SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage

IMDG Code Terminology

PSN and UN Number

Within each of the 9 hazard classes dangerous goods are uniquely identified by two pieces of
information:

• A four-digit number known as the UN Number which is

preceded by the letters UN.

• The corresponding Proper Shipping Name (PSN).

For example, kerosene is identified in the IMDG Code by its UN Number UN 1223 and the PSN Kerosene.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
IMDG Code Terminology

Packing Group

Classes 3, 4, 5.1, 6.1, 8 and 9 have been divided into three Packing Groups (PG): I, II or III.

• Indicates the degree of danger within the Classes and

• Specifies the standard of packaging.

PG I - denotes high danger and therefore requires the highest standard of packaging;
PG II - denotes medium danger;
PG III - denotes low danger.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
IMDG Code Terminology

Class label

Distinctive diamond-shaped labels (a square set at an angle of 45 degrees) to identify the Class by a
combination of color, Class number (in the bottom angle) and distinctive pictograms.

Subsidiary Risk label

Label or labels denoting additional significant risks. These are identical to class labels.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
IMDG Code Terminology

Cargo Transport Unit

Either a road freight vehicle, a railway freight wagon, a freight container, a road tank vehicle, a
railway tank wagon or a portable tank.

Placards

Are large labels, minimum size of 250 x 250mm or 400 x 400mm (for bulk containers).
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Recommendations on the Safe Transport, Handling and
Storage of Dangerous Substances in Port Areas
TERMINOLOGY:
1. Port authority – means any person or body of persons empowered to exercise effective control
in a port area.
2. Regulatory authority – means the national, regional or local authority empowered to make
legal requirements in respect of a port area and having powers to enforce the legal
requirements.
3. Responsible person – a person appointed by a shoreside employer or by the master of a ship
who is empowered to take all decisions relating to a specific task, having necessary current
knowledge and experience for the purpose and, where required is suitably certificated or
otherwise recognized by the regulatory authority
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Recommendations on the Safe Transport, Handling and
Storage of Dangerous Substances in Port Areas

• A reference published by the IMO aligned with

relevant IMO Codes and the IMDG Code in
particular.
• Created to harmonize the rules within the port
area with the ship in order to ensure smooth
operations and to avoid misunderstanding
between ship and shore.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
REQUIREMENTS COMMON TO ALL TRANSPORT CODES
Marking, Labeling and Placarding of dangerous goods as required by the IMDG Code
and DGs in limited quantities

The following general procedures apply to all modes of

transport:
1. Classify the goods according to criteria specified in the
relevant code or confirm the classification with the
manufacturer or importer of the goods.

2. Identify the Proper Shipping Name from the general

index or alphabetical list of dangerous goods in the
appropriate code.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
REQUIREMENTS COMMON TO ALL TRANSPORT CODES
Marking, Labeling and Placarding of dangerous goods as required by the IMDG Code
and DGs in limited quantities

3. Check if the goods can be transported and if special conditions apply – some goods are prohibited under
all circumstances. Others may require different packaging or the code may only allow smaller quantities.
It may be necessary to comply with more than one modal code or domestic legislation.

4. Check if different items can be placed in the same packaging, cargo transport unit (CTU), or large
package (segregation). Segregations requirements can be significantly different between the different
transport modes.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
REQUIREMENTS COMMON TO ALL TRANSPORT CODES
Marking, Labeling and Placarding of dangerous goods as required by the IMDG Code
and DGs in limited quantities

5. Select the correct packaging based on the Packing Instruction or Class and Packing Group (when
applicable) if the code does not provide Packing Instructions.

6. Mark and label the goods in accordance with the appropriate code usually
• UN number or Proper Shipping Name,
• Class label and Subsidiary Risk label (if required),
• Packing Group (if applicable)
• plus any additional marks required by the code such as marine pollutant, environmentally
hazardous or elevated temperature marks
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
REQUIREMENTS COMMON TO ALL TRANSPORT CODES
Marking, Labeling and Placarding of dangerous goods as required by the IMDG Code
and DGs in limited quantities

7. Provide a dangerous goods declaration stating the UN number, Proper Shipping Name, Class, the Packing
Group where applicable and the number and kind of packages.
Also provide flash point and Marine Pollutant if required. If not specifically required elsewhere on the
document, this information may be placed in the ‘additional information’ section.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
REQUIREMENTS COMMON TO ALL TRANSPORT CODES
Marking, Labeling and Placarding of dangerous goods as required by the IMDG Code
and DGs in limited quantities

8. Pack cargo transport units according to segregation requirements. Document container/vehicle eg

manifest (list goods) and provide a container/vehicle packing certificate.

9. Label Cargo Transport Unit with Class placards and UN number if required.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
PACKAGING
Appropriate packaging is vital in safely transporting dangerous goods. The entire UN Recommendations are based
on the philosophy that securely contained dangerous goods pose little, or acceptable risk, during transport.
Sea transport Maritime Rule states packaging must comply with the IMDG requirements.
The following organizations have delegated authority for the approval, inspection and testing of all portable tanks,
tank containers and freight containers:
• American Bureau of Shipping
• Bureau Veritas
• Det Norske Veritas
• Germanischer Lloyd
• Lloyd’s Register of Shipping
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
MARKING AND LABELING

All codes have similar marking and labeling requirements.

Labeling - specifically refers to Class label(s) and Subsidiary Risk
labels.
Marking - refers to the UN number (preceded by the letters ‘UN’)
and corresponding Proper Shipping Name eg ‘UN 2902 PESTICIDE,
LIQUID, TOXIC, N.O.S. (contains 80% drazoxolon)’.
Marks - these include special marks such as the orientation,
marine pollutant, environmentally hazardous and elevated
temperature marks.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage

SEGREGATION
The physical separation of incompatible goods helps safeguard against accidents by reducing the probability of an
adverse reaction between incompatible dangerous goods if containment is lost.

Stowage and segregation requirements for the different types of ships:

－ on deck only
－ on deck or under deck
－ away from
－ separated from
－ separated by a complete compartment or hold from
－ separated longitudinally by an intervening complete compartment or hold

ACTIVITY:
Explains with the aid of diagrams, the meaning of the following stowage and segregation
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage

SEGREGATION
Definitions of the segregation terms

Away from:

Effectively segregated so that the incompatible goods cannot interact

dangerously in the event of an accident but may be transported in the same
compartment or hold or on deck, provided a minimum horizontal separation
of 3 metres, projected vertically is obtained.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage

SEGREGATION

Separated from:

In different compartments or holds when stowed under deck.

Provided the intervening deck is resistant to fire and liquid, a
vertical separation, i.e. in different compartments, may be accepted
as equivalent to this segregation. For on deck stowage, this
segregation means a separation by a distance of at least 6 metres
horizontally.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage

SEGREGATION
Separated by a complete compartment or hold from:

Either a vertical or a horizontal separation. If the intervening decks are

not resistant to fire and liquid, then only a longitudinal separation, i.e. by
an intervening complete compartment or hold, is acceptable. For on
deck stowage, this segregation means a separation by a distance of at
least 12 metres horizontally. The same distance has to be applied if one
package is stowed on deck, and the other one in an upper compartment.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage

SEGREGATION

Separated longitudinally by an intervening complete compartment

or hold from:

Vertical separation alone does not meet this requirement.. Between a

package under deck and one on deck, a minimum distance of 24 m,
including a complete compartment, must be maintained longitudinally.
For on deck stowage, this segregation means a separation by a distance
of at least 24 metres longitudinally.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
DOCUMENTATION
The following information requirement is common for all modes and should be included for each dangerous
substance, material or article:
1. UN number (preceded by the letters ‘UN’).
2. The Proper Shipping Name.
3. The goods’ Class or Division (when assigned). Substances and articles of Class 1 (explosives) should be
followed immediately by the compatibility group letter.
4. The Packing Group (if assigned).
5. Number and type of packages.
6. Total quantity of dangerous goods covered by the description (by volume, mass, or net explosive content, as
appropriate).
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Things Deck Officers Must Know While Handling Packaged IMDG Cargo

As a deck officer who is in charge of cargo loading/ discharging and the overall safety of the cargo while it is carried
on ships, he must know the following points to avoid any kind of accidents that can cause because of such
sensitive cargo.

1. Know the Classification of Dangerous Cargo:

This avoids mistakes and proper preventive actions that can be taken in case of any incidence or accident.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Things Deck Officers Must Know While Handling Packaged IMDG Cargo

2. Check the Cargo for Correct Packaging

If the IMDG cargo is loaded in a package, ensure to check:

• Absorbing or cushioning material is used with the package containing liquid cargo, which must be competent
of absorbing the liquid in case of leakage
• The package is kept with sufficient ullage if liquid cargo is carried
• All cylinders carrying IMDG cargo are pressure tested and certified ok for use
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Things Deck Officers Must Know While Handling Packaged IMDG Cargo

3. Know the Cargo Groups

IMDG cargoes are divided in to three main groups and each has a specific plan to store, transport and handling in
case of accident or spill:
• Group 1: Cargo which are extremely dangerous
• Group 2: Cargo with moderate danger
• Group 3: Cargo with less danger
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Things Deck Officers Must Know While Handling Packaged IMDG Cargo

4. Check the Labels

Check that all the labels on the packages are visible and clearly indicate the type and characteristics of cargo.

Appropriate labels indicating the hazard (Flammable, toxic, Corrosive etc.) are also pasted over the package.

The label must be water resistant such that even in case of immersion, it should be readable for at least 3 months.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Things Deck Officers Must Know While Handling Packaged IMDG Cargo

5. Check the Documents of the Cargo

Ensure that before loading any IMDG cargo, the agent or shipper has handed over:
• The technical name of the cargo carried
• The declaration certificate saying cargo has been packed as per the IMDG code

RESEARCH:
1. What is an MSDS?
2. What are the information found on the MSDS?
3. Print out a sample MSDS of any Dangerous Good.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Things Deck Officers Must Know While Handling Packaged IMDG Cargo

6. Check When Loading Cargo

While loading the IMDG cargo, following things must be checked:

• Check the stowage plan and store the package as per the same
• No bunkering is going on or stopped during the time of loading
• The radar is put off, applicable for certain cargoes
• Check the packaging is weather tight
• Ensure there is no damage or leakage found during loading
• Before cargo operation, have a check on port regulation on IMDG cargo
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Things Deck Officers Must Know While Handling Packaged IMDG Cargo

7. Inspect Loading Explosive Cargo

If the IMDG cargo is with explosive label, ensure to check:

• The package is stored over a wooden pallet
• All the electrical fittings in that region are disconnected from the source
• All electrical wirings are sheathed properly
• The cargo is stowed away from accommodation and hot bulkhead
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Things Deck Officers Must Know While Handling Packaged IMDG Cargo

8. Know the Emergency Procedure

It is very important for the OOW to prepare himself for any kind of accidents while handling such dangerous cargo.
The deck officer must read and understand :
• Emergency procedure for ships carrying IMDG cargo
• MFAG-Medical First Aid Guide for accidents involving IMDG cargo
• Risk associated with cargo by understanding the labels

RESEARCH:
What is MFAG and its purpose?
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Things Deck Officers Must Know While Handling Packaged IMDG Cargo

These are some of the important points that must be considered while handling dangerous cargoes on board
ships.

However, special attention must also be given to the instructions that are provided
by the manufacturers and the company.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
10 Important Things Deck Officers Must Check During Cargo Watch

1. Plan and Monitor Loading and Discharging of Cargo

2. Have Knowledge of IMDG Containers Loaded Onboard

IMO recognized International Maritime Dangerous Goods are carried in containers onboard the vessels
designated to carry them. As the name depicts, IMDG containers should be treated with utmost
significance. The paper works and documentation of IMDG cargo including IMDG Spotting Plan is the
responsibility of the deck officers, therefore a good familiarization of IMDG Code is strongly
recommended.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
10 Important Things Deck Officers Must Check During Cargo Watch

3. Handle Reefer Containers With Care

Reefers or the Refrigerated Containers are very sensitive cargo and hence should be handled with care.

4. Check Lashings Of Out of Gauge Cargo (OOG)

OOG means cargos which are not suitably fitted inside a container. Such cargo can be heavy machinery,
spare parts, boats, yachts etc. OOG are usually loaded under deck inside the cargo hold. It can also be
loaded on-top of flat rack containers, or by using wooden dunnage.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
10 Important Things Deck Officers Must Check During Cargo Watch

5. Have Proper Visual Inspection of Ship’s Draught

It is nothing new that arrival draughts and departure draughts needs to be visually checked and logged
down. The significance of draught not only applies during arrival and departure, but also during the
whole period of time when the ship is alongside.

6. Check Ship’s Ballast and List

It is normally the Chief Officer who is responsible for the ballast operations and the stability of the
vessel. At the same time duty officers are required to have comprehensive knowledge about ballast
operations and will be required to do so, as per chief officer’s advice.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
10 Important Things Deck Officers Must Check During Cargo Watch

7. Check Lashings Thoroughly

Lashing is another vital factor which needs to be checked during cargo watches. It is the duty officer’s
responsibility to ensure every lashing is found satisfactory. A good understanding of the vessel’s lashing
plans and lashing gears is absolutely necessary.

8. Carry Out Change of Watch Procedure Without Missing Anything

Change of watch during port stays is as important as it is at sea. The relieving officer should be officially
handed over with all the necessary information of the progress on deck, cargo operations, and ballast
operations in detail.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
10 Important Things Deck Officers Must Check During Cargo Watch

9. Ensure Utmost Level of Security and Safety On board Ship

Another significant element in the port stay is the ISPS policies. Security rounds and gangway watches
are kept at all the times during the vessels port stay.

10. Carry Out Cargo Completion Without Errors

This final phase of the port stay can be a busy one. When the cargo completion comes on your watch you
have to be sure of the count of moves left.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Publications and References with regards to carrying
Dangerous Substances:
• Recommendations on the Safe Transport, Handling and Storage of Dangerous
Substances in Port Areas

• The Emergency Response Procedures for Ships Carrying Dangerous Goods Guide

• Medical First Aid Guide for Use in Accidents Involving Dangerous Goods (MFAG)

• Material Safety Data Sheet

 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Recommendations on the Safe Transport, Handling and
Storage of Dangerous Substances in Port Areas

• A reference published by the IMO aligned with

relevant IMO Codes and the IMDG Code in
particular.
• Created to harmonize the rules within the port
area with the ship in order to ensure smooth
operations and to avoid misunderstanding
between ship and shore.
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Recommendations on the Safe Transport, Handling and
Storage of Dangerous Substances in Port Areas
TERMINOLOGY:
1. Port authority – means any person or body of persons empowered to exercise effective control in a
port area. He can refuse dangerous substances if it is considered that their presence would endanger
life or property because of:
• their condition
• the condition of their containment
• the condition of their mode of conveyance
• conditions in the port area
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Recommendations on the Safe Transport, Handling and
Storage of Dangerous Substances in Port Areas
TERMINOLOGY:
Port authority (cont…)
• If any dangerous substance constitutes an unacceptable hazard, the port authority should be able to
order the removal of such substance or any ship, package, container, portable tank or vehicle
containing it
• The port authority will normally require notification at least 24 hours in advance of the transport or
handling of dangerous substances, including those which are not for discharge at that port
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Recommendations on the Safe Transport, Handling and
Storage of Dangerous Substances in Port Areas
TERMINOLOGY:
2. Regulatory authority – means the national, regional or local authority empowered to make
legal requirements in respect of a port area and having powers to enforce the legal
requirements.

Regulatory authority may require signals to be shown while transporting or handling

dangerous substance:
• by day, flag ‘B‘ of the International Code of Signals
• by night, an all-round fixed red light
 SEAM 3 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Recommendations on the Safe Transport, Handling and
Storage of Dangerous Substances in Port Areas
TERMINOLOGY:
3. Responsible person / Designated person – a person appointed by a shoreside employer or by
the master of a ship who is empowered to take all decisions relating to a specific task, having
necessary current knowledge and experience for the purpose and, where required is suitably
certificated or otherwise recognized by the regulatory authority

The Designated Port Officer should be empowered to:

• direct when and where a ship having any dangerous substances on board may anchor, moor or
berth
• direct a ship to be moved within or to leave the port area
• attach conditions appropriate to local circumstances and the quantity and nature of the
dangerous substances
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
The Emergency Response Procedures for Ships Carrying Dangerous Goods Guide -
Emergency Schedule (EmS)

• Contains guidance on Emergency Response Procedures for Ships Carrying Dangerous Goods including
the Emergency Schedules (EmS) to be followed in case of incidents involving dangerous substances,
materials or articles, or harmful substances (marine pollutants), regulated under the International
Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code).

• It provides guidance for dealing with fires and spillages (leakages) on board ships involving the
dangerous goods listed in the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code).
 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Medical First Aid Guide for Use in Accidents Involving
Dangerous Goods (MFAG)
• Information on medical first aid is provided in the IMO/WHO/ILO Medical First Aid Guide for use
in accidents Involving dangerous Goods (MFAG), which is the chemicals supplement to the
International Medical guide for ships (IMGS) which is published by the World Health Organization
(WHO), Geneva.

• The Guide is reproduced in the Supplement of the IMDG Code.

 SEAM 4 - Cargo Handling and Stowage
Medical First Aid Guide for Use in Accidents Involving
Dangerous Goods (MFAG)
A safety data sheet (SDS), material safety data sheet (MSDS), or product safety data sheet (PSDS) is an
important component of product stewardship and occupational safety and health.
It is intended to provide workers and emergency personnel with procedures for handling or working with
that substance in a safe manner, and includes information such as:
• physical data •reactivity,
(melting point, boiling point, flash point, etc.), •storage,
• toxicity, •disposal,
• health effects, •protective equipment, and
• first aid, •spill-handling procedures.
SDS formats can vary from source to source within a country depending on national requirements.