CHAPTER 1.3 – TRAINING

Training is a mandatory requirement for all personnel involved in the transport of dangerous goods. Proper training ensures that individuals understand the risks associated with hazardous materials, know how to handle them in accordance with regulatory requirements, and are capable of responding effectively to incidents. Inadequate or outdated training is a major contributing factor to accidents at sea, onboard ships, and in port facilities. Therefore, training is both a safety obligation and a legal requirement under the IMDG Code.

1.3.1 Objective

The objective of dangerous goods training is to ensure that every person whose duties involve DG transport has the knowledge, skills, and responsibility awareness required to safely manage hazardous cargo.

Training develops competency in:

• Identifying hazard classes and risks,

• Applying regulatory provisions correctly,

• Performing operational tasks without causing harm to personnel, property, or the environment,

• Recognizing emergency situations and executing appropriate actions.

Ultimately, the goal is to create a workforce capable of preventing accidents, minimizing consequences, and maintaining regulatory compliance throughout the DG transport chain.

1.3.2 Training Categories

The IMDG Code divides DG training into three structured categories, each linked to the individual’s job function and level of responsibility.

a. General Awareness Training

This foundational level is required for all personnel who may encounter or work near dangerous goods, even if they do not directly handle them.

General awareness covers:

• Purpose and structure of the IMDG Code,

• Classification of dangerous goods,

• Hazard communication (labels, placards, markings),

• Overview of packaging methods and transport requirements,

• General responsibilities under SOLAS & MARPOL.

Outcome:
The trainee gains a broad understanding of how dangerous goods are regulated, enabling informed and safe interaction with hazardous materials in the workplace.

b. Function-Specific Training

This training focuses on tasks directly performed by the trainee. It is tailored depending on whether the person is responsible for:

• Packaging, labeling, and marking of DG,

• Cargo acceptance checks,

• Documentation preparation (including DG Declaration),

• CTU packing and securing,

• Stowage planning and segregation on vessels,

• Handling operations in terminals,

• Loading/unloading IMO class cargo.

Each role has different risks and regulatory references.
For example:

• A shipper must understand Proper Shipping Names and packing instructions.

• A deck officer must understand segregation rules and fire plans.

• A terminal operator must know safe handling and spill prevention practices.

Outcome:
Personnel demonstrate role-specific competency, ensuring every step of the DG handling chain meets regulatory standards.

c. Safety Training

Safety training equips personnel with practical knowledge to protect themselves and respond to emergencies.

Key elements include:

• Safe working practices and PPE selection,

• Firefighting principles for chemical hazards,

• Containment and cleanup of spills or leaks,

• First-aid considerations using MFAG,

• Hazards of specific classes (e.g., toxicity, radiation, reactivity),

• Reaction to accidents such as thermal runaway, emission of toxic gases, or container breach.

Outcome:
Personnel can identify hazards early, apply preventive measures, and respond effectively during emergencies to protect life, property, and the environment.

1.3.3 Competency Requirements

Training must be validated through assessment to confirm comprehension and practical ability. Methods may include:

• Written examinations,

• Practical demonstrations,

• Case studies or scenario-based evaluations,

• Oral questioning or simulation exercises.

Competency is not permanent. Regulations evolve, materials change, and operational environments shift.
Therefore:

• Refresher training is required every 2–3 years, or sooner if:

  • Amendments to the IMDG Code are adopted,

  • The person’s job function changes,

  • The organization modifies procedures,

  • Equipment or cargo types change significantly.

Maintaining updated competency ensures that personnel remain aligned with the latest regulatory requirements and safety practices.

1.3.4 Record Keeping

Training records form part of the organization’s compliance evidence and are subject to inspection by competent authorities, port state control, and classification societies.

Records must include:

• Trainee’s full name,

• Training category completed,

• Course content and date,

• Assessment results,

• Validity period or next training due date,

• Instructor or training provider identification.

Retention requirement:

• Minimum of three years, or longer if national requirements demand.

• Records must be retrievable on request, especially during audits or after an incident.

Proper documentation demonstrates that an organization has fulfilled its duty to ensure cautious, competent handling of dangerous goods.

Summary of Chapter 1.3