Key issues that MSC is considering at the moment include the development of a safety regulatory framework supporting the reduction of GHG using alternative fuels and new technologies, and developing a Code for autonomous ships.

Outcomes from MSC 110:

Amendments to the following mandatory instruments were adopted: 

  1. SOLAS regulation V/23 on pilot transfer arrangements;

  2. Performance standards for pilot transfer arrangements; and

  3. Amendments to the IMSBC Code.

Amendments to the following mandatory instruments were not adopted: 

  1. The draft amendments to the International Code of the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code) will be sent back to the CCC sub-committee for further work.
  2. MSC resolution on Amendments to SOLAS chapter II-1, Part A, Regulation 2 and Part G, Regulation 56 & 57 in relation to the application of the IGF Code to also allow gaseous fuels to be within its scope which would permit ammonia as fuel.

MSC approved the following: 

  1. Revised guidelines for construction, installation, maintenance and inspection/survey of means of embarkation and disembarkation.

  2. STCW.7 circular on generic interim guidelines on training for seafarers on ships using alternative fuels and new technologies.

  3. MSC circular on the revised code of practice for atmospheric oil mist detectors.

  4. MSC resolution on amendments to resolution MSC.81(70) on Revised Recommendation on Testing of Life-Saving Appliances, related to the procedure for lifejacket buoyancy test and acceptance criteria.

  5. MSC resolution on Revised recommendations for entering enclosed spaces aboard ships.

  6. Guidelines associated with the new SOLAS requirements for emergency towing equipment on ships other than tankers.

  7. A circular inviting PSC Authorities to accept the flag State’s interpretation of the engine room escape trunk arrangements related to SOLAS II-2, regulation 13.4.1 and 13.4.2, and unified interpretation MSC.1/Circ.1511/Rev.1.

MSC also:

  1. Continued work on the non-mandatory MASS Code, with the Code now being close to being finalised. 

  2. Continues work on safe decarbonisation with identified barriers and gaps for alternative fuels and new technologies completed, and work assigned to sub-committees.

  3. Considered the “one ship, one code” policy with regards to the IGF and IGC Codes and agreed to keep the policy. Consequently, new guidelines for the use of fuel on ships subject to the IGC Code will be required.  

More LR regulatory updates, including those from IMO meetings, are available at www.lr.org/imo.