International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code
IMDG Code or International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code is accepted by MSC 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.s mandatory in conjunction with the obligations of the members of united nation government under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships.
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 HNS Convention covers hazardous and noxious substances that are included in the IMDG code.
The code is updated and maintained by the CCC Sub-Committee of the International Maritime Organization every 2 years.
IMG Code in calendar year 2017 is the either the 2014 Edition; Incorporating Amendment 37-14 or 2016 Edition; Incorporating Amendment 38-16. Both the 2014 Edition and the 2016 Edition were voluntary in 2017. The 2016 Edition becomes mandatory in 2018 and will again be voluntary in 2019 when the 2018 Edition will also be in use.
