- Major IMO and SOLAS Amendments Enter Force From 2026.
- New Safety, Environmental and Design Rules Set for Global Shipping.
- IMO Regulatory Changes Reshape Ship Safety and Compliance Timelines.
The recent amendments to the LSA Code are shaking things up by updating safety requirements for lifeboats and rescue boats that use single fall and hook systems on passenger and cargo ships weighing 500 GT and above, which are set to be built on or after January 1, 2026. They’ve also revised the speed limits for survival craft on ships that have launching heights of 30 meters or more. Plus, there are new performance standards for SOLAS adult lifejackets that will apply to units delivered after that same date, reports Witherbys.
Lifting Equipment and Winches
SOLAS is stepping in with mandatory safety requirements for lifting appliances and anchor handling winches that have a safe working load of 1,000 kg and above. This applies to both existing setups and new installations.
Fire Safety Enhancements
There are new fire protection requirements for vehicle-carrying ships built on or after January 1, 2026. They’re also ramping up fire protection for accommodation and cargo control rooms on cargo ships of 500 GT and above, and PFOS-based firefighting foams are now off the table.
Fuel, Documentation and Polar Operations
The amendments to fuel safety rules mean that bunker delivery notes will need to be updated. The Polar Code is also getting an expansion to include non-SOLAS ships, which will help extend safety and environmental provisions in polar waters.
Navigation, Materials and Dangerous Goods
Electronic inclinometers are now a must-have for bulk carriers and container ships of 3,000 GT and above that are built from January 1, 2026. High manganese austenitic steel has been approved under the IGC and IGF Codes, and the IMDG Code Amendment 42-24 is introducing new substances while revising existing requirements.
Crew Competence and Cargo Safety
The STCW Code is now requires training focused on preventing bullying, violence, and sexual harassment. Additionally, the International Grain Code has introduced a new loading condition for specially suitable compartments.
Environmental and Emissions rules
Starting March 1, 2026, MARPOL Annexe VI will establish new NOx and SOx ECAs in the Canadian Arctic and Norwegian Sea. Amendments through 2027 will also update engine re-certification requirements following any modifications.
Looking Ahead to 2028
From 1 January 2028, emergency towing arrangements become mandatory for ships of 20,000 GT and above, excluding tankers. The IGF Code also introduces new fuel tank design requirements for gas-fuelled ships.
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free Click here to Subscribe!
Source: Witherbys
