The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Sub-Committee on Ship Systems and Equipment (SSE) convened its 11th session (SSE 11) from February 24 to 28, 2025. This meeting addressed various technical and operational matters concerning ship systems and equipment, aiming to enhance maritime safety and environmental performance, reports DNV.
Meeting highlights
- Finalized draft amendments to the LSA Code to improve the safety of the simulated launching of free-fall lifeboats.
- Finalized a draft revision of the Code of Practice for Atmospheric Oil Mist Detectors (MSC/Circ.1086).
- Progressed measures to enhance the fire safety of container ships.
- Progressed measures to reduce the fire risk of ships carrying new-energy vehicles.
- Progressed the development of mandatory ventilation requirements for partly enclosed lifeboats.
Key discussions and outcomes
Fire Safety Measures
- Fixed Fire-Extinguishing Systems: The committee continued evaluating fixed fire-extinguishing systems for ro-ro spaces, including high-expansion foam and CO₂ systems, as well as structural fire protection boundaries. The work is expected to be long-term, with potential amendments to the SOLAS regulation anticipated to enter into force with the 2032 update.
- Enhanced Fire Detection: Discussions focused on improving fire detection methods in cargo holds, such as implementing linear heat detection systems, and reviewing fire extinguishing requirements for containers carried above cargo hatch covers.
Safety Equipment and Arrangements
- Lifeboat Ventilation: The sub-committee finalized draft new ventilation requirements for lifeboats and liferafts to improve crew safety during emergencies.
- Lifting Appliances and Winches: Draft guidelines were developed for the design, construction, installation, testing, maintenance, and operation of lifting appliances and anchor handling winches, aiming to standardize practices and enhance operational safety.
Emerging Risks and Safety Approaches
- SSE 11 provided a platform to consider goal-based safety approaches, review scientific studies, and identify regulatory gaps to better equip ships in managing emerging risks.
Looking ahead
The outcomes of SSE 11 will inform the development of new guidelines and potential amendments to existing regulations, with the goal of enhancing the safety, reliability, and environmental performance of ship systems and equipment. The committee’s ongoing work reflects the IMO’s commitment to addressing evolving challenges in the maritime industry.
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Source: DNV
