durham, Trinity House, UK
Patricia Esquival, OPCSA, SPAIN
Margaret Fitzgerald, IRELAND
Pamela Fry, DP World, CANADA
Kirsty Goodwin, SAMSA, SOUTH AFRICA
Fabian Guerra, Fabian Guerra Associates, EQUADOR
Charles Haine, DP World, DUBAI
Harri Halme, Min. of Social Affairs & Health, Dept for Occupational Health & Safety,
FINLAND
Trevor Harris, DP World, DUBAI
Les Heather, Drake International, UK
Joseph Hogan, APM Terminals, DUBAI
Geoff Holden, LEEA, UK
Lawrie Holman, DP World, DUBAI
Hans Jacob, APMT, THE NETHERLANDS
Laurence Jones, TT Club, AUSTRALIA
Larry Keiman, Matrans Holding BV, THE NETHERLANDS
Gabriel Kierkels, APM Terminals, THE NETHERLANDS
Jos Koning, MARIN, THE NETHERLANDS
Henrik Kristensen, APM Terminals, THE NETHERLANDS
Ryan Jones, APM Terminals, CHINA
Fer van de Laar, IAPH, THE NETHERLANDS
Christof Lautwein, Malmedie, GERMANY
Shimon Lior, Israel Ports, Development and Assets, ISRAEL
Richard Marks, Royal Haskoning, UK

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet #3

Joachim Meifort, Hamburger Hafen-u Lagerhaus A-G, GERMANY
Marios Meletiou, ILO, SWITZERLAND
John Miller, Mersey Docks & Harbour Company, UK
Al le Monnier, ILWU, CANADA
Gordon Moir, TVReinland, JAPAN
Hannu Oja, Kone Cranes and PEMA, FINLAND
Manuel Ortuno, Lloyds Register, GERMANY
Nic Paines, Gordon, Giles & Coy Ltd, UK
Daan Potters, Merford, THE NETHERLANDS
Irfan Rahim, IMO, UK
Peter Rasmussen, BIMCO, DENMARK
Risto Repo, Accident Investigation Bureau of Finland, FINLAND
Rene van Rijn, Euroports Holdings, BELGIUM
Raymond van Rooyan, SAPO, SOUTH AFRICA
Cedric Rousseau, CMA-CGM, FRANCE
Alf Sandberg, GARD, NORWAY
Ambroise Sarr, Port of Dakar, SENEGAL
Ron Signorino, The Blueoceana Company, Inc., USA
Tom Sims, UK
Ken Smith, USCG, USA
Matt Smurr, Maersk Inc, USA
Armin Steinhoff, Behrde fr Arbeit, Hamburg, GERMANY
Peregrine Storrs-Fox, TT Club, UK
Bala Subramaniam, INDIA
Mark Sultana, Malta Freeport Terminals Ltd, MALTA
Chris Symonds, Drake International, UK
Diego Teurelincx, FEPORT, BELGIUM
Markus Theuerholz, German Lashing. GERMANY
David Tozer, Lloyds Register, UK
Gerrit Uitbeijerse, THE NETHERLANDS
Hubert Vanleenhove, BELGIUM
Evert Wijdeveld, Environmental & Safety Affairs, Deltalinqs, THE NETHERLANDS
(Deputy Chairman)
Bill Williams, Maersk Inc. USA
Dave Wilson, Hutchison Ports (UK) Limited, UK
Jan Zwaan, Transport Canada, CANADA
Beat Zwygart, LASSTEC, FRANCE
OBSERVERS:
Harry Lam, HIT, HONG KONG
John Mace, International Group of P&I Clubs, UK
Capt. Jim McNamara, National Cargo Bureau, Inc., USA
Samuel Ng, Maritime Department, HONG KONG
Pedro J. Roman Nunez, Puertos del Estado, SPAIN
Mick Payze, AUSTRALIA
Charles Visconti, International Cargo Gear Bureau, Inc., USA
AFFILIATED MEMBERS:
OPIG, EUROPE
The above lists those persons who were members of the Panel when the pamphlet
was published. However, membership does change and a list of current members
can always be obtained from the ICHCA International Secretariat.

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet #3

About the Author

MARGARET FITZGERALD
BSc (Hons), CChem, MRSC, MSc, MIOSH, DGSA
Margaret holds an Honours degree in Chemistry and a Masters in Occupational
Safety & Health. She has more than 15 years experience in risk management in
relation to maritime and road transportation of hazardous materials, chemicals, oil,
etc, storage and environmental protection.
Having spent 4 years in private industry for a risk management company specialising
in chemical safety, Margaret joined the Secretariat of the International Maritime
Organization, where she was responsible for Dangerous Goods legislation and
related environmental protection matters. She oversaw the ongoing development of
the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code and its harmonization with
other modal regulations and the UN Orange Book. She was IMOs representative at
the UN Committee of Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods.
Margaret subsequently joined the Irish Government's Health & Safety Authority as an
inspector in the Dangerous Substances/ADR Group, responsible for drafting,
implementing and enforcing dangerous goods legislation under the ADR and DGSA
Directives. She was Irelands representative at transport meetings of the European
Commission in Brussels and the United Nations in Geneva.
Margaret is now a chemical specialist working with Lloyds Register and has been a
member of the International Safety Panel for many years. She wrote the original
booklet and the subsequent revisions up to 2009.

This edition of the briefing pamphlet was prepared by ICHCA Internationals

secretariat.

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet # 3

CONTENTS
Item

Page

Status/Background

Principles of the IMDG Code

Layout of the IMDG Code

Classification

Degree of Hazard (Packing Group)

Product Containment

Documentation

Stowage and Segregation

Competent Authorities

Warning

Appendix 1 Contents page of the IMDG Code

ISBN: 978-1-85330-001-1
First Published:
1st Revision
2nd Revision
3rd Revision
4th Revision
5th Revision
6th Revision
7th Revision

1993
1995
2000
2003
2005
2007
2009
2011

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet # 3

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code

1

Background
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is the specialised United
Nations agency with responsibility for international maritime affairs. Like all
United Nations agencies, the IMO is made up of Member States who are
obliged to become contracting parties to IMOs various international
conventions. In addition to the Member States, there are a number of
international organizations who are concerned with maritime issues and who
have Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) status at IMO. ICHCA
International Limited has such status at IMO.

1.1

There are 2 international conventions produced by IMO which govern the

transport of dangerous goods:

1.1.1

The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 (1974 SOLAS
Convention), as amended, Chapter VII of which deals with the safety aspects
of the transport of dangerous goods by sea; and

1.1.2

The International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships as

modified by the Protocol of 1978 (MARPOL 73/78), Chapter III of which deals
with prevention of pollution arising from the transport of dangerous goods by
sea.

1.2

All IMO Member States are required to implement national legislation to

address the transport of dangerous goods, through their legal obligations
under the SOLAS and MARPOL Conventions. However, to assist them, the
IMO has produced a detailed set of requirements covering the transport of
packaged dangerous goods by sea in a separate Code; the International
Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code.

1.3

The requirements of the IMDG Code are based upon the Model Regulations
(known as the Orange Book) produced by the United Nations Committee of
Experts on the Transport of Dangerous Goods in Geneva, together with a
number of recommendations for good practice. The requirements of the IMDG
Code are published in 2 volumes with an additional Supplement volume,
which contains a number of individual IMO related publications.

1.4

Most parts of the IMDG Code became mandatory on 1st January 2004, under
the mandatory requirements of the SOLAS Convention. While most Member
States have incorporated the requirements of the IMDG Code without further
amendment into their national legislation, others have applied some different
(usually more stringent) national requirements in addition to those of the
IMDG Code. When shipping dangerous goods, it is important to be aware of
any further restrictions or requirements, which may apply in a particular
country, in addition to the IMDG Code.

1.5

In the latest edition of the Code (amendment 34), training of shoreside

personnel involved in packaged dangerous goods shipments is made
mandatory from 1 January 2010. Only paragraphs 1.3.1.4 to 1.3.1.7 (which
deal with training content) remain recommendatory

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet # 3

1.6

The IMDG Code is updated on a two-yearly basis by IMOs Sub-Committee

on Dangerous Goods, Solid Bulk Cargoes and Containers (DSC). In addition
to incorporating amendments arising from the United Nations Committee of
Experts in Geneva, the DSC Sub-Committee also considers proposals for
amendments prepared by IMOs Member States. All amendments must be
approved by IMOs most senior technical committee, the Maritime Safety
Committee (MSC), before they can be published in the next edition of the
IMDG Code.

1.7

As a result of the two-yearly cycle of amendments, a completely new edition

of the IMDG Code is published every two years. Following publication, errata
sheets may be issued to correct any printing errors which may have arisen. It
is extremely important to ensure that the details on any errata sheets that may
be issued are incorporated into the IMDG Code and taken into account at the
appropriate time.

Principles of the IMDG Code

2.1

The IMDG Code is based on an internationally agreed system which:

2.1.1

groups dangerous goods together based on the hazards they present in

transport (classification);
contains the dangerous goods in packagings/tanks which are of appropriate
strength and which will prevent the goods escaping;
uses hazard warning labels and other identifying marks to identify dangerous
goods in transport;
requires standard documentation to be provided when dangerous goods are
being transported;
lays down principles for ensuring that incompatible dangerous goods are kept
apart;
lays down principles for where to place dangerous goods on board ship to
ensure safe transport;
provides emergency response advice for dangerous goods involved in a fire
or spillage on board ship.

2.1.2
2.1.3
2.1.4
2.1.5
2.1.6
2.1.7

Layout of the IMDG Code

3.1

The Code is composed of 7 parts, each part covering one of the principles .1
to .7 outlined above. Central to the IMDG Code is the Dangerous Goods List
(DGL) which is the core of the Code. This contains a list of all the dangerous
goods assigned under the United Nations system in numerical (UN Number)
order, together with their specific transport requirements in a coded system.

3.2

The Code is presented in two books, Volume 1 and Volume 2 with a third
Supplement volume containing related IMO publications and IMO resolutions.
It is necessary to use the first two volumes to obtain the required information
when shipping dangerous goods by sea. The IMDG Code adopts a standard
reference book format with an introduction, main contents, appendices and an
index. Its layout has been harmonised with that of the United Nations Model
Regulations (the Orange Book) which forms the basis of all international
modal regulations covering the transport of dangerous goods (i.e. road, rail,
inland waterway, air and sea). Consequently, the multimodal shipper should
be able to find the same information in the same part of the international
regulations, no matter what form of transport is being used.

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet # 3

3.3

Volume One
Volume 1 contains Parts 1, 2, 4, 5, 6 and 7. Details of the contents of each of
these parts are reproduced in the Appendix of this briefing pamphlet.

3.4

Volume Two
Volume 2 is comprised mainly of Part 3 which contains the DGL, a central
index of all the dangerous goods listed in UN Number order, together with
their transport requirements in a coded system presented in 18 columns. The
transport requirements contained in the DGL include:

special provisions applicable to certain substances and articles in the

DGL;

limited quantity and exempted quantity provisions;

Stowage & segregation requirements;

Packaging and tank requirements; and

transport schedules for radioactive materials.

This volume also has two appendices and an alphabetical list of the
substances, materials and articles listed in the DGL.

3.5

The Supplement Volume

The Supplement volume to the Code comprises a number of separate IMO
publications that relate to the Code, i.e.:
1.

Emergency Procedures (EmS) for use on ships in the event of an

accident (e.g. spillage or fire).

2.

Medical First Aid Guide (MFAG) for use on ships in accidents involving
dangerous goods.

3.

Reporting procedures, for use by ships to report incidents involving

dangerous goods, harmful substances, and/or marine pollutants.

4.

IMO/ILO/UN ECE Guidelines for Packing Cargo in Freight Containers

or Vehicles.

5.

Recommendations on the Safe Use of Pesticides in Ships (e.g.

fumigation).

6.

INF Code.

7.

Various relevant IMO Resolutions, Circulars, etc.

Classification

4.1

The purpose of the IMDG Codes classification system is concerned with the
safety of people and is:

to distinguish between goods which are considered to be dangerous

for transport and those which are not;
to identify the dangers which are presented by dangerous goods in
transport; and
to ensure that the correct measures are taken to enable these goods
to be transported safely without risk to persons or property (both within
the port and on the ship).

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet # 3

4.2

In accordance with the principles set out in the UN Recommendations, the

IMDG Code divides dangerous goods into 9 classes, some of which are
further subdivided, as follows:Class 1

Explosives

Class 2

Gases, which are sub-divided as follows:

Class 2.1

Flammable gases

Class 2.2

Non-flammable gases

Class 2.3

Toxic gases

Class 3

Flammable liquids

Class 4

Flammable solids, substances liable to spontaneous

combustion and substances which, in contact with water, emit
flammable gases, which are sub-divided as follows:

Class 4.1

Flammable solids

Class 4.2

Spontaneously combustible substances

Class 4.3

Substances which, in contact with water, emit flammable gases

Class 5

Oxidizing substances and organic peroxides, which are subdivided as follows:

Class 5.1

Oxidizing substances

Class 5.2

Organic peroxides

Class 6

Toxic and infectious substances, which are sub-divided as

follows:

Class 6.1

Toxic substances

Class 6.2

Infectious substances

Class 7

Radioactive material

Class 8

Corrosives

Class 9

Miscellaneous dangerous substances and articles (class9) and

environmentally hazardous substances

4.3

Some dangerous goods may present hazards associated with more than one
class. For example, some flammable liquids (class 3) may also be toxic (class
6.1) and some flammable liquids (class 3) may also be toxic (class 6.1) and
corrosive (class 8). When classifying dangerous goods, the main hazard
presented is considered to be the primary hazard and any other hazards (up
to a maximum of 2) are considered to be subsidiary hazards. Dangerous
goods must always be labelled to show all the hazards (i.e. primary and
subsidiary) they present in transport (see 4.4 and 4.5 below).

4.4

Pure chemicals and dangerous goods transported in sufficient quantities are

allocated individual United Nations (UN) numbers. However, as many of the
chemicals produced today are mixtures, solutions, formulations, etc.,
containing a number of different hazardous constituents, they are shipped
under an appropriate general Not Otherwise Specified (N.O.S.) entry, which
describes the dangerous goods by their main hazards (up to 3). For example,
any flammable liquid which does not have its own individual UN Number is
shipped under UN 1993 Flammable Liquid, NOS. Similarly, any corrosive

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet # 3

solid, which is also toxic, is shipped under UN 2923 Corrosive Solid, Toxic,
NOS. Most classes contain a number of possible NOS. entries which may be
used and Appendix A on page 215 of volume 2 lists all the possible NOS.
entries by class.
4.5

Class 5.2 (Organic Peroxides) and self-reactive substances in class 4.1 are
divided into five types (B to F) and further sub-divided according to whether
they are solid or liquid and whether they require temperature control during
transport. This results in 20 group UN Numbers being available to ship both
organic peroxides and self-reactive substances (e.g. UN 3101 for Organic
Peroxide Type B, Liquid and UN 3235 for Self-reactive liquid, Type D,
Temperature-Controlled).

4.6

Each class is assigned a specific diamond shaped label or labels indicating

the main hazard pictorially and showing the class number in the bottom
corner. Each package containing dangerous goods must bear the
appropriate label(s) to warn of all the hazards (both primary and any
subsidiary hazards) presented by the dangerous goods. Orientation labels
(indicating which way is considered to be upright) are also required for certain
dangerous goods. Exempted quantity marks are used to show the primary
hazard of each of the dangerous goods in the package.

4.7

As a consequence of MARPOL 73/78 Annex III (see 1.3 above), since 1st
January 1991 items which are harmful to the marine environment, but not to
people or the ship (hitherto the only basis for inclusion in the Code) have
been included in Class 9. All marine pollutants, whether in Class 9 (because
they do not fall under the criteria of classes 1-8) or one of the other classes,
must carry the triangular marine pollutant mark.

4.8

Freight containers, vehicles, etc., containing such packages must bear

enlarged labels, known as placards. However, In addition to the class
placards, there are also additional marks and signs, which must be shown on
the exterior of vehicles and cargo transport units in certain circumstances.
These include the Fumigation Warning Sign to be displayed on units carrying
dangerous goods under fumigation and the Elevated Temperature Mark to be
displayed on tanks carrying dangerous goods which are carried hot.

Degree of hazard (Packing Group)

5.1

Dangerous goods in most classes have been sub-divided into three packing
groups (PG) reflecting the degree of danger they present in transport.
Packing Group (PG) I - represents great danger;
Packing Group (PG) II - represents medium danger; and
Packing Group (PG) III - represents minor danger.

5.2

When selecting a packaging to contain dangerous goods, the PG of the

dangerous goods determine the type of packaging and the standards to which
it is manufactured and tested. Packagings used to transport PG I dangerous
goods must be manufactured and tested to a higher standard than
packagings used to transport PG III dangerous goods (see section 6 below).

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet # 3

6
6.1

Product containment
Product containment is dealt with in six distinct categories, as follows:a)

Conventional packagings (e.g. drums, bags, fibreboard boxes)

have a capacity up to 450 litres/400 kg, are required to meet certain
standards, pass specified performance tests, and bear UN packaging
codes as evidence of this. The IMDG Code indicates a range of
possible packages for every substance, but these are, of course,
subject to the prime requirement that the packaging materials must be
compatible with the proposed contents and suitable for use.
The packagings permitted to be used for all dangerous goods are
coded into packing instructions (P codes) which are given in column 8
of the DGL. Any special packing provisions which apply are coded (PP
codes) in column 9 of the DGL. Full details of the Packaging
Instructions and Special Packing provisions are found in Chapter
4.1.4.1 of Volume I of the IMDG Code. Details of testing and examples
of UN packaging codes are given in Chapter 6.1 of Volume 1 of the
IMDG Code.

b)

Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) are large rigid or flexible

packagings of a capacity up to 3,000 litres and are designed for
mechanical handling. Six types of IBC are specified, together with
performance tests and details of which substances are allowed in
which types of IBC.
If IBCs are permitted to be used for dangerous goods they are coded
into IBC packing instructions (IBC codes) which are given in column
10 of the DGL. Any special IBC packing provisions which apply are
coded (B codes) in column 11 of the DGL. Full details of the
Packaging Instructions and Special Packing provisions are found in
Chapter 4.1.4.2 of Volume I of the IMDG Code. Details of testing and
examples of IBC packaging codes are given in Chapter 6.5 of Volume
1 of the IMDG Code.

c)

Large Packagings
Large packagings consist of an outer packaging having a capacity
exceeding 400 kg net mass or 450 litres capacity up to a volume of not
more than 3m3 and containing either inner packagings or articles.
They are designed to be handled by mechanical means.
If Large Packagings are permitted to be used for all dangerous goods
they are coded into large packing instructions (LP codes) which are
given in column 8 of the DGL. Any special large packing provisions
which apply are coded (LP codes) in column 9 of the DGL. Full details
of the large Packaging Instructions and Special Packing provisions are
found in Chapter 4.1.4.3 of Volume I of the IMDG Code. Details of
testing and examples of large packaging codes are given in Chapter
6.6 of Volume 1 of the IMDG Code.

d)

Bulk Containers
Certain solid dangerous goods may be transported in closed bulk
packagings when indicated in the DGL by the code "BK2" in column
13 of the DGL. Closed bulk containers include freight containers,
skips, offshore bulk containers, bulk bins, swap bodies, trough-shaped

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet # 3

containers, roller containers and the load compartment of vehicles.
Sheeted bulk containers may not be used for sea transport. Details on
the use of bulk containers are given in chapter 4.3.
e)

Portable tanks and road tank vehicles

Portable tanks and road tank vehicles range in size from 450 litres
upwards, and different types, required to accommodate the different
requirements of various liquids and gases, are detailed in the Code.
Items such as maximum allowable working pressure, relief valves,
filling ratios etc., are all dealt with, together with specific requirements
for individual substances (volume 1, chapters 4.2, 6.7 and 6.8. also in
the DGL). Multiple-Element Gas Containers (MEGC) are built to
similar standards as portable tanks and are used for the transport of
non-refrigerated gases (see Chapter 4.2 and 6.7).

f)

Limited Quantities
When certain dangerous goods are packed in small quantities (as
given in column 7 (a) of the DGL) and the package gross mass does
not exceed 30 kg, they are exempt from the full requirements of the
Code provided they meet the requirements given in Chapter 3.4 of
Volume 2. For more hazardous dangerous goods, including all PG I
dangerous goods, this exemption does not apply and the word None
appears in column 7 (a) of the DGL. This indicates that the full
requirements of the IMDG Code apply and there is no exemption
quantity

g)

Exempted Quantities
A new Chapter 3.5 has been added in the latest edition of the Code
and this is reflected in column 7 (b) of the DGL. This column will
provide an alpha numeric code which indicates the maximum quantity
per inner and outer packaging for transporting dangerous goods as
exempted quantities. The codes are E0 to E5 and the criteria for each
is explained in Chapter 3.5. Excepted quantities of dangerous goods
of certain classes meeting the provisions of this Chapter are not
subject to any other provisions of the Code except for:
1. The training provisions in Chapter 1.3
2. The classification procedures and packing group
criteria in Part 2 Classification
3. The relevant packaging provisions in Part 4
4. The provisions for documentation in Chapter 5.4
Where dangerous goods in excepted quantities for which different
codes are assigned are packaged together, the total quantity per outer
packaging shall be limited to that corresponding to the most restrictive
code. Paragraphs 3.5.2 and 3.5.3 deal with packagings to be used for
excepted quantities and tests for those packagings

Documentation

7.1

Information which has to appear on shipping documents (Volume 1, Chapter

5.4) falls into the following categories:
a)

Dangerous Goods Description i.e. UN number, Proper Shipping

Name (PSN), class/division, subsidiary risks and Packing Group. The

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet # 3

sequence in which this information appears is vitally important and is
laid down in the IMDG Code;
b)

Information required in addition to the dangerous goods

description - number and kind of packages, total quantity of
dangerous goods and dangerous goods declaration (duly signed by or
on behalf of the shipper) certifying that all the Code requirements have
been complied with.
Additional information required only if applicable - such as flash point,
marine pollutant, limited quantity, exempted quantity and container
packing certificate/vehicle declaration certifying that permitted
dangerous goods have been properly packed and secured in a
suitable container/vehicle. Special information is sometimes required
for goods of classes 1, 2, 4.1, 5.2, 6.2 and 7 as mentioned in chapter
5.4. One item that is specifically NOT required is any reference to
IMDG Code page numbers as they can be confused with UN numbers.

Stowage and Segregation

8.1

Stowage refers to where (on deck or under deck) and on what sort of ship
(cargo or passenger) different dangerous goods may be stowed, or whether
they are prohibited. There are 5 stowage categories (A to E) and the stowage
category indicating the applicable requirements for each UN Number appear
in column 16 of the DGL (volume 1, chapter 7.1).

8.2

Dangerous goods, which may interact dangerously with each other, need to
be separated (i.e. segregated) from each other. This is achieved by
maintaining a safe distance between:

dangerous goods in different classes (e.g. explosives (class 1) from

flammable liquids (class 3));

dangerous goods in the same class (e.g. some acids from alkalis, both
being corrosives (class 8)); and

dangerous goods and non-dangerous goods (e.g. toxics from

foodstuffs).

8.3

The Code specifies four separation distances (3m, 6m, 12m and 24m) which
are coded into a segregation table (volume 1, chapter 7.2), together with
information in the Dangerous Goods List (column 16). These enable the
required level of segregation to be established for different dangerous goods
in various types of shipment (e.g. break bulk, container ships, Ro-Ro etc.).
Segregation within cargo transport units (e.g. freight containers, vehicles) is
also dealt with in chapter 7.2. Similar principles should be applied on shore
when such cargoes are stowed with other dangerous goods and other
cargoes

Competent Authorities

9.1

Competent Authorities, often the Marine Section of the Ministry of Transport,

are responsible for certain issues in relation to the maritime transport of
dangerous goods, such as for granting approvals and exemptions, wherever
this is authorised in the Code. Where the Competent Authority of one
Member State has granted an approval or an exemption, this must be
recognised by the Competent Authorities of all the relevant Member States
through which the dangerous goods are travelling. A list of Competent

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet # 3

Authority addresses is included in the Code, and is regularly updated as
additional information becomes available to IMO (volume 1, chapter 7.9).

WARNING
The foregoing necessarily represents a very brief summary of some of the
important aspects dealt with in the IMDG Code. For detailed advice it is
essential to refer to the latest version of the Code itself, read in conjunction
with national legislation etc.

NOTE: ICHCA International provides a technical summary to its members of each set
of changes made to the IMDG Code and also offers a technical advisory service to
answer any queries that might arise

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet # 3

APPENDIX 1 The IMDG Code Contents pages
The IMDG Code - VOLUME 1

Page

Preamble

iii

Contents

Part 1 General Provisions, Definitions and Training

Chapter 1.1 General provisions
Chapter 1.2 Definitions, units of measurement and abbreviations
Chapter 1.3 Training
Chapter 1.4 Security
Chapter 1.5 General provisions concerning class 7

3
9
25
30
33

Part 2 Classification
Chapter 2.0
Chapter 2.1
Chapter 2.2
Chapter 2.3
Chapter 2.4

Introduction
39
Class 1 Explosives
44
Class 2 Gases
52
Class 3 Flammable liquids
55
Flammable Solids; substances liable to spontaneous
combustion; Substances, which in contact with water,
emit flammable gases
59
Chapter 2.5 Class 5 Oxidizing substances and organic peroxides 69
Chapter 2.6 Toxic and infectious substances
84
Chapter 2.7 Class 7 Radioactive materials
92
Chapter 2.8 Class 8 Corrosive substances
112
Chapter 2.9 Class 9 Miscellaneous dangerous substances
and articles
114
Chapter 2.10 Marine pollutants
124

Part 4 - Packing and Tank Provisions

Chapter 4.1 Use of packagings, including IBCs and
large packagings
129
Chapter 4.2 Use of portable tanks and multi-element gas containers 200
Chapter 4.3 Use of bulk containers
219
Part 5 - Consignment Procedures
Chapter 5.1 General Provisions
Chapter 5.2 Marking and labelling of packages including IBCs
Chapter 5.3 Placarding and marking of cargo transport units
Chapter 5.4 Documentation
Chapter 5.5 Special provisions
Part 6 - Construction and Testing of Packagings
Chapter 6.1 Provisions for the construction and testing
Chapter 6.2 Provisions for the construction and testing
of receptacles for gases
Chapter 6.3 Provisions for the construction and test of
packagings for Class 6.2 substances
Chapter 6.4 Provisions for the construction, testing and
approval of packages and material of Class 7
Chapter 6.5 Provisions for the construction and testing of IBCs
Chapter 6.6 Provisions for the construction and testing of
large packagings
Chapter 6.7 Provisions for the design, construction, and inspection
and testing of portable tanks and MEGCs

225
230
239
243
254

259
278
295
300
318
337
344

ICHCA International Limited

ICHCA International Safety Panel Briefing Pamphlet # 3

Chapter 6.8
Chapter 6.9

Provisions for road tank vehicles

Provisions for the design, construction, inspection
and testing of bulk containers

Part 7 - Provisions Concerning Transport Operations

Chapter 7.1 Stowage
Chapter 7.2 Segregation
Chapter 7.3 Special provisions in the event of an incident
and fire precautions involving dangerous goods
Chapter 7.4 Transport of cargo transport units on board ships
Chapter 7.5 Packing of cargo transport units
Chapter 7.6 Transport of dangerous goods in ship-borne
barges or barge-carrying ships
Chapter 7.7 Temperature control provisions
Chapter 7.8 Transport of wastes
Chapter 7.9 Exemptions, approvals and certificates

385
389

393
410
453
456
460
462
465
469
471

VOLUME 2
Part 3 - Dangerous Goods List and Limited Quantity Exceptions
Chapter 3.1 General
Chapter 3.2 Dangerous Goods List
Chapter 3.3 Special provisions applicable to certain substances,
materials or articles
Chapter 3.4 Limited quantities
Chapter 3.5 Exempted quantities

195
214
217

Appendix A - List of generic and N.O.S. proper shipping names

223

Appendix B - Glossary of terms

237

Index

247

3
20

ICHCA International Limited