The International Maritime Organization’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) held its 109th session in London from December 2nd to 6th, 2024. This meeting, which included both in-person and virtual participation, addressed various safety-related issues within the maritime industry, according to Manifold Times.
Amendments Adopted
The Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has adopted significant amendments to safety regulations related to the use of liquefied gases and alternative fuels in shipping.
- IGC Code Amendments: The Committee approved amendments to the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code), specifically regarding the use of toxic fuels. These amendments are expected to enter into force on July 1, 2026.
- IGF Code Amendments: The Committee also approved amendments to the International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gases or Other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code), focusing on ship design, fire safety, and other safety aspects. These amendments are set to take effect on January 1, 2028.
Recognizing the potential capacity-building needs related to these amendments, the MSC advised the Technical Cooperation Committee to provide necessary assistance to Member States.
The Committee also received an update on the work of the Correspondence Group on GHG safety, which is tasked with developing a comprehensive safety framework for ships utilizing new technologies and alternative fuels. The Group is currently gathering detailed information on the hazards and risks associated with these technologies.
SOLAS Chapter II Amendments
The Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has taken several important decisions regarding the safety of ships using alternative fuels:
- Clarification of IGF Code Applicability: The MSC clarified that the International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gases or Other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code) applies to fuels in both gaseous and liquid states, aligning Chapter II-1 of the SOLAS Convention with this interpretation.
- Amendments to IGC Code: The MSC approved amendments to the IGC Code, including updates on filling limits for cargo tanks and safety provisions for ships using LPG as fuel. These amendments will be considered for adoption at the next MSC meeting.
- Consolidated Version of IGC Code: The MSC requested the Secretariat to prepare a consolidated version of the IGC Code, incorporating all existing and pending amendments, to ensure clarity and consistency.
- Interim Guidelines for Ammonia: The MSC approved interim guidelines for the safety of ships using ammonia as fuel.
- Updated Work Plan for Alternative Fuels: The MSC endorsed an updated work plan for the development of new alternative fuels for maritime use.
These decisions reflect the IMO’s ongoing efforts to enhance maritime safety and facilitate the transition to cleaner fuels in the shipping sector.
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Source: Manifold Times
