Transporting hazardous materials by vessel within U.S. navigable waters is regulated under the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR). These rules ensure the safe and compliant movement of dangerous goods aboard both domestic and foreign-flagged commercial vessels.

Part 176 of the HMR establishes specific requirements for the carriage of hazardous materials by vessel, including loading, stowage, segregation, and handling procedures to prevent incidents during transport.

In addition to domestic regulations, the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code serves as a globally recognized framework for the maritime transport of hazardous materials. Under certain conditions, the IMDG Code may be used as an alternative to Part 176, provided that the requirements outlined in 49 CFR §§ 171.12 and 176.11 are also met.

Key governing regulations include:

• 49 CFR Part 176 – DOT Requirements for Hazardous Materials Carried by Vessel
• 49 CFR §§ 171.12 and 176.11 – Conditions for Using the IMDG Code
• IMDG Code – International standards for the marine transport of dangerous goods

This course fulfills the modal-specific training requirements for vessel carriers under Part 176 of the HMR.

Topics Covered

• Module Overview
• General Operating Requirements
• Handling and Stowage Requirements
• Segregation of Hazardous Materials
• Requirements for Explosives
• Requirements for Specific Materials