The transport of dangerous goods is an essential part of global trade - but also a major safety challenge. Without strict regulations, incidents involving hazardous materials can lead to catastrophic consequences, including shipboard fires, environmental disasters, and loss of life.
To mitigate these risks, the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code was developed. It has been a cornerstone of maritime safety for decades, ensuring the safe transport of hazardous substances worldwide. With Amendment 42-24 set to become mandatory on January 01, 2026, businesses involved in shipping dangerous goods have to prepare for these new regulations.
But what exactly is the IMDG Code? Who is responsible for it? And how has it improved global shipping safety? This article explores these questions while outlining what the latest updates mean for the industry.
What is the IMDG Code?
The IMDG Code is a set of internationally recognized regulations governing the transport of dangerous goods by sea. It provides:
- Classification of hazardous materials into nine major classes, including explosives, gases, flammable liquids, and toxic substances
- Packaging and labeling requirements to ensure cargo is properly contained and easily identifiable
- Documentation and communication requirements
- Stowage and segregation rules to prevent chemical reactions or dangerous interactions between different materials
- Emergency response guidance to help crew members react effectively in case of an incident
The IMDG Code applies to almost all countries engaged in maritime trade, as it is referenced by national regulations and required under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).
Who Oversees the IMDG Code?
The International Maritime Organization (IMO), a specialized United Nations agency, is responsible for maintaining and updating the IMDG Code. Since its establishment in 1958, the IMO has worked to enhance maritime safety, reduce pollution risks, and harmonize global transport regulations.
Every two years, the IMO updates the IMDG Code to incorporate new safety research, technological advancements, and lessons learned from past incidents. The latest version, Amendment 42-24, was adopted in 2024 and will become mandatory in 2026.
Learn more about the IMO and its role in maritime safety: www.imo.org
Why the IMDG Code Matters: A Proven Track Record in Safety
Before the IMDG Code, maritime shipping faced frequent and severe incidents due to poorly regulated dangerous goods transport. Fires, explosions, and chemical spills posed significant threats to crews, cargo, and the environment.
Since its implementation, the IMDG Code has led to:
- Fewer shipboard fires caused by misdeclared or improperly stored dangerous goods
- Safer working conditions for seafarers handling hazardous materials
- Reduced environmental damage from cargo spills or container fires
- Better emergency preparedness through standardized response protocols
For example, a study by the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) found that strict compliance with the IMDG Code significantly reduces fire risks aboard container ships. Furthermore, reports from the TT Club (a leading transport and logistics insurer) highlight that 80% of cargo-related incidents at sea involve misdeclared or improperly packed dangerous goods—risks that the IMDG Code aims to minimize.
Read EMSA’s latest findings on maritime safety: www.emsa.europa.eu
IMDG Code Amendment 42-24: What’s Changing?
Amendment 42-24 aligns the IMDG Code with the 23rd revised edition of the UN Model Regulations on hazardous materials. While some updates are routine, others specifically address risks seen in recent maritime incidents.
Key Changes in Amendment 42-24:
- New stowage and segregation rules to prevent chemical reactions between incompatible substances
- Updated regulations on lithium-ion batteries, a cargo type linked to multiple container ship fires
- Stronger guidelines for charcoal shipments, which have caused significant ship fires due to spontaneous combustion risks
