SDC 12 Summary Report

Outcomes from SDC 12:

1. Draft Guidelines on Remote Inspection Techniques (RIT)
   A new set of draft guidelines on the use of remote inspection techniques (RIT) for ESP Code surveys has been finalised and are expected to be approved by MSC 111 in conjunction with the related ESP Code amendments. These changes will enter into force in January 2028. 
2. Escape arrangements from the lower part of machinery spaces
   There was strong support that no safety issues can be associated with current ship building methods and arrangements.  SOLAS will not be amended at this stage. 
   
   
3. Safe Return to Port (SRtP)
   Draft amendments to MSC.1/Circ.1369 - Interim explanatory notes for the assessment of passenger ship systems' capabilities after a fire or flooding casualty have been finalised. This extensive review includes more than a decade of industry learning to expand the scope of the circular to the full life-cycle of SRtP passenger ships (from concept / initial design to operations). These amendments are expected to be approved by MSC 111 (May 2026).
   
   
4. SOLAS amendments relating to traditional and non-traditional steering system and propulsion requirements
   The work on amendments to SOLAS chapters II-1 (part C – Machinery Installations) and V – Safety of Navigation and related instruments, was progressed and is expected to be finalised by 2028 and enter into force in January 2032. Further discussion on the associated draft MSC resolution for International Standards for Ship Manoeuvrability (ISSM) took place which highlighted the need for further information and data before finalisation.  The road map has been updated accordingly. 
   
   
5. Development of engine control room alert management (ECRAM) performance standards
   The work on a new set of ECRAM performance standards was started and there was agreement on high level principles and a road map. An intersessional correspondence group will begin the technical drafting work. This work is expected to be finalised by 2028. 
   
   
6. Underwater Radiated Noise (URN)
   The Experience Building Phase (EBP) will be extended to 2028 to allow the industry to collect more data and experience around the implementation of MEPC.1/Circ.906/Rev.1 - Revised guidelines for the reduction of underwater radiated noise from shipping to address adverse impacts on marine life, noting the barriers which hinder the uptake. A list of technical aspects to effectively reduce URN was agreed and it is expected to be developed during the EBP. Additionally, the MEPC draft circular - Technical guidance on co-optimizing energy efficiency and underwater radiated noise at the design and retrofit stage was finalised and is expected to be approved at MEPC 84. 
   
   
7. Draft guidelines for use of fibre-reinforced plastics (FRP) within ship structures
   The draft guidelines have been finalised. In the revision, particular attention has been given to alignment with existing IMO instruments, maintaining a performance-based approach and the introduction of new fire test methodologies and structural performance.  
   
   
8. Nuclear
   A high-level work plan has been developed and will be submitted to MSC 111. A correspondence group will work to prepare an inventory of topics/challenges relating to the use of nuclear reactors for maritime applications.