Dangerous Goods in Maritime Transport: Rules and Regulations

Maritime transport is an essential pillar of global trade, playing a crucial role in moving goods over long distances. From food and electronics, to chemicals, oil and other dangerous goods, the sea is the transportation route of choice for massive cargoes. However, transporting dangerous goods by sea poses significant risks to human safety, the environment and port infrastructure. That is why the transport of dangerous goods by sea is governed by strict international rules, which are essential to minimize risks and ensure safe and efficient global trade.

This article aims to explore the essential regulations and rules governing the transportation of dangerous goods by sea, emphasizing the importance of compliance with these regulations for the safety of navigation and the protection of the environment.

What are dangerous goods?

Dangerous goods are substances or objects which, because of their characteristics, may pose a significant risk to human health, public safety, infrastructure or the environment. They can be:

• Flammable (e.g. fuels, liquefied gases).
• Toxic or infectious (such as dangerous chemicals or pathogens).
• Corrosives (such as acids or alkaline solutions).
• Explosives (such as dynamite or materials used in the production of fireworks).
• Radioactive (materials that emit radiation).
• Dangerous for the environment (e.g. products that can pollute the seas or other ecosystems).

These substances can be solids, liquids or gases, and their transportation by sea requires strict measures to prevent accidents and negative environmental impacts.

International regulations for the maritime transport of dangerous goods

a) IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code)

The most important international regulation governing the transportation of dangerous goods by sea is the IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code). The IMDG Code is developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and is a set of rules governing the transport of dangerous goods by sea. The main purpose of the Code is to ensure the safe and efficient transportation of dangerous goods while protecting the ship's crew, the marine environment and port infrastructure.

The IMDG Code is applicable to all ships carrying dangerous goods, irrespective of their country of registration or ports of call, and covers a number of detailed requirements, including:

• Classification of dangerous goods: Goods are divided into 9 classes according to the hazard they pose. For example, Class 1 includes explosives, Class 3 flammable substances, Class 6 toxic and infectious substances, etc.
• Packaging and labeling of dangerous goods: Each type of dangerous goods must be packaged according to IMDG specifications to prevent leakage or damage during transport. Hazard labels must be affixed to packaging and containers to indicate the hazardous nature of the goods.
• Transport documentation: Any maritime transport of dangerous goods must be accompanied by appropriate documentation, such as the IMDG transport declaration, detailing the nature of the goods and the associated risks.
• Safety equipment: Vessels carrying dangerous goods must be equipped with safety devices such as fire-fighting equipment, smoke evacuation systems, personal protective equipment and emergency procedures for accident management.
• Crew training: Personnel on vessels carrying dangerous goods must be trained according to IMDG regulations. This includes training in the handling of dangerous goods, the use of safety equipment and emergency action in case of accidents or spills.

b) SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) Regulations

In addition to the IMDG Code, another key set of regulations influencing the transportation of dangerous goods by sea is the SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) Convention, also developed by the IMO. SOLAS is an international convention aimed at ensuring the safety of ships and their crews as well as the protection of the marine environment. Although SOLAS does not focus exclusively on the transportation of dangerous goods, it imposes requirements for ship construction, equipment safety and protection in the event of an accident, and has a significant impact on the transportation of hazardous substances.

c) MARPOL Convention (Marine Pollution)

Another key international regulation is the MARPOL Convention, which regulates the prevention of marine pollution from ships. This convention includes strict regulations on spills of hazardous substances, such as fuels or chemicals, and requires ships to adopt measures to prevent marine pollution, including the use of special equipment to prevent spills of dangerous goods during transportation.

Specific safety requirements for the transport of dangerous goods by sea

a) Classification and labeling of dangerous goods

Each dangerous good must be correctly classified in accordance with international regulations, and packaging must be labeled with clear symbols indicating the associated hazards. Hazard labels, for example, indicate whether a substance is flammable, toxic or corrosive. Correct labeling helps ship's crew and port authorities quickly identify potential risks in the event of an accident.

b) Packaging of dangerous goods

Correct packaging of dangerous goods is essential to prevent leakage or damage during transportation. IMDG regulations lay down strict rules on packaging materials and the quantities and types of packaging allowed for each type of dangerous goods. Mixing different hazardous substances in the same container must also be avoided to prevent dangerous chemical reactions.

c) Stowage and handling of cargo on the vessel

Dangerous goods must be stacked and handled carefully to prevent damage or accidents. Regulations specify precise procedures for loading and unloading, and handling equipment must be approved for dangerous goods. In addition, dangerous goods must be kept at a safe distance from sources of heat, radiation or combustible materials.

National regulations on the maritime transport of dangerous goods

Although most regulations are international, there are also national regulations specific to each country or region, which are often applicable to ships operating under that flag. These regulations may include additional rules on the handling and transportation of dangerous goods within a country's ports or territorial seas. In the European Union, IMDG regulations are implemented through national legislation, which imposes additional requirements for the safety of maritime transport.

Consequences of non-compliance

Failure to comply with the regulations on the transport of dangerous goods by sea can lead to serious accidents with consequences for the environment, human health and the safety of navigation. Companies that do not comply with these regulations can also be subject to significant fines, reputational damage and liability for damage caused to the environment or third parties.

The transportation of dangerous goods by sea is an essential but risky area which requires compliance with strict international and national regulations. The IMDG Code, together with the SOLAS and MARPOL Conventions, form the main legal framework for ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of these goods. Shipping companies need to be fully aware of the legal requirements and adopt appropriate security measures to protect the crew, the environment and port infrastructure. Compliance with these regulations can prevent the risk of accidents and contribute to safer and more responsible maritime trade.