• The International Maritime Organization (IMO) created the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code to ensure safety when dangerous goods are transported by sea.
• The provisions of the IMDG Code apply to anyone who ships or transports dangerous goods by vessel in international waters.

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code was developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to enhance and harmonize the safe carriage of dangerous goods in international waters. The IMO also developed the IMDG Code as a way to help prevent pollution to the environment.

The IMDG Code is based on the UN Model Regulations, but also includes additional requirements applicable to the maritime transport of dangerous goods (such as requirements for marine pollutants, freight container loading procedures, stowage and segregation, and other requirements applicable to shipboard safety and preservation of the marine environment) that are not covered by the UN Model Regulations.

The provisions of the IMDG Code are applicable to anyone shipping or transporting dangerous goods by vessel in international waters. Anyone shipping or transporting dangerous goods by vessel within U.S. waters has the choice to follow the IMDG Code or the 49 CFR Hazardous Materials Regulations as the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) allows the use of the IMDG Code for transportation by vessel. In cases when it is unknown if the shipment will transit through international waters, it’s recommended to follow the provisions of the IMDG Code.