A recent investigation into a containership fire served as a timely reminder of the hazards associated with the carriage of charcoal cargoes.  The well recognised principal hazard is the propensity of charcoal to self-heat to ignition, with this topic discussed in a previous article published on the Burgoynes website in 2022.  That article also outlined the IMDG Code requirements for the carriage of charcoal that were in-force at the time.  In this regard, the IMO Maritime Safety Committee adopted, in May 2024, Amendment 42-24 of the IMDG Code, which introduces stricter rules relating to the carriage of charcoal that will, no doubt, be welcomed within the maritime community.

Amendment 42-24 came into transitional effect at the start of this year, meaning that it can now be applied voluntarily.  It will become mandatory from 1 January 2026.  To continue reading, please click here or on the image below: