Section 176.136 - Special stowage(a) Special stowage is required for certain articles presenting both explosive and chemical hazards, such as smoke or lachrymatory (compatibility group G or H), toxic (compatibility group K), or substances and articles which present a special risk (compatibility group L). Except as permitted in paragraph (c) of this section, Class 1 (explosive) materials requiring special stowage must be stowed on deck unless such stowage is impracticable and the COTP authorizes special stowage below deck. Where on deck stowage is recommended and an alternative stowage below deck is permitted by the COTP, the stowage must always be subject to special stowage.(b) Class 1 (explosive) materials for which special stowage is required must be stowed as far away as practicable from living, accommodation, and working areas, and may not be overstowed. Closed cargo transport units in which such Class 1 (explosive) materials are stowed may not be located closer to the vessel's side than a distance equal to one-eighth of the vessel's beam or 2.4 m (8 feet), whichever is less.(c) Class 1 (explosive) materials in compatibility groups G and H may be transported in steel magazines or in freight containers. If a freight container is used for this purpose, the floor of the freight container must be leakproof; for example, an all-metal container may be used and a fillet of cement or other material worked across the bottom of the door opening.(d) Class 1 (explosive) materials stowed in one compartment may not be of more than one compatibility group, except the COTP may allow Class 1 (explosive) materials of compatibility groups G and H in separate steel magazines to be stowed in the same compartment, not less than 3 m (10 feet) apart.(e) Class 1 (explosive) materials in compatibility groups K and L must be stowed in a steel magazine regardless of the stowage position in the vessel.