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IMDG stowage codes
['Hazmat: Water']
- Stowage codes can be used along with stowage categories to identify additional requirements as needed for various dangerous goods.
Stowage codes identify additional requirements for the stowage of dangerous goods and can be used with the stowage categories. Stowage codes are recognized by the “SW” before a number and are generally used for individual substances. Column 16a of the Dangerous Goods List also displays the stowage code for each material.
| Stowage code | Description |
|---|---|
| SW1 | Protected from sources of heat. |
| SW2 | Clear of living quarters. |
| SW3 | Shall be transported under temperature control. |
| SW4 | Surface ventilation is required to assist in removing any residual solvent vapor. |
| SW5 | If under deck, stow in a mechanically vented place. |
| SW6 | When stowed under deck, mechanical ventilation shall be in accordance with SOLAS regulations for flammable liquids with a flashpoint below 23 Celsius. |
| SW7 | As approved by the competent authorities of the countries involved in the shipment. |
| SW8 | Ventilation may be required. The possible need to open hatches in case of fire to provide maximum ventilation and to apply water in an emergency, and the consequent risk to the stability of the ship through flooding of the cargo spaces, shall be considered before loading. |
| SW9 | Provide a good through ventilation for bagged cargo. Double strip stowage is recommended. During the voyage regular temperature readings shall be taken at varying depths in the hold and recorded. If the temperature of the cargo exceeds the ambient temperature and continues to increase, ventilation shall be closed. |
| SW10 | Unless carried in closed cargo transport units, bales shall be properly covered by tarpaulins or the like. Cargo spaces shall be clean, dry, and free from oil or grease. Ventilator cowls leading into the cargo space shall have sparking-preventing screens. All other openings, entrances and hatches leading to the cargo space shall be securely closed. During temporary interruption of loading, when the hatch remains uncovered, a fire-watch shall be kept. During loading or discharge, smoking in the vicinity shall be prohibited and fire-fighting appliances kept ready for immediate operation. |
| SW11 | Cargo transport units shall be shaded from direct sunlight. Packages in cargo transport units shall be stowed to allow for adequate air circulation throughout the cargo. |
| SW12 | Taking account of any supplementary requirements specified in the transport documents. |
| SW13 | Taking account of any supplementary requirements specified in the competent authority approval certificate(s). |
| SW14 | Category A only if the special stowage provisions of 7.4.1.4 and 7.6.2.8.4 are complied with. |
| SW15 | For metal drums, stowage category B. |
International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code Chapter 7 contains additional stowage codes.