Introduction
Not everyone in the supply chain needs IMDG training — but many more roles require it t
han most realise.W
ith Amendment 42-24 coming into effect in 2025, it’s critical to understand who is legally required to complete training and what those responsibilities entail.
🔍 What the IMDG Code Says About Training
According to Chapter 1.3 of the IMDG Code, all shore-based personnel inv
olved in the transport of dangerous goods by sea must receive function-specific training.
This includes:
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Personnel who classify, pack, mark, label or document dangerous goods
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Those responsible for loading, unload
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ing, or overseeing such activities
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Employees who review, sign off, or plan DG shipments
📊 IMDG Training Responsibility Matrix
| Role | Training Required? | Key Responsibility |
|---|---|---|
| Freight Forwarders & Booking Agents | ✅ Yes | Coordinate DG bookings, check classification, arrange transport |
| Shipping Line Documentation Teams | ✅ Yes | Review DG declarations, stowage planning |
| Warehouse / Packing Personnel | ✅ Yes | Handle packaging, marking, and labeling of DG |
| Port Terminal / Stevedoring Crews | ✅ Yes | Load/unload DG containers, apply segregation |
| Dangerous Goods Safety Advisors (DGSA) | ✅ Yes | Oversee compliance, maintain records, train others |
| Compliance / Documentation Officers | ✅ Yes | Prepare DGD forms, check MSDS, manage recordkeeping |
| Supervisors / Safety Officers | ⚠️ Conditional | Must ensure team compliance and enforce procedures |
| Administrative Support Staff | 🟡 Depends | Only if directly influencing DG documentation or routing |
📄 Download the full matrix + FAQ as a cheat sheet → Download PDF
❓ Expert-Level FAQ
Q: Is IMDG training required for office staff who only handle invoices?
A: Only if they influence or review dangerous goods information on those documents.
Q: What qualifies as “function-specific” training?
A: Training tailored to the employee’s actual job duties under the IMDG Code — not just general awareness.
Q: How often should refresher training be done?
A: While not strictly regulated, best practice is every 2 years, or immediately following code updates.
Q: Is online training valid for compliance audits?
A: Yes, as long as it’s certified, documented, and includes assessment. SafetyNet’s IMDG e-learning meets these standards.
🔁 Why Training Matters
If required roles are not trained, your company may face:
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🚫 Rejected shipments
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💸 Fines or revoked approvals
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⚠️ Increased risk to worker and environmental safety
🎓 How to Ensure Your Team Is Trained in 2025
To stay compliant:
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✅ Enroll staff in certified IMDG e-learning programs
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🔁 Schedule refresher training at 2-year intervals
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💾 Maintain digital records for audit readiness
👉 Explore Our IMDG Training Course →
✅ Final Thoughts
Training isn’t just a regulation — it’s a core pillar of safety.
Now more than ever, logistics professionals, safety officers, and compliance teams must know who needs IMDG training and how to deliver it.
📁 Bonus for HR & Trainers
📄 Get the printable training matrix + FAQ
Perfect for team briefings or onboarding new hires.
Download the 1-Page Cheat Sheet →
