Many incidents of accidents with dangerous goods on cargo ships highlight the importance of having well-trained personnel – and not only on board the ships.
The safe transport of dangerous goods via container ships begins long before the transportation from port A to port B. All individuals involved in the dangerous goods process, from personnel involved in classification, to those involved in packaging, and those involved in loading, must be trained regarding their roles and responsibilities. The IMDG Code refers to this as shore personnel.
What counts as dangerous goods in maritime transport?
Dangerous goods include any substances, objects, or mixtures that, due to their properties, pose a danger to people, the environment, or other goods during transportation on ships. These goods thus carry risks during sea transport, for example, due to their hazardous chemical, physical, or reactive properties.
Examples of dangerous goods:
- Flammable substances (e.g., gasoline or heating oil)
- Chemicals and corrosive liquids
- Gases like propane or pressurized gas cylinders
- Packaged bulk goods that are environmentally hazardous
- Explosive substances like fireworks
Strict regulations for the safe transport of these goods are set out in the IMDG Code.
Special challenges in the transport of dangerous goods by sea
Transporting dangerous goods by sea presents unique dangers and risks that are less prevalent in other modes of transportation like road or rail:
- Weather conditions: Storms and high waves can endanger the cargo. The typical up-and-down movements, as well as the side-to-side movements of a ship, are called pitching and rolling. Correct stowage and securing are essential here.
- Environmental hazards: In the event of an accident, dangerous substances may spill into the sea.
- Space limitations on ships: The limited storage space requires precise planning of packaging and efficient cargo securing.
- Emergencies on board: In case of an emergency, swift action is needed to minimize damage.
The IMDG Code: The legal foundation for safe dangerous goods transport at sea
The IMDG Code is an international convention that regulates the transportation of dangerous goods on ships. It is regularly updated to accommodate changes, new developments, and technical standards.
Key contents of the IMDG Code:
- Classification of dangerous goods based on the type of hazard (e.g., flammable liquids, gases).
- Requirements for the packaging and labeling of dangerous goods.
- Transport documents: Every dangerous good must be recorded with accurate details in the corresponding transport documents that accompany the transport.
- Rules for stowing and separation on ships.
The implementation of the IMDG Code into national law in Germany is governed by the Dangerous Goods Regulations for Sea Transport (GGVSee).
Safety requirements for dangerous goods transport in maritime traffic
Let’s take a closer look at the dangerous goods process in maritime transport. The process begins on land, with the IMDG Code referring to this as shore personnel. Dangerous goods are already prepared for sea transport by the shipper’s staff or a contracted company on land. Correct marking, labeling, and documentation are essential here. The packing of the container is another important step in the transport chain. A separate code, the CTU Code, applies here.
The goods are then delivered to the port by road. This is where transshipment occurs, i.e., the switch from truck to container ship.
Requirements for the shipper
Shippers of dangerous goods are responsible for, among other things:
- The correct classification of the goods (e.g., creating or verifying the safety data sheet)
- The proper packaging, labeling, and marking of the cargo according to the IMDG Code
- The issuance of the required transport documents (e.g., IMO Declaration or, when packing a container, the container packing certificate)
Packing a container according to the CTU Code
Proper packing of containers according to the CTU Code is crucial for safety in maritime transport. The CTU Code provides guidelines for packing cargo transport units (CTU means Cargo Transport Units). Improper loading can endanger not only the cargo itself but also the ship, crew, and environment. The CTU Code offers comprehensive guidelines to minimize such risks.
Topics covered include:
- Loading planning
- Container inspection
- Use of appropriate packaging
- Cargo securing
- Etc.
Loading and transport at sea
Transport planning is crucial for the safe delivery. The stowage rules according to the IMDG Code must be observed, containers should only be stacked to a certain weight limit, etc. Therefore, there are dedicated stowage and planning departments that organize the stowing and separation of goods on board. Other personnel ensure the cargo is secured against movement during rough seas.
Emergencies at sea
In the event of an accident, quick and effective emergency measures must be implemented:
- Emergency plans must be developed and trained.
- The crew must be prepared to handle dangerous goods.
- Accidents or leaks require rapid decisions to protect people and the environment.
The shipper is also obligated to note the EmS Code for each dangerous good on the transport document. The EmS guide provides the corresponding emergency response actions for these codes.
Skills and training for safe handling of dangerous goods at sea
To meet the requirements of the IMDG Code, all involved parties – from the dangerous goods officer to the personnel preparing the shipments – require regular training.
- Who needs training? All individuals involved in the dangerous goods process. This includes classification, packaging, labeling, stowing, and transportation on ships.
- How long is the certificate valid? Since the IMDG Code changes every two years, a refresher course is recommended every two years.
Training from SAFETY Training Plus
Our online training according to the IMDG Code provides the necessary knowledge to prepare dangerous goods for transport on ships. Topics include:
- Correct packaging and labeling of dangerous goods.
- Creating transport documents.
- Learning about exemptions.
- Practical knowledge for applying regulations and rules.