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Darlington, UK, 3 April 2009 Exis Technologies launches IMDG Code training solution for shore-side personnel at Multimodal 2009 Exis Technologies, leading supplier of computerised systems for the management of dangerous goods in sea transport, is launching their new computer-based training tool, IMDG Code e-learning at Multimodal this year. From January 2010, IMDG Code training is mandatory for all shore-side staff, including shipping line booking staff, container packers, consolidators and port staff involved in dangerous goods transport by sea. Based on IMDG Code training recommendations, the course helps individuals and companies comply at low cost and with minimum disruption to normal working. IMDG Code e-learning is individually configured to the student's job role. The course follows training recommended in the IMDG Code and develops competence precisely for the job functions in these recommendations. This means that there is no wasted time and effort in irrelevant studies and there is higher competence attained in the required topics. E-learning avoids the administration and disruption of staff away from their jobs and allows students to study at their own pace and at any location, within targets set by management. Costs are greatly reduced with e-learning, especially in high staff turnover situations. The course is structured at two levels: modules dealing with relevant topics such as classification or packaging and elements within the modules corresponding to lessons. Short self-assessment examinations follow each element, with scores building towards a Course Completion Certificate. The IMDG code for Windows, published separately, can be co-loaded with the e-learning course so that Code text relevant to a particular study subject can be displayed. The IMDG Code e-learning is available as internet downloads for standalone and networked computers and for corporate intranet delivery. The intranet version allows a supervisor to set up courses locally, regionally or globally, to set study targets and to monitor student progress. Intranet versions can be customised to include the operator's dangerous goods procedures and practice. Caroline Banks, Staff Development Manager, NYK Group Europe said, "We decided to implement the intranet version of the IMDG Code e-learning training course for our operations because it was the most cost-effective method of training our shore side staff. In the current economic climate we are looking for cost-effective solutions across our operations, including training. Classroom based training is expensive to organise and takes employees away from their normal duties. With the e-learning course we can train large numbers of staff on a flexible basis within a timeframe set by us. Set up is quick and easy and training can begin immediately. Also, there is no compromise on the quality of the training as it has been developed by industry experts and is certified by DNV." Ken Burgess, Director of Exis Technologies said, "Amendment 34-08 of the IMDG Code will become mandatory in eight months time. Companies need to begin their shore side training urgently to ensure that they can prove to the relevant authorities that they have taken the correct measures in their dangerous goods shipping operations." IMDG Code e-learning is certified in accordance with DNV Standard for Certification of Learning Programmes. Development involved independent expert panels and was supported by shipping industry bodies. Full information and a demonstration is available at www.imdge-learning.com.   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. 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 the IMDG Code The IMDG Code is the regulatory framework for all aspects of handling dangerous goods and marine pollutants in sea transport. Its provisions are adopted as national law by all SOLAS (Safety Of Life At Sea Convention) signatory States. Amendment 34-08, optional from January 2009 and mandatory from January 2010, for the first time requires training of shore-side staff involved in dangerous goods transport by sea. Who are shore-side staff? - Shippers and forwarders - Container packers and consolidators - Shipping line booking staff - Stevedores - Port and terminal operators - Inspectors For further information please contact:
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