Transporting Dangerous Goods by Sea: IMDG Overview - Canada Training Course

More than 80 percent of the world's traded goods are transported by sea. Cargo vessels routinely carry fuels, chemicals, lithium batteries, compressed gases, paints, pesticides, and other regulated materials. When properly identified, packaged, marked, documented, and handled, these materials can be transported safely. Errors can lead to fires, explosions, toxic releases, environmental contamination, cargo loss, and serious risks to people and the marine environment. Sea transportation presents unique challenges because shipments may remain in transit for weeks while exposed to moisture, salt air, vessel movement, vibration, weather, and stacked cargo. Once a vessel leaves port, emergency response options are limited.

To help manage these risks, dangerous goods transported internationally by sea are regulated under the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code, commonly known as the IMDG Code. The IMDG Code is published by the International Maritime Organization, or IMO. In Canada, Transport Canada administers the Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) Regulations. Safe transportation begins with correctly identifying and classifying the material. Dangerous goods are divided into nine hazard classes ranging from explosives and gases to radioactive materials and corrosive substances. Packing groups indicate the relative degree of danger and help determine packaging requirements. Packing Group I indicates a high degree of danger, Packing Group II identifies a medium degree of danger, and Packing Group III identifies a lower degree of danger.

Once classified, the next step is to select packaging that is authorized for the material and suitable for transportation by sea. Some dangerous goods require packaging that meets United Nations, or UN, specification standards. Packages must feature required markings, such as the proper shipping name, UN identification number, orientation arrows, and marine pollutant marks. Accurate documentation communicates essential information about dangerous goods to carriers, vessel personnel, inspectors, and emergency responders. Dangerous goods must also be properly stowed and segregated aboard the vessel in accordance with the IMDG Code to keep incompatible dangerous goods separated. Conducting a final review of shipment limitations and requirements helps prevent errors and supports safe, compliant transportation.

This program is available with English and French closed captions.