Stowage Provisions

Several terms relating to the subject of the shipboard stowage of dangerous goods are defined under 7.1.2. Most important is the definition of the term stowage: "the proper placement of dangerous goods on board a ship in order to ensure safety and environmental protection during transport." Stowage has five assigned codes, designated by the numerals 01 through 05 for Class 1 - Explosives and by uppercase letters A to E for Classes 2 through 9. These designations are used in column 16a of the Dangerous Goods List. (For example, see UN 1791 HYPOCHLORITE SOLUTION, which lists a stowage code of Category B.) Each of the lettered stowage categories designates the suitability of on-deck and under-deck stowage based on the number of passengers on board. Provisions are also set out for the stowage of various special situations.

Under 7.1.5, a series of more detailed stowage codes is provided. These are designated with the letters SW and a numeral, and they are listed in the DGL in column 16a under the category code. These codes outline specific stowage instructions. (For example, SW5 states "If under deck, stow in a mechanically ventilated space.") A final set of codes, referred to as handling codes, are designated with an H followed by a number. These codes are also listed in DGL column 16a, and guide the handling of dangerous goods in several specific situations. (For example, H2 states "Keep as cool as reasonably practicable.")

To learn more about IMDG visit our International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code Online Training web page.