IMDG Code: Stowage Provisions

Shipboard stowage of dangerous goods 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 (DGL). (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.

Furthermore, a series of more detailed stowage codes is provided. These are designated with the letters SW and a numeral, and they are also 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.")

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