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Understanding IMDG Code Special Provision 274

Updated: Oct 29

The International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDGC) covers the global hazardous material shipping regulations for ocean freight, ensuring safety and environmental protection in the maritime industry. One of the more common special provisions within this code is Special Provision 274, which adds clarity and critical detail when it comes to labeling and documentation.


What Is Special Provision 274?


Special Provision 274 applies specifically to substances or mixtures where the proper shipping name (PSN) includes a generic classification.  Typically these proper shipping names include “N.O.S.” (Not Otherwise Specified), however it can be applicable when the entry is a generic proper shipping name. 


When table 3.2 of the Dangerous Goods List shows 274 in column (6), the provision mandates that the proper shipping name must be supplemented with the technical name for the substance. The technical name must adequately describe the substance or mixture being transported.


What is a Technical Name?


The technical name(s) are required to be placed in brackets ( ) immediately after the proper shipping name. Only the two main constituents that most significantly contribute to the hazard or hazards of a mixture or article need to be listed. If a package containing a mixture requires a subsidiary hazard label, one of the two technical names in parentheses must refer to the component that necessitates the subsidiary label. 


The technical name must be a recognized chemical or biological name or another term commonly found in scientific and technical handbooks, texts, and journals. Trade names cannot not be used.  This rule does not apply to controlled substances if national law or international conventions prohibit their disclosure. 


Examples of Technical Name Entries


For instance, when shipping UN2570 Cadmium Compound, simply using the proper shipping name is not sufficient for the documentation and package markings. Special Provision 274 as listed in conjunction with this entry requires a specific technical name to be included alongside the generic classification. The technical name should describe the hazardous material more precisely. This not only ensures clear identification but also improves emergency response efforts should a situation arise during transport.


UN2570, Cadmium Compound (Cadmium Chloride), 6.1, III 



Additional Examples in Action


The IMDG Code gives examples of how to apply Special Provision 274. Consider these two examples related to entries that have N.O.S. as part of their proper shipping name:


UN1993, Flammable, Liquid, N.O.S. ( 2-Methyl-1,3-dioxolane), 3, II


UN2929, Toxic Liquid, Flammable, Organic, N.O.S. ( Alkanolamine/aldehyde condensate, Methanol), 6.1 (3), II


In both cases, N.O.S. is part of the proper shipping name and SP 274 is listed next to their respective entries in table 3.2. The supplemented specific technical terms that describe the actual contents is important for anyone handling, storing, or responding to emergencies involving these chemical shipments.

 

Why are Technical Names Important?


Safety is the primary concern when it comes to handling dangerous goods.  By requiring the use of a specific chemical name, Special Provision 274 helps handlers, transporters, and responders better understand the actual risks associated with the cargo. Whether it is environmental hazard, chemical reactivity, or fire risk, knowing the exact substance enables proper handling and emergency measures.


Failure to include the proper technical name can result in regulatory penalties. Improper documentation and marking can cause rejections and hinder a smooth shipping process. Special Provision 274 ensures that all parties involved in the transport process are on the same page regarding the nature of the hazardous materials being shipped.

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