- The Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) will hold its 109th session at IMO Headquarters in London from December 2–6, 2024, focusing on maritime safety, security, and sustainability.
- Discussions include amendments to the IGC and IGF Codes, goal-based standards for new ship construction, development of a code for autonomous ships (MASS), safety frameworks for GHG emission reduction, cybersecurity, piracy, and updates from sub-committees.
- The meeting emphasizes adapting regulations to address new technologies, alternative fuels, and autonomous ship safety.
The Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) will convene for its 109th session in December 2024. This crucial meeting addresses maritime safety, security, and environmental sustainability, covering a broad range of topics, including regulatory updates, technological advancements, and piracy, reports SAFETY4SEA.
Key Discussions and Updates
Amendments to IGC and IGF Codes
Updates to the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code) and International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gases or Other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code) will address safety concerns tied to alternative fuels and ship design.
Early application guidelines for these amendments will be issued via an MSC circular.
Goal-Based Standards for Ship Construction
The Committee will evaluate the outcomes of the 2024 GBS audit, including assessments of Biro Klasifikasi Indonesia (BKI) and standards for wave data.
Code for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS)
Progress will be reviewed on draft chapters related to safety of navigation and fire protection. A working group will further refine a non-mandatory MASS Code.
Safety Framework for GHG Reduction
An oral update will detail progress on regulatory frameworks supporting GHG emission reduction through new technologies and alternative fuels.
Identified safety gaps will guide further development.
Cyber Risk Management
MSC 109 will build on revised guidelines for maritime cybersecurity and discuss proposals for ship and port facility standards.
Enhancing Maritime Security
Updates will include capacity-building initiatives and global security programs, such as the EU-funded Port Security Project and UN Counter-Terrorism Compact.
Piracy and Armed Robbery
Reports show a 20% global decrease in incidents in 2024 compared to 2023, with the most affected areas including the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, Indian Ocean, and West Africa.
Revised Formal Safety Assessment Guidelines (FSA)
The Committee will update FSA guidelines based on recent studies, enhancing their role in evaluating new maritime regulations.
Sub-Committee Reports
Key topics include lifejacket standards, new pilot transfer arrangements, updates to the IAMSAR Manual, and interim guidelines for ammonia-fueled ships.
Domestic Ferry Safety
Efforts to enhance domestic ferry safety include collaborations with regional organizations and industry stakeholders.
International Safety Management (ISM) Code
Recommendations from ILO/IMO groups addressing workplace violence and harassment will be reviewed, alongside a proposal for a comprehensive ISM Code review.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: SAFETY4SEA
