Organometallic chemistry is the study of chemical compounds containing bonds between carbon and a metal. Organometallics have wide use in catalytic process including production of Polyethylene and polypropylene.

Depending on their properties, organometallic substances may be classified in classes 4.2 (substances liable to spontaneous combustion) or 4.3 (substances when in contact with water emits flammable gas). IMDG Code lists organometallic substances with UN ID 3391 to 3400.

These substances are very dangerous due to their potential to start fire especially UN 3394 ORGANOMETALLIC SUBSTANCE, LIQUID, PYROPHORIC, WATER-REACTIVE. Up to IMDG code 34^th amendment UN 3394 was prohibited to be carried on ships carrying explosives. After various safety considerations of modern vessels IMO amended IMDG Code allowing UN 3394 on ships carrying dangerous goods with special requirement of stowage.

IMDG code observation on UN 3394 states this substance as “Highly flammable liquid. Liable to ignite spontaneously in air. In contact with air, evolve irritating and slightly toxic fumes. React violently with moisture, water and acids evolving flammable gas.”

Below is the difference in IMDG Code 34^th and 35^th amendment for UN 3394 stowage.

• Non containerized packages of UN 3394 and Explosives

If it is non-containerized packages then Separated longitudinally by an intervening complete compartment or hold from means : Vertical separation alone does not meet this requirement. Between a package under deck and one on deck, a minimum distance of 24 m, including a complete compartment, must be maintained longitudinally. For on deck stowage, this segregation means a separation by a distance of at least 24 metres longitudinally.

• Containerized UN 3394 and Explosives