IMDG (International Maritime Dangerous Goods) Training

Q: What is the maritime IMDG Code?

The maritime IMDG Code (International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code) is an international set of regulations that governs the safe transport of dangerous goods by sea. It sets rules for how hazardous materials must be classified, packaged, labelled, documented, handled and stowed on ships to protect people, cargo and the marine environment.

Q: What document must accompany dangerous goods when transported by sea?

Dangerous goods transported by sea must be accompanied by a Dangerous Goods Declaration, which confirms the goods have been correctly classified, packaged, labelled and documented in accordance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) regulations .

Q: Who needs IMDG training?

IMDG training is required for anyone involved in preparing, handling, packing, documenting or managing dangerous goods shipments transported by sea.

Q: Who delivers the IMDG training?

The training is delivered by a fully qualified Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser (DGSA) with specialist expertise in the transport of hazardous materials and the application of IMDG regulations.

Q: Does the course meet IMDG training requirements?

Yes. The course is designed to meet the training requirements set out within the IMDG Code and supports organisations in maintaining compliance with international dangerous goods regulations for maritime transport.

Q: Do all shipments containing hazardous materials require IMDG compliance?

Yes. Any shipment classified as dangerous goods must comply with IMDG regulations when transported by sea.

Q: How often must IMDG training be refreshed?

IMDG training typically needs to be refreshed every two years to ensure compliance with regulatory updates and industry best practice.

Q: Is the training interactive?

Yes. The course includes interactive worksheets and practical exercises designed to support an engaging learning experience and help participants apply IMDG requirements in real-world scenarios.

Q: Can the training be delivered at our premises?

Yes. Training can be delivered onsite at your premises or remotely online. Onsite delivery allows the course to be tailored to your organisation’s specific operations, goods types and procedures.

Q: Is the training customised to our business needs?

Yes. When delivered onsite, the course can be adapted to reflect your specific dangerous goods, working practices and operational requirements, ensuring the training is directly relevant to your organisation.

Accredited | Nationwide & Onsite Delivery | Full & Refresher Courses Available

Total Compliance provides professional IMDG training courses for organisations involved in the transport of dangerous goods by sea. Our courses are designed to help businesses meet regulatory obligations while ensuring shipments are prepared, handled and transported safely.

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code sets international standards for the classification, packaging, labelling, documentation, handling and stowage of hazardous materials in maritime transport. Proper training is essential for maintaining compliance, preventing incidents, and protecting people, cargo and the environment.

We offer both full IMDG training and refresher courses, with flexible delivery options including onsite training at your premises delivered by a fully qualified Dangerous Goods Safety Adviser (DGSA)

Why Choose Total Compliance for IMDG Training?

Delivered by experienced dangerous goods specialists
Trainers hold recognised DGSA, IMDG and IATA qualifications
Over 20 years of industry experience
Courses aligned with current IMDG Code requirements
Interactive, practical training using real-world scenarios
Training tailored to your specific operations and goods
Delivered onsite nationwide for maximum convenience

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Testimonials

IMDG Full Course

Duration: 2-days
Delivery: On-site at your premises or remotely online
Certificate: Total Compliance IMDG Certificate (valid for 2 years)

Overview

This course is designed for individuals who need to gain a full understanding of IMDG requirements or add maritime transport to their existing dangerous goods qualifications. It provides comprehensive training in the regulations governing the safe transport of dangerous goods by sea.

Who is it for?

Suitable for personnel involved in preparing, handling or managing dangerous goods shipments, including:

Consignors and shippers
Freight forwarders and logistics staff
Warehouse and packing teams
Supervisors and managers
Production and laboratory personnel

What's included?

A Total Compliance IMDG certificate valid for 2 years
A complimentary toolbox talk or regulatory update is provided every 6 months following course completion

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IMDG Refresher Course

Duration: 1-day
Delivery: On-site at your premises or remotely online
Certificate: Total Compliance IMDG Refresher Certificate (valid for 2 years)

Overview

This course is for individuals who already hold an IMDG qualification and need to renew their certification. It ensures participants remain up to date with regulatory changes, best practices and current compliance requirements.

Who is it for?

Suitable for personnel who are already IMDG qualified and involved in preparing, handling or managing dangerous goods shipments, including:

Consignors and shippers
Freight forwarders and logistics staff
Warehouse and packing teams
Supervisors and managers
Production and laboratory personnel

The refresher is appropriate for anyone whose IMDG certificate is approaching expiry or has recently expired and who needs to maintain their competence in maritime dangerous goods compliance.

What's included?

A Total Compliance IMDG certificate valid for 2 years
A complimentary toolbox talk or regulatory update is provided every 6 months following course completion

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What Topics are Covered in Detail, During the IMDG Courses?

This IMDG training provides a complete grounding in the safe and compliant transport of dangerous goods by sea. It covers the practical application of IMDG regulations, from classification and packaging through to documentation, labelling, stowage and safety procedures.

Designed for real-world use, the course equips participants with the knowledge and confidence to handle dangerous goods correctly and meet regulatory requirements.

The IMDG courses cover the following topics:

1. Comprehensive Understanding of IMDG Regulations:
Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of the IMDG dangerous goods regulations. The course provides a thorough exploration of the regulations and their application in real world scenarios.

2. Proper Use of Regulations:
The training focuses on the correct utilisation of the IMDG regulations. Participants will learn how to interpret and apply the regulations accurately to ensure compliance in the transportation of dangerous goods by sea.

3. Goods Classification:
The course covers the classification of goods according to the UN Hazard Classes. Participants will learn about packing groups and proper shipping names, enabling them to accurately identify and classify dangerous goods.

4. UN Packaging Scheme:
From small packaging’s to tanks, participants will gain knowledge about the UN Packaging Scheme. The training will explore the appropriate packaging methods and requirements for different types of dangerous goods to ensure safe transportation.

5. Marking, Labelling, and Documentation:
Participants will learn the correct procedures for marking and labelling packages containing dangerous goods. The course also covers the necessary documentation, such as shipping papers and other relevant paperwork, ensuring compliance with regulations.

6. Health and Safety in Dangerous Goods Transportation:
The training emphasises the importance of health and safety practices in the transportation of dangerous goods. Participants will gain insights into measures and protocols that promote the safe transport and handling of hazardous materials.

7. Segregation and Stowage:
Participants will learn about the principles of segregation and stowage when dealing with dangerous goods. The training will cover best practices for proper segregation of incompatible goods and appropriate stowage to minimise risks during transport.

By covering these topics comprehensively, the IMDG courses equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for the safe and compliant transportation of dangerous goods by sea.

What are the Learning Outcomes of the IMDG Courses?

By the end of this training, participants will have the knowledge and practical skills needed to work confidently with IMDG regulations. They will be able to correctly classify dangerous goods, apply packaging and documentation requirements, and follow safe handling, segregation and stowage practices in line with international standards.

This enables organisations to reduce compliance risks, improve operational accuracy and support safer transport practices.

Learning Outcomes of the IMDG Courses:

Interpret IMDG Requirements
Confidently locate and understand relevant provisions within the IMDG Code.
Determine Compliance Requirements
Identify the regulatory steps needed to ship dangerous goods legally by sea.
Classify Dangerous Goods Accurately
Assign correct hazard classes, packing groups and proper shipping names.
Select Appropriate Packaging
Choose compliant packaging based on IMDG packaging instructions.
Prepare Compliant Shipments
Apply correct marking, labelling and documentation requirements.
Apply Safe Handling Practices
Recognise risks and implement appropriate safety measures.
Ensure Correct Segregation and Stowage
Determine how dangerous goods must be separated and stored during transport.

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IMDG Training Courses
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UK-Wide IMDG Training – Onsite or Online

Total Compliance delivers professional IMDG training to businesses and organisations across the UK. Our experienced dangerous goods specialists help ensure your staff understand and correctly apply the regulations governing the safe transport of hazardous materials by sea.

We offer flexible delivery options, including remote online IMDG courses or training delivered onsite at your premises in key port and logistics regions such as Dover, Felixstowe, Southampton, London, Liverpool, Hull, Immingham, Grangemouth and Aberdeen.

Whether you manage occasional dangerous goods shipments or large-scale maritime logistics operations, we provide practical, reliable training tailored to your industry and compliance needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maritime IMDG Code?

What document must accompany dangerous goods when transported by sea?

Who needs IMDG training?

Who delivers the IMDG training?

Does the course meet IMDG training requirements?

Do all shipments containing hazardous materials require IMDG compliance?

How often must IMDG training be refreshed?

Is the training interactive?

Can the training be delivered at our premises?

Is the training customised to our business needs?

What will participants gain from attending?

IMDG (International Maritime Dangerous Goods) Training

IMDG (International Maritime Dangerous Goods) Training