International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code Amendment 42-2 comprises the newest revision to the IMDG Code, formally adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) under Resolution MSC.556(108). Although the updated Code has been available on a voluntary basis from 1 January 2025, full mandatory implementation is scheduled for 1 January 2026.
Background and Regulatory Context
The IMDG Code is the global standard governing the safe transport of dangerous goods by sea, aimed at protecting crew members, vessels, and the marine environment. It is adopted under SOLAS (the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea) and regularly updated to align with the UN Model Regulations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods and evolving industry practices.
Amendment 42-24 replaces the previous edition in its entirety. This comprehensive update reflects the IMO’s continuing efforts to improve safety, clarify technical requirements, and expand the scope of applicable dangerous goods entries and handling protocols.
Key Changes and Additions
New and Revised Dangerous Goods Entries
The amendment introduces several new UN numbers and shipping names, particularly to reflect technological advances and new classes of cargo:
- UN 3556 – Vehicle, lithium ion battery powered
- UN 3557 – Vehicle, lithium metal battery powered
- UN 3558 – Vehicle, sodium ion battery powered
Additional hazardous substances such as UN 0514 fire suppressant devices, UN 3553 disilane, UN 3554 gallium in manufactured articles, UN 3555 trifluoromethyl-tetrazole sodium salt in acetone, UN 3559 fire suppressant devices (Class 9), and UN 3560 tetramethylammonium hydroxide aqueous solution have also been added.
Battery-Related Safety Enhancements
Reflecting the rapid growth in electric vehicles and portable power systems, the Code now includes enhanced provisions for lithium and sodium ion batteries, including updated testing, documentation, and marking requirements. Definitions and special provisions (e.g., SP961, SP962, SP404, SP977) now expressly integrate these battery types to improve clarity and hazard control.
Carbon and Charcoal Regulatory Changes
Carbon materials such as charcoal (UN 1361) and activated carbon (UN 1362) have been substantially revised:
- Previous special provisions applicable to carbon have been deleted and replaced with Special Provisions SP978 and SP979.
- These provisions impose stricter conditions on declaration, packaging, stowage, traceability, and temperature documentation, including the requirement to record date of production, date of packaging, and packing temperature on the transport document.
Stowage and Documentation Improvements
The amendment enhances operational safety by mandating that stowage plans, when used in lieu of a special list or manifest, must identify primary and subsidiary hazard classes — an improvement that strengthens hazard awareness and on-board risk assessment.
Implementation Timeline
The IMDG Code’s 2024 Edition, inclusive of Amendment 42-24, was published and made available for voluntary application from 1 January 2025. It becomes mandatory under SOLAS from 1 January 2026. During the voluntary period, operators and shippers may comply with either the previous edition or the new amendments, but full adherence to the updated provisions is required by the mandatory date.
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Source: Britannia P&I
