The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code) is an internationally agreed regulation developed by the recommendations of the United Nations’ panel of experts on transportation of hazardous goods along with the IMO and sets provisions for the safe transport of dangerous goods by sea.The IMDG code is a very much living document and gets amended from time to time (every 2 years).

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE IMDG CODE?

• Enhance the safe carriage of dangerous goods
• While facilitating the free unrestricted movement of such goods
• Prevent pollution to the environment

LEGAL STATUS OF IMDG CODE

• The IMDG code is a legal document under chapter VII part a of SOLAS 1974 and MARPOL 73/78, annex III, regulation 1(2) prohibits the carriage of harmful substances in ships except when carried in accordance with the IMDG code.

APPLICATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF IMDG CODE

The provisions contained in this Code are applicable to all ships to which the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 (SOLAS 74), as amended, applies and which are carrying dangerous goods as defined in regulation 1 of part A of chapter VII of that Convention.