International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code

IMDG Code or International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code is accepted as an international guideline to the safe transportation or shipment of dangerous goods or hazardous materials by water on vessel. IMDG Code is intended to protect crew members and to prevent marine pollution in the safe transportation of hazardous materials by vessel. It is recommended to governments for adoption or for use as the basis for national regulations.

The implementation of the Code is mandatory in conjunction with the obligations of the members of united nation government under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL 73/78). It is intended for use not only by the mariner but also by all those involved in industries and services connected with shipping. Contains advice on terminology, packaging, labeling, placarding, markings, stowage, segregation, handling, and emergency response.

The code is updated and maintained by the DSC Sub-Committee of the International Maritime Organization every 2 years.

The currect edition to the IMDG Code is the 2010 Edition; Incorporating Amendment 35-10. This edition was applied on a voluntary basis starting 1 January 2011 and became mandatory on 1 January 2012. The 2012 Edition; Incorporating Amendment 36-12, will be voluntary starting 1 January 2013 and become mandatory on 1 January 2014.

External links

• IMO Website: IMDG Code
• US Office of Hazardous Materials Safety
• IMO:Carriage of chemicals by ship
• IMO:Preamble:IMDG Code 2006 Edition
• YellowOffshore - Distance education in IMDG-Code