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Darlington, UK, 20 April 2010 IMDG Code e-learning training tool now available with 49 CFR module Mandatory training for shore side staff involved in dangerous goods transport by sea is included in the latest Amendment of the IMDG Code, which entered into force on 1 January 2010. Exis developed IMDG Code e-learning, a computer-based training tool, to help organisations comply with the new requirement. This training tool is now available with an optional configuration focusing on the additional requirements in 49 CFR when shipping into and out of the United States under the IMDG code provisions. IMDG Code e-learning offers two levels of training for shore side staff - general awareness training for staff requiring a familiarisation with the IMDG Code requirements, and function specific training for staff directly involved in dangerous goods transport. The 49 CFR module can be taken in addition to any of the other course configurations. This module provides information on the additional requirements in 49 CFR when shipping to or from the United States under the IMDG Code provisions. The elements in this module focus on: - providing an overview of the 49 CFR regulations - general conditions for the use of the IMDG Code when shipping to or from the United States - requirements for specific materials and packages when shipping to or from the United States - additional requirements when using the IMDG Code when shipping to or from the United States IMDG Code e-learning was developed by Exis Technologies with the support of industry bodies including IMO, and is independently certified by Det Norske Veritas (DNV). The course is individually configured to the student's job role. It precisely follows the IMDG Code, including both the general awareness and function specific training requirements. The development of IMDG Code e-learning, an initiative of Exis Technologies, was supported by the International Maritime Organization and industry bodies to address the urgent need to train large numbers of staff worldwide economically and with minimum disruption to normal working. Costs are greatly reduced with this flexible, "off the shelf" training package. Exis developed the 49 CFR module with the assistance of American Nautical Services (ANS), Regional Representative to the Americas for Exis. Tim Gossett, Hazmat Software Specialist for ANS and Board of Certification Chair for the Dangerous Goods Trainers Association, authored the module. Regarding the 49 CFR module, Gossett said, "IMDG Code e-Learning, with the new module, is now the best training package available that complies with both international and US regulations for the transport of dangerous goods by vessel." The course is independently certified by Det Norske Veritas (DNV), one of the world's leading classification societies. The course is sponsored by the TT Club and ICHCA (International Cargo Handling & Co-ordination Association). Many of the global competent authorities are in the process of approving IMDG Code e-learning. Eight of the top 20 container lines have already implemented the intranet version of IMDG Code e-learning for their training requirements.   About IMDG Code e-learning What is the requirement? The IMDG Code is the regulatory framework for all aspects of handling dangerous goods and marine pollutants in sea transport. The IMO Maritime Safety Committee mandated training for shore-side staff involved in dangerous goods transport by sea in 2008, and it is included in the latest Amendment of the IMDG Code, which entered into force on 1 January 2010. This is a global requirement implemented through national law by signatory states through SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea convention). Shore side staff requiring IMDG Code training include: - Shippers and forwarders - Container packers and consolidators - Shipping line booking staff - Stevedores - Port and terminal operators - Inspectors Function specific training must be taken by those who: - classify dangerous goods - pack dangerous goods in packages - mark, label or placard dangerous goods - loading and unloading trucks, containers and tanks - prepare and sign transport documents for dangerous goods - offer/accept dangerous goods for transport - handle dangerous goods in transport - prepare dangerous goods loading/stowage plans - load/unload dangerous goods into/from ships - carry dangerous goods About 49 CFR 49 CFR §171.22 authorises, with certain conditions and limitations, the offering of transportation to, from, or within the United States in accordance with the IMDG Code so as long as it complies with the limitations and exceptions stated in § 171.22, 171.23 and 171.25. About Exis Technologies Exis Technologies, headquartered in Darlington, UK, is the supplier of Hazcheck Systems for the management of dangerous goods in sea transport and provider of IMDG Code e-learning courses. Hazcheck Systems offer a complete solution for every link in the sea transport chain, backed by technical support and consulting services. Exis has over 23 years experience of supporting major shipping lines, distributors and warehouse operators, ports and terminals, government and regulatory organisations worldwide. 14 of the top 20 global container lines are Exis customers. The company's specialist teams combine chemistry, hazardous materials expertise, computer programming, quality assurance and project management skills that deliver the most efficient and user-friendly systems available. For further information, please see www.hazcheck.com About American Nautical Services American Nautical Services (ANS) is a 33-year-old marine service company based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Amnautical is the Regional Representative to the Americas for Exis and is the help desk and first point of contact for Exis software users in the Americas. They specialize in Hazardous Material Compliance matters and have provided consulting services in this area to many clients over the years. The most comprehensive undertaking to date is the representation of Seaboard Marine during the development and implementation of the 49 CFR configuration for Hazcheck Gateway. For further information please contact:
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