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IMDG Code: Shipping Dangerous Goods by Sea
Shipping Dangerous Goods by Sea
Online Training Certificate Course
From the highest rated and most trusted online training company - since 2008.
Get the most up-to-date IMDG Code training, reflecting the 2024 Edition (Amendment 42-24) that becomes mandatory on January 1, 2026.
This course is designed to familiarize you with the latest IMDG Code, a two-volume reference that outlines the provisions for the safe maritime transport of dangerous goods.
Fulfills IMDG Chapter 1.3 training requirements:
- General Awareness
- Function-Specific Training
- Security Awareness
Shipping dangerous goods by sea requires strict precautions. Hazardous materials can harm ecosystems, damage property, and pose both immediate and long-term health risks. To prevent these dangers, the maritime industry must pack, label, store, load, and document dangerous goods in full compliance with international safety standards. Learn more about completing the IMO Dangerous Goods Declaration here.
This updated training provides the most current IMDG Code instruction available, ensuring you are prepared for the latest international requirements before they take effect.
This course is intended for maritime and shipping professionals who are responsible for the preparation, handling, and transportation of hazardous materials by sea. This includes dockworkers, longshoremen, freight forwarders, container packers, port employees, and terminal operators who must comply with the provisions of the IMDG Code. Safety managers, compliance officers, and other land-based personnel involved in dangerous goods operations can also benefit from this training. Discover more about the benefits of IMDG online training in this detailed guide.
Case Study: On April 5, 1998, the Sea Land Mariner, sailing under the flag of the Marshall Islands, left the port of Singapore with a load of 1,500 containers. All dangerous goods were properly documented and stowed. Two weeks later, on the April 18, an explosion occurred in the number 7 hold as two fitters conducted routine maintenance in the area. Following the explosion, a fire began; it took nine more days to completely extinguish the fire. During the investigation into the cause of the explosion, it was discovered that the ship was carrying many containers listed as "Expandable Polystyrene, Self-Extinguishing." This product is a Class 9 - Miscellaneous good with the proper shipping name of POLYMERIC BEADS, EXPANDABLE (UN 2211). Not only were the goods incorrectly documented, but they were also improperly packaged and not placarded. As a result, flammable vapors built up in the unventilated holds in which these goods were stowed. Hot falling slag from the fitters' welding activities had ignited the vapors. The Maritime Administrator, Republic of the Marshall Islands, officially named improperly documented shipments and a lack of placarding as the reasons for the Sea Land Mariner explosion and fire.
Takeaway: Every potentially dangerous good must be checked against the IMDG Code by shippers and carriers alike. If a good is found listed on the DGL, all provisions relating to it must be carefully followed - this may be a matter of life and death.
Available languages: 100+ languages - translation provided by Google Translate (Select Language bottom of page)
Governing Regulations
The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, published by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), is the global standard for shipping hazardous materials by sea. The 2024 Edition (Amendment 42-24) replaces the 2022 Edition and becomes mandatory on January 1, 2026.
Key regulations include:
- International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code – 2024 Edition, Amendment 42-24
- U.S. DOT Hazardous Materials Regulations – 49 CFR §172
Individuals taking this course and working on U.S. or foreign vessels operating in the navigable waters of the United States also need our DOT Hazardous Materials General/Security Awareness and Function Specific (49 CFR §172) training.
If you don't already have a copy, you'll need to purchase the International Maritime Dangerous Goods IMDG Code both for reference purposes in your day-to-day shipping operations, and while taking this course.
What You'll Learn
Topics Covered
Lesson 1: Introduction to the IMDG Code
Lesson 2: IMDG Code, Part 1
Lesson 3: IMDG Code, Part 2
Lesson 4: IMDG Code Part 4
Lesson 5: IMDG Code Part 5
Lesson 6: IMDG Code Part 6
Lesson 7: IMDG Code Part 7
Lesson 8: IMDG Code Part 3, Introduction
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Understand the IMDG Code as it applies to responsibilities regarding the safe maritime transport of dangerous goods
- Define key terms and concepts related to the IMDG Code
- Learn how to use the IMDG Code book as a resource for information about the maritime transport of dangerous goods
- Identify required provisions for classifying, packaging, marking, stowing, and segregating dangerous goods
- Recognize the importance of following IMDG Code provisions in all aspects of maritime transport operations
- Describe the responsibilities of consignors and consignees with respect to the maritime shipment of dangerous goods
This course will take at least five (5) hours to complete, including the final exam, unless a different timeframe is specified in the course details. The learner may log on and off as needed. When they log back in, the course will return to where they left off.
The IMDG Code does not specify a required recertification schedule. However, HAZMAT employees on US and foreign vessels operating in the navigable waters of the United States must follow the retraining requirements in 49 CFR Part 176, Section 13 which requires retraining every three years.
Courses purchased through selected UK partners/third parties have a 14 day refund policy from the day of their purchase, providing the learner has not accessed/logged into their course(s).
Unless otherwise indicated in the course description, learners have 60 days from the date of enrollment to complete the training. During this time, participants can log out and back in to return to where they left off in the course. The only exception is the final exam, which must be completed in a single sitting.
Learners who do not complete the course within 60 days will have their enrollment disabled and will not be eligible for a refund. Please review our Terms & Conditions for details.
The IMDG Code does not specify a required recertification schedule. However, HAZMAT employees on U.S. and foreign vessels operating in the navigable waters of the United States must follow the retraining requirements in 49 CFR Part 176, Section 13, which requires retraining every three years.
In addition, learners should be aware of the IMDG Amendment Life Cycle. The Code is amended every two years:
- In even-numbered years, only the latest version is valid.
- In odd-numbered years, both the previous and new versions are valid, and either may be used.
This ensures that regulations remain aligned with international best practices and safety standards.
Courses purchased through selected UK partners/third parties include a 14-day refund policy from the date of purchase, provided the learner has not accessed or logged into their course(s).
