- New Regulatory Framework for Alternative Fuels and Technologies Progresses.
- Cyber Risk Management Standards for Ships and Ports Under Development.
- Global Piracy and Armed Robbery Incidents Decrease by 20% in 2024.
The Maritime Safety Committee met for its 109th session at IMO Headquarters in London from 2 to 6 December 2024. The session covered several important developments with the aim of improving maritime safety, sustainability, and regulatory frameworks, reports Marine Link.
Amendments to Mandatory IGC and IGF Codes Adopted
The Committee adopted important amendments to Chapter 16 of the International Gas Carrier (IGC) Code that deal with the use of cargoes identified as toxic products as fuel, which are aligned with advances in alternative fuels and emerging technologies. These will be effective from 1 July 2026.
There have also been changes to parts A and A-1 of the International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gases or Other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code). These amendments with respect to ship design, fire safety, ventilation and other safety matters will be in force from 1 January 2028.
Roadmap for the Development of the MASS Code
The work on the MASS Code was taken forward by the re-establishment of a working group. This has already finalised chapters on risk assessment, connectivity, and search and rescue. The Committee adopted a revised roadmap for the development of the Code, with milestones that include finalizing a non-mandatory Code by May 2026, developing a framework for an Experience-Building Phase (EBP) by December 2026, and starting work on a mandatory Code in 2028. The mandatory MASS Code is expected to be adopted by July 1, 2030, with an entry into force date of January 1, 2032.
Progressing a Safety Regulatory Framework
The Committee was updated on the development of a safety regulatory framework for reducing greenhouse gas emissions through new technologies and alternative fuels by the Correspondence Group. This group has been assessing technical hazards, risks, and regulatory gaps.
The Committee approved the new category, swappable traction lithium-ion battery containers, that it will add to its list of technologies under review. The Correspondence Group will continue working and will report back at the next session.
Cyber Risk Management Enhancements
The Committee continued work in this area by advancing initiatives to strengthen maritime cybersecurity. This included discussions on developing standards for ships and port facilities in terms of cybersecurity.
The establishment of a working group to address these issues will be considered at MSC 110, and Member States and organizations have been invited to submit proposals for further steps. The target completion date for this work has been extended to 2026.
Updates on Piracy and Armed Robbery
The Committee reviewed data on piracy and armed robbery incidents for the first half of 2024. A total of 72 incidents were reported, a notable decrease from the 90 incidents reported during the same period in 2023, reflecting a 20% global decline. The most affected regions were the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, with 37 incidents, followed by the Indian Ocean, West Africa, the Arabian Sea, the South China Sea, and South America (Atlantic).
Approval of guidelines for the recovery of deceased persons
In a humanitarian effort, the Committee approved guidelines on the recovery of deceased persons and managing deaths after recovery. These guidelines aim to raise awareness about the proper handling of non-survivors, particularly from migrant boats.
They address legal and cultural considerations, public health policies, and the handover of bodies between organizations. The guidelines supplement resolution MSC.528 (106) and will be forwarded to the Facilitation Committee for approval.
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Source: Marine Link
