The goal of the IMDG Code is to enhance the safe transport of dangerous goods by sea and protect the marine environment. With this, the code is updated to ensure that it keeps up with the rapid expansion of the shipping industry. The IMDG Code, 2018 Edition (incorporating Amendment 39-18) comes into force on January 1, 2020 for two years, but may be applied voluntarily from January 1, 2019. Now available for purchase (includes 2 Volume Set).

What's in it

The IMDG Code lays down basic principles: detailed recommendations for individual substances, materials, and articles, and a number of recommendations for good operational practice including advice on terminology, packing, labeling, stowage, segregation, and handling, and emergency response action.

Who uses it

Although the information in the code is directed primarily at the mariner, its provisions affect a range of industries and services: manufacturers, packers, shippers, feeder services such as road and rail, and port authorities will find reliable advice on terminology, packing, labeling, classification, stowage, segregation, and emergency response action.

IMDG Code, 2018 Edition

IMO Product Code: IL200E*

(Incorporating Amendment 39-18)

Here is the summary of the key changes:

• Harmonized with the update to Model regulations, 20th edition
• Throughout the text there is a change from 'risks' to now read 'hazards'. Column 4 of the DGL now reads 'subsidiary hazard(s)'
• New 2.0.6 and UN Numbers 3537 to 3548 covering 'ARTICLES CONTAINING DANGEROUS GOODS'
• Viscous liquids exemption in 2.3.2.5 now aligns with ADR and RID limit for packages, 30L to 450L
• Classification of corrosives chapter 2.8 overhauled and extensively updated to align with GHS texts
• There have been a couple of amendments to the subdivisions of class 9 in 2.9.2.2 and the relevant new class 9 entries added

Volume 1 (parts 1, 2, 4, 5, 6 and 7 of the Code) contains sections on:

• general provisions, definitions and training
• classification
• packing and tank provisions
• consignment procedures
• construction and testing of packagings, IBCs, large packagings, portable tanks, MEGCs and road tank vehicles
• transport operations

Also available is the IMDG Code Supplement, 2018 Edition, containing several related texts such as the EmS Guide and MFAG. IMO Product Code: IJ210E*

IMDG Code for Windows v14 (2018)

CD: IMO Sales No. DL200E

Download: IMO Sales No. ZL200E

Features unique to the IMDG code for Windows include:

• Search by substance or UN Number
• Multiple windows (MDI) for viewing multiple pages or substances
• On-screen color display of hazard labels, signs and marks
• Search by names in French and Spanish substance indexes
• Easy generation and saving of a Dangerous Goods Note
• Easy-to-use menus, on-screen user manual, as well as help screens
• Printing facility and downloading
• Single-user or network versions
• Includes the IMDG Code Supplement, 2018 Edition

IMDG Code for the Intranet

IMO Product Code: D201E

This product is designed for large corporate intranets: local, regional and global.

IMDG Code on the Web

IMO Product Code: S200E

This is the English language IMDG Code exactly as on the IMDG Code for Windows except for Dangerous Good Note generation. It is available online on annual subscription.

IMDG Code e-reader version

IMO Product Code: KL200E*

The e-reader version is an exact copy of the printed title. It is presented in EBK format and includes the following features:

• Installation available without internet access
• Multiple advanced search facilities
• Add your own annotations, copy and paste, printing

Who does the IMDG Code 39-18 apply to?

The IMDG Code is the global, international reference for shipping dangerous goods by maritime vessel on the water. It is required for anyone shipping dangerous goods by water and features updates and revisions regarding packaging and storage requirements for all regulated hazardous materials.

Who needs to have the IMDG Code 39-18?

Although the information in the code is directed primarily at the mariner, its provisions affect a range of industries and services: manufacturers, packers, shippers, feeder services such as road and rail, and port authorities will find reliable advice on terminology, packing, labeling, classification, stowage, segregation, and emergency response action. 

Where can you find it?

Contact us here at American Nautical Services to receive your copy of the IMDG Code 39-18 (2018 Edition) 2 Volume Set or you can order it online with us.

*Also available in French and Spanish.