The 11th session of the Sub-Committee on Ship Design and Construction (SDC 11) commenced on January 13, 2025. Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez opened the session with an overview of the key topics to be addressed, reports Safety4sea.
Enhancing Safety Procedures
The agenda for the session includes a review of Emergency Towing Arrangements, aiming to enhance safety procedures for a wider range of vessels beyond tankers.
The Sub-Committee will also review Regulation 25 of the 1988 Load Line Convention to consider adding a sag standard for chains. Additionally, discussions will focus on revising the ESP Code to incorporate Remote Inspection Techniques and conducting a comprehensive revision of the 2009 Code on Alarms and Indicators to improve maritime safety.
The revision of SOLAS chapters II-1 (part C) and V will focus on updating regulations to incorporate new technologies, particularly non-traditional propulsion and steering systems. The Sub-Committee will also advance the revision of the interim explanatory notes on Safe Return to Port, aiming to improve passenger ships’ ability to return to port or conduct evacuation and abandonment procedures during emergencies.
URN Issue
Dominguez emphasized the importance of addressing the Underwater Radiated Noise (URN) issue, acknowledging the Sub-Committee’s previous success in developing revised guidelines and an associated action plan. He stressed the need for continued progress on this matter, as directed by the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 82), and expressed gratitude to Canada and the United States for their ongoing support. He urged all Member States to actively contribute to meeting the objectives within the next year and a half.
Dominguez stressed the importance of rule compliance to prevent maritime accidents. He also highlighted the Secretariat’s ongoing efforts to enhance technical assistance. Regarding the situation in the Red Sea, the Secretary-General sought further assistance from Member States to ensure the safe release of the crew of the Galaxy Leader.
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Source: Safety4sea
