- IACS reinforces its position as the IMO’s principal technical advisor by actively engaging in MSC 110, scheduled from 18 to 27 June 2025.
- Submissions include proposals and comments on SOLAS amendments, MASS Code updates, fire safety enhancements, and cybersecurity frameworks.
- Several new outputs are proposed to modernize outdated codes and improve safety, sustainability, and digital security across the maritime industry.
In its continued support for the work of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) will play an active role in the upcoming 110th session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 110). As the IMO’s leading technical advisor and a body comprised of recognized organizations (ROs), IACS has submitted a comprehensive portfolio of proposals and comments, underscoring its commitment to enhancing safety, regulatory clarity, and innovation across the global shipping industry.
Key Proposals and Contributions by IACS
SOLAS Regulation Improvements
MSC 110/3/5: Comments on draft amendments to SOLAS regulations II-1/2.29, II-1/56, and II-1/57, including suggestions for editorial enhancements.
Enhancing Maritime Autonomous Ship Systems (MASS)
MSC 110/5/7: Proposes a revised chapter 22 of the MASS Code, addressing ROC security, autonomous technologies, and expanding ISPS Code applicability to remote operators. Also recommends a cybersecurity review for MASS.
Modernizing Nuclear Safety Standards
MSC 110/6/4: Calls for a revision of the 1981 Code of Safety for Nuclear Merchant Ships, advocating updates to enable deployment of advanced nuclear reactors for zero-emission shipping.
Clarifying Fuel Definitions and Safety
MSC 110/6/6: Suggests amending the definition of “low-flashpoint fuel” in SOLAS II-1/2.29, with associated changes to the IGF Code.
Maritime Cybersecurity Ecosystem
MSC 110/7: Proposes developing goal-based cybersecurity standards for ships, ports, and supply chains, building on MSC 109 agreements.
Comments on IMO Secretariat Documents
Fire Safety in FRP Structures
MSC 110/11/1: Recommends limiting the revision of MSC.1/Circ.1574 to fire safety only, excluding structural strength concerns.
Clarifying Escape Requirements
MSC 110/11/2: Proposes revision of MSC.1/Circ.1511/Rev.1 to reflect recent interpretation on “lower part” terminology for escape provisions.
LSA Code and Long-Term Clarity
MSC 110/14/3: Advises caution on draft LSA Code changes due to their potential long-term impact on regulatory clarity.
New Outputs to Advance Fire Safety and Prevention
MSC 110/18/3: Suggests SOLAS amendments to reduce engine-room fire risks from fuel/lubrication oil leaks.
MSC 110/18/11: Proposes updated testing standards for floor covering materials.
MSC 110/18/12: Recommends aligning the FSS Code with revised SOLAS fire safety regulations.
MSC 110/18/14: Advocates including thermal imaging camera provisions in engine-room fire prevention guidelines.
Enhancing Casualty Reporting Standards
MSC 110/18/15: Following the reclassification of 7,602 past marine incidents, proposes updating MSC-MEPC.3/Circ 4/Rev.1 to improve taxonomy and reporting practices in GISIS.
Informational Papers
MSC 110-INF.7: Status report on GBS audit findings common to IACS members as of February 2025.
MSC 110-INF.15: Joint update by France and Germany on bulk carrier safety from 1978–2024. The study shows a significant reduction in crew risk, highlighting the positive effect of IMO-IACS regulations on safety performance.
IACS’s contributions to MSC 110 emphasize its leadership in shaping a safe, secure, and sustainable maritime future. From revising outdated codes to strengthening digital and physical safety standards, IACS continues to bridge the gap between innovation and regulation in the global shipping industry.
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Source: IACS
