IMDG Code Amendment 42-24: Key Updates for Maritime Transport

IMDG Code Amendment 42-24: Key Updates for Maritime Transport

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has introduced Amendment 42-24 to the IMDG Code, bringing significant updates aimed at enhancing safety, streamlining regulations, and aligning with global transport standards. This latest amendment will impact shippers, freight forwarders, and shipping lines handling dangerous goods in maritime transport.

Implementation Timeline The new amendment is set to take effect on 1 January 2025 and will remain valid until 31 December 2027. During the transitional year of 2025, shippers will have the option to comply with either Amendment 41-22 or the new Amendment 42-24. However, starting from 2026, Amendment 42-24 will become mandatory for all shipments, making it essential for businesses to adapt their processes within the next year.

Scope of Changes Amendment 42-24 introduces more than 300 updates, including clarifications, new sections, and revisions to existing rules. Key updates include:

• Over 60 revisions to the Dangerous Goods List (DGL).
• The introduction of 11 new UN Numbers to cover emerging hazardous materials such as sodium-ion batteries and lithium-powered vehicles.
• More than 50 updates to packing instructions.
• Over 30 modifications to special provisions, including 14 additions and one deletion.

These comprehensive changes reflect the evolving landscape of dangerous goods transport and aim to ensure safer handling practices across the global supply chain.

Detailed Updates Some of the most notable updates in Amendment 42-24 include:

• Classification Changes: The amendment introduces new entries for organic peroxides and provides clearer exemptions for marine pollutants. These changes will affect the classification and transport of certain hazardous materials.
• Dangerous Goods List (DGL) Updates: Amendments to the DGL include new guidelines for carbon products, such as carbon blacks and charcoal. These products can no longer be exempt from the IMDG Code and will now require specific weathering, transport, and packing instructions.
• Special Provisions: New labeling requirements have been introduced for smoke-producing substances, highlighting potential corrosive or toxic inhalation hazards. Additionally, there is a clearer definition of the scope for UN 3171, ensuring better compliance.
• New UN Numbers: The amendment introduces several new UN Numbers to address emerging technologies and materials. These include entries for fire suppressant devices, sodium-ion batteries, and lithium/sodium battery-powered vehicles, such as the newly introduced UN 3556 for lithium-ion battery-powered vehicles.

Key Takeaways for Industry Stakeholders The introduction of Amendment 42-24 will have a direct impact on shipping operations involving dangerous goods. Businesses need to be aware of the following key points:

• Transition Period: The amendment is optional throughout 2025 but will become mandatory from 2026 onwards. Companies must take advantage of this transition period to update their policies and procedures.
• Action Required: Shippers must thoroughly review how these changes will affect their classification, documentation, packing, and transport operations to ensure full compliance with the updated IMDG Code. Failure to comply with the new regulations could result in shipment delays, fines, or other disruptions.

New Labeling Requirements and Special Provisions One of the critical areas of change involves labeling requirements. For example, smoke-producing substances now require labels that highlight their corrosive or toxic inhalation hazards. Additionally, clearer definitions for certain UN Numbers will provide better guidance for handling and transporting these materials.

Emerging Hazardous Materials Amendment 42-24 acknowledges the rapid development of new technologies by introducing new UN Numbers for substances like sodium-ion batteries and lithium/sodium battery-powered vehicles. These updates aim to address the growing use of these materials in the transport sector and ensure safer shipping practices.

Preparation for Compliance Industry stakeholders are urged to review the new amendment in detail and assess its implications for their operations. With the new amendment becoming mandatory in just over a year, early preparation is key to ensuring a smooth transition.

Training and Compliance Support To help businesses stay compliant with the latest IMDG Code revisions, various training programmes and tools are available. Organisations can access these resources to ensure their staff are up to date with the new regulations and equipped to handle dangerous goods safely and effectively.

For more information on the latest IMDG Code updates, visit the official IMO website or consult with accredited training providers. Additionally, tools like Hazcheck can help streamline compliance processes by providing up-to-date regulatory information and guidance.

Conclusion Amendment 42-24 represents a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and efficiency of dangerous goods transport by sea. By addressing emerging risks and updating key provisions, the IMO aims to enhance global shipping practices. Businesses involved in maritime transport must act promptly to review the new changes, update their compliance protocols, and prepare their operations for the mandatory adoption of Amendment 42-24 in 2026.

Stay informed on the latest maritime regulations and ensure your operations remain compliant to avoid potential disruptions in your shipping activities.

Download:  A42-24 Summary of Changes 

Download:  A42-24 Detailed Changes 

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