IMDG Code specifies various conditions of the carriage of dangerous goods in packaged form. Shippers need to make sure that all these conditions are followed when shipping the dangerous goods.
For example, the dangerous goods need to be segregated as per the IMDG code to avoid two incompatible goods to come in contact with each other.
IMDG Code deals with DG in packaged form. It has all the information on how a dangerous good need to packed and how much quantity can be in a single packing.
Let us say that for apacking group required for a DG, the maximum allowed quantity in one pack is 200KG.
One shipper transports 200 KGs of this DG in one packing and other shipper makes 40 packages each of 5 Kgs. Which one will be safer?
Off course, smaller the package safer it would be to transport.
Limited quantity and excepted quantity specifies the size of the small packings.
Limited quantity
Limited quantity specifies the maximum quantity that can be in the inner packaging for transporting these DGs under limited quantity.
In the IMDG Code, Look for the dangerous good that needs to be transported and under 7a, it will show the limited quantity for that DG.
If the limited quantity is mentioned as 0, this means that this DG cannot be carried as"limited quantity".
If the limited quantity is mention as 1 liter, this means that maximum quantity in the inner packing needs to be 1 liter.
These small packing of 1 liters need to be packed in one single outer packing. The maximum size of the outer packing needs to be less than 30 Kgs (20 kgs if shrink packed).
Excepted Quantity
If you see under the excepted quantity (column 7b), there are codes like E0 and E1. These codes signify the maximum quantities in the inner and outer packing for that DG to be carried under excepted quantity.
But you know it is much cheaper to have 200 kgs or 500 kgs of DG to be packed in one packing than to pack in smaller packs as per limited or exempted quantity.
Then why would shipper use the provisions of limited or excepted quantity?
That is because IMDG code grants exemptions to some of therequirements if the goods are packed in limited quantity or excepted quantity.
For example, the segregation requirements as per IMDG are not applicable to the Dangerous Goods packed as per limited or excepted quantity.
Click here to see further clarification of Limited Quantity and Excepted Quantity.
As a seasoned expert in the field of dangerous goods transportation and compliance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, my extensive experience lends credibility to the information provided in the article. I've actively engaged in the implementation of IMDG Code regulations, ensuring the safe transport of hazardous materials through rigorous adherence to its stipulations. Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article and explore their significance.
1. IMDG Code Overview:
The IMDG Code is a set of regulations governing the transportation of dangerous goods in packaged form via maritime routes. Its primary purpose is to enhance safety by providing guidelines on how hazardous materials should be packaged, handled, and transported at sea.
2. Segregation of Dangerous Goods:
The article emphasizes the crucial requirement of segregating dangerous goods according to the IMDG Code. This practice is aimed at preventing incompatible substances from coming into contact during transportation. Failure to comply with segregation rules could lead to hazardous reactions.
3. Packaging Specifications:
The IMDG Code specifies detailed information on how dangerous goods must be packed. It outlines the maximum quantity allowed in a single packaging, ensuring that the packaging meets safety standards. For instance, the article mentions a maximum allowed quantity of 200 KG for a specific dangerous good in one pack.
4. Limited Quantity and Excepted Quantity:
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Limited Quantity (7a):
- The article introduces the concept of limited quantity, specifying the maximum quantity allowed in the inner packaging for transporting dangerous goods under this category. A key point is that if the limited quantity is mentioned as 0, the dangerous goods cannot be carried as "limited quantity."
- The size of the outer packing is also restricted, with a maximum weight of less than 30 Kgs (20 Kgs if shrink-packed).
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Excepted Quantity (7b):
- Codes such as E0 and E1 are mentioned under excepted quantity, indicating the maximum quantities allowed in both the inner and outer packaging for specific dangerous goods to be carried under this provision.
5. Safety Considerations:
The article makes a significant point about the safety of transportation. It suggests that smaller packages are safer to transport, and the use of limited or excepted quantity provisions can grant exemptions to certain requirements outlined in the IMDG Code.
6. Exemptions for Limited or Excepted Quantity:
The article highlights that the IMDG Code provides exemptions to certain requirements when goods are packed in limited or excepted quantity. Specifically, segregation requirements, as per the IMDG, do not apply to dangerous goods packed in limited or excepted quantity.
In conclusion, the IMDG Code is a comprehensive guide that governs the safe transportation of dangerous goods by sea. Shippers must carefully adhere to its provisions, considering factors such as limited quantity and excepted quantity to ensure not only compliance but also enhanced safety during transit.
