IMDG Code Updates

Amendment 36-12 of IMDG code finalized
Just in time for the Holidays

The IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee has adopted Resolution MSC.328(90) finalizing Amendment 36-12 which updates the Volumes 1 and 2 of the 2012 IMDG version. These changes become mandatory January 1, 2014. Implementations can be made in part or in whole on a voluntary basis from January 1, 2013 thru December 31, 2013. Amendment 36-12 includes revisions, and additions required for shipping specific substances. In particular, Part 7- Transport Operations has the most substantial changes.

Some of the key changes are as follows:

Stowage and segregation provisions including rules separating Cargo Transport Units (CTU) and Vessel Types (7.3, 7.4, 7.5, 7.6, and 7.7)
Foodstuffs segregation rules have eliminated the categories “away from” and “separated from” and now have specific storage distance requirements (3.0 meters) when Class 8 or Class 6.1 substances are being transported in the same CTU. (1.2.1)
Keep away from heat has now been changed to “Protected from sources of heat” (7.1.2). Specifically this indicates a distance of 2.4 meters away from heated ship structures. Also there is mention of protecting CTU’s stored on deck, from direct sunlight requiring them to be shaded.

10 new UN Numbers have been added to the Dangerous Good List and include:

UN 3498 Iodine Monochloride Liquid (a red liquid that reacts violently with water)
UN 3499 Capacitor (articles intended to store electrical energy)
6 new substances under UN 3500 Chemical Under pressure NOS, (Liquids, pastes or powders, pressurized with a propellant which meets the definition of a gas)
UN 3497, Krill meal” since krill meal has a chemical composition that is significantly different from that of fish meal
UN 3506, Mercury contained in manufactured articles
New section for Lithium Batteries has been added. (2.9.4)
Limited Quantities of Class 8, PG II, shipped in glass or fragile inners require rigid intermediate packaging (4.1.5)
Explosives categories have been reduced from 15 to 5, with new stowage requirements.

Errata and corrigenda for IMDG Code (inc. Amdt 36-12), 2012 Edition

https://www.thecompliancecenter.com/product-category/publications/imdg-code/