INTERNATIONAL MARITIME
DANGEROUS GOODS (IMDG) CODE
Detailed Notes
1. Introduction
The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code was first published in 1965 by
the International Maritime Organization (IMO). It amplifies the requirements of the SOLAS
and MARPOL Conventions and has become the primary international instrument governing
the safe transport of dangerous goods and marine pollutants by sea.
2. Legal Framework
The IMDG Code applies to all ships subject to:
• SOLAS 1974 – Safety of Life at Sea
• MARPOL 73/78 – Prevention of Pollution from Ships
The Code became mandatory on 1 January 2004.
3. Objectives of the IMDG Code
• Enhance safe transport of dangerous goods
• Protect the marine environment
• Prevent damage to ships, cargo and personnel
• Ensure worldwide uniformity in carriage regulations
• Facilitate free movement of dangerous goods
4. Structure and Layout of the IMDG Code
The IMDG Code consists of 7 parts and is published in two volumes with a supplement.
Volume 1:
• Part 1 – General provisions, definitions and training
• Part 2 – Classification
• Part 4 – Packing and tank provisions
• Part 5 – Consignment procedures
• Part 6 – Construction and testing of packagings
• Part 7 – Transport operations
Volume 2:
• Part 3 – Dangerous Goods List (DGL)
• Appendices and Index
Supplement includes EmS, MFAG, reporting procedures and special codes.
5. Updating of the IMDG Code
The IMDG Code is updated every two years to incorporate:
• New dangerous goods
• Technological developments
• Safety lessons from operational experience
Each amendment is valid for up to three years with yellow (transition) and green years
defining implementation.
6. Classification of Dangerous Goods
Dangerous goods are classified into 9 classes based on the primary hazard:
Class 1 – Explosives
Class 2 – Gases
Class 3 – Flammable Liquids
Class 4 – Flammable Solids
Class 5 – Oxidizing Substances & Organic Peroxides
Class 6 – Toxic & Infectious Substances
Class 7 – Radioactive Material
Class 8 – Corrosive Substances
Class 9 – Miscellaneous Dangerous Goods
7. Packing Groups
Packing groups indicate the degree of danger:
• PG I – High danger
• PG II – Medium danger
• PG III – Low danger
Packing group information is found in Column 5 of the Dangerous Goods List.
8. Marking, Labelling and Placarding
All dangerous goods must be correctly marked, labelled and placarded:
• Proper Shipping Name (PSN) and UN Number
• Hazard labels for primary and subsidiary risks
• Marine pollutant mark where applicable
• Placards on cargo transport units on all sides and ends
Markings must be durable and survive three months immersion in seawater.
9. Documentation Requirements
Key documents required onboard ships carrying dangerous goods:
• Document of Compliance
• Dangerous Goods Declaration
• Dangerous Goods Manifest or Stowage Plan
• Emergency Response Information (EmS & MFAG)
• Updated Dangerous Cargo List
10. Emergency Response
Emergency procedures are provided in the IMDG Supplement:
• EmS Guide – Fire and Spillage response
• MFAG – Medical First Aid Guide
These guides provide step-by-step actions for emergencies involving dangerous goods.
11. Conclusion
The IMDG Code plays a vital role in ensuring the safe carriage of dangerous goods by sea.
Strict compliance with its provisions minimizes risks to life, property and the marine
environment.