IMDG Shipping by Vessel: The DG Journal Part 6 of 6, IMDG Limited Quantities by Ocean Process

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Welcome to the sixth and final installment of Hazmat University’s DG Journal. Today we will discuss the IMDG shipping by vessel limited quantities (LQ) process, and the 16 steps to bear in mind when preparing these shipments. Read on for a step-by-step process for preparing limited quantity shipments. We advise you use this process, alongside the IMDG Code, to make sure that all of the relevant requirements for classification, identification, marking, labeling, packaging, and documentation are met.  

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1 16 Steps for IMDG Shipping by Vessel Process
2 DG Training for All Through Hazmat University

But remember, this guidance is NOT meant to replace the regulations.  As these regulations are updated often, please be sure to check regulatory references to determine if they affect your shipment before proceeding. 

16 Steps for IMDG Shipping by Vessel Process

  1. Determine if the substance is CLASSIFIED as a dangerous good in transportation.  Most shippers will use section 14 on the material’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS). If the material is a dangerous good, the proper shipping name and UN number most likely will be found there.  It may also be provided in the company’s shipping system.
    1. If the information is not listed on an SDS or in the shipping system, the hazard class/division must be determined by comparing the chemical characteristics of the materials with the classification criteria found in IMDG Part 2.
    2. If the information on the chemical characteristics of the material is not available, testing must be performed to determine the hazard class(es).
    3. This section may also provide information about whether the material is a HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE.  Check 49 CFR 172.101 Appendix A to see if the material or its components are listed.  If the material is being shipped at a quantity equal or above the listed RQ, the material is a hazardous substance and must be identified as such on the package and shipping document. 
  2. Check the Dangerous Goods List (IMDG 3.2 Columns 1 and 2) for the UN NUMBER and Proper SHIPPING NAME in all caps.  This is the name used to identify the material on the package and the dangerous goods documentation.  If special provision 274 or 318 is listed in Column 6, the technical name must be shown in parenthesis with the proper shipping name. 
    1. The Dangerous Goods List in the IMDG Code is sorted by UN Number.  If the UN number is not provided, look up the proper shipping name in the index at the end of Volume 2, then look up the UN number in the Dangerous Goods List.
  3. Note the PRIMARY AND SUBSIDIARY HAZARD CLASSES/DIVISIONS (Columns 3 and 4) and PACKING GROUP (Column 5) of the material.  If more than one packing group is listed, check the SDS to determine which packing group to apply.
  4. Determine if the material is FORBIDDEN from transported by ocean. (IMDG 1.1.3)
  5. Determine if the material is permitted to be transported as a LIMITED QUANTITY. Look at Column 7a.  If a “0” appears in the column, the material must not be shipped as a limited quantity. 
  6. If the material is not forbidden for transport as a limited quantity, determine the PACKAGE LIMITS in Column 7a for limited quantities.
  7. Determine if the material is a MARINE POLLUTANT by checking Column 4 (“P”), IMDG Chapter 2.10, and the List of Marine Pollutants 49 CFR 172.101 Appendix B. If the material is a marine pollutant, it must be identified as such on the package and shipping document.  
  8. Note the PACKING INSTRUCTION number in Column 8 and special packing provisions in Column 9. 
  9. Read all SPECIAL PROVISIONS listed in Column 6.  Special provisions are found in IMDG 3.3.
  10. Ensure the packaging complies with the general packing provisions and the specific provisions found in the packing instruction (IMDG Chapter 4.1).
  11. Prepare the PACKAGING following the packing instruction and the manufacturer’s closure instructions.
  12. MARK and LABEL the package as required. (IMDG Chapter 5.2)
  13. If preparing an OVERPACK, make sure to:
    1. Check Table 7.2.4 for segregation requirements, 
    2. Duplicate all labels and markings on the outside of the overpack, 
    3. Mark the outside of the overpack with the OVERPACK marking, and 
    4. Add the overpack identification mark if required. 
  14. Complete the DANGEROUS GOODS DOCUMENTATION. (IMDG Chapter 5.4)
  15. Provide appropriate EMERGENCY RESPONSE INFORMATION.  (49 CFR 171.22(g)(1))
  16. Offer PLACARDS to trucking company as required by 49 CFR 172 Subpart F and IMDG Chapter 5.3.

DG Training for All Through Hazmat University

Interested in learning more about the IMDG Limited Quantities by Ocean Process? Hazmat University makes it easy to learn about preparing DG goods for any mode of transport, for anyone, anywhere. Our team of hazmat professionals are seasoned educators and make compliance easier than ever for you and your organization. Whether you’re seeking to learn about IMDG Shipping by Vessel, IATA Shipping by Air, or 49 CFR Shipping by Ground- we have the course for you. Contact us today to get started, and get ready to be confident, be competent, and be compliant.

 

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