Transporting goods by sea can be complicated, especially if dangerous goods are in the cargo.
These risks are related, in part, to the possibility of a failure or accident occurring during the voyage, resulting in damage to the containers or spillage from the containers.
Because, if it happens, it could cause harm to the crew and the environment.
Dangerous goods transport by sea, everything you need to know
To deal with the transport of dangerous goods by sea, there is the IMDG code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Transport Code). It is an international regulation that identifies the universal rules for the transport of dangerous goods by sea.
This code was adopted in 1965 and is subject to periodic revisions and updates. The latest version, corresponding to IMDG 38-16, came into force on January 1, 2018 and shows the current regulations.
It also covers the identification of hazardous materials and requirements for packaging, labeling, shipping and travel documentation.
The International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Sea Code is to be complied with.
Failure to do so could result in serious penalties, as the main purpose of this is to ensure the safety of people, the ship and the environment.
What should the labels look like?
- UN Number: 4-digit code that identifies a hazardous material.
- Proper Shipping Name (PSN): official shipping name.
- Square-shaped label showing the hazard class.
- Second label if there are secondary hazards.
- Orientation arrows: necessary to transport liquids.
- Marine Pollutant Mark: if any.
Containers
Labeling should also apply to containers. The IMDG code establishes that they must be fixed to the external walls. If they are 25x25cm, on all four sides of the container.
If in the container there are packages with hazardous substances with the same UN number and they exceed 4000 kg, the UN number must be reported; applying an orange paper or showing the commodity code.
Packaging
Also, only approved containers should be used and in the manner indicated. Therefore, containers for the transport of dangerous goods must have been approved, pass a series of technical tests and be recognized by the UN. These are the main types of packaging to be used:
- Sacks.
- Steel or plastic drums.
- Composite packaging.
- Large packaging (LP).
- Large container for bulk transport (IBC).
Here’s everything you need to know about transporting dangerous goods by sea. We hope it has been of great help to you.
Remember that at SpainSur Forwarders we are specialized in transit and international trade operations, including the transport of Dangerous Goods by sea. If you have any further questions, or if you want to start a supply chain to import or export, you can always count on our services.
