The IMDG Code has undergone many changes over the years, in both format and content, in order to keep up with the rapid expansion of the shipping industry. Amendment 35-10 includes revisions to various sections of the Code and to transport requirements for specific substances. It was adopted by IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) at its 87th session in May 2010.
First published in 1965, the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code has become the mandatory framework for all aspects of handling dangerous goods and marine pollutants in sea transport. Although it is directed primarily at sea transport, the provisions of the IMDG Code may affect a whole range of industries and services. Manufacturers, packers, shippers, feeder services such as road and rail and port authorities will find authoritative advice on classification, stowage, segregation, packing, labeling, terminology and emergency response action.
The IMDG Code that was adopted by resolution A.716(17) and amended by Amendments 27 to 30 was recommended to Governments for adoption or for use as the basis for national regulations in pursuance of their obligations under regulation VII/1.4 of the 1974 SOLAS Convention, as amended, and regulation 1(3) of Annex III of MARPOL 73/78. The IMDG Code, as amended, attained mandatory status from 1 January 2004 under the umbrella of SOLAS, 1974; however, some parts of the Code continue to be recommendatory. Observance of the Code harmonizes the practices and procedures followed in the carriage of dangerous goods by sea and ensures compliance with the mandatory provisions of the SOLAS Convention and of Annex III of MARPOL 73/78.First published in 1965, the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code has become the mandatory framework for all aspects of handling dangerous goods and marine pollutants in sea transport. Although it is directed primarily at sea transport, the provisions of the IMDG Code may affect a whole range of industries and services. Manufacturers, packers, shippers, feeder services such as road and rail and port authorities will find authoritative advice on classification, stowage, segregation, packing, labeling, terminology and emergency response action.The IMDG Code, which sets out in detail the requirements applicable to each individual substance, material or article, has undergone many changes, both in layout and content, in order to keep pace with the expansion and progress of industry. IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) is authorized by the Organization’s Assembly to adopt amendments to the Code, thus enabling IMO to respond promptly to developments in transport.
