MSC 110 Adopts Amendments to Enhance Maritime Safety and Security

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Mfame Editor
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8

  • High-Speed Craft Codes updated with new lifejacket requirements.
  • IMSBC Code revised with technical updates and cargo schedules.
  • SPS Code amended to align with pilot transfer arrangements.

The 110th session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 110), held from June 18 to 27, 2025, adopted several key resolutions aimed at enhancing maritime safety and security. These resolutions included updates to the SOLAS Convention, the High-Speed Craft Codes, the IMSBC Code, and the SPS Code, as well as new standards and recommendations related to pilot transfer arrangements, life-saving equipment, information sharing, and medical certification for seafarers. The changes will be implemented through the Merchant Shipping (Safety Convention) Regulations, with most of them scheduled to take effect in 2027 or 2028, reports MPA.

Amendments to the SOLAS Convention

Resolution MSC.572(110) – Amendments to Chapters II-2 and V of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 (SOLAS)

  1. This update to Chapter II-2 ensures consistent implementation across both passenger and cargo ships.
  2. It also introduces changes to Chapter V and the appendix (Certificates) regarding pilot transfer arrangements.
  3. These amendments will take effect on January 1, 2028, as part of the Merchant Shipping (Safety Convention) Regulations.

Amendments to the High-Speed Craft Codes

Resolution MSC.573(110) – 1994 HSC Code

  1. This resolution aligns lifejacket requirements with those in SOLAS Chapter III.
  2. It updates the Record of Equipment for HSC Safety Certificates to include infant lifejackets and pilot transfer arrangements.
  3. These changes will be effective starting January 1, 2028.

Resolution MSC.574(110) – 2000 HSC Code

  1. Similar to the previous resolution, this one also aligns lifejacket requirements with SOLAS Chapter III.
  2. It updates the Record of Equipment to include infant lifejackets and pilot transfer arrangements.
  3. These amendments will also take effect on January 1, 2028.

Amendments to the IMSBC Code

Resolution MSC.575(110) – International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code
This resolution brings in technical updates and revisions to cargo schedules for both hazardous and non-hazardous bulk cargoes. It will come into force on January 1, 2027.

Amendments to the SPS Code

Resolution MSC.577(110) – 2008 Code of Safety for Special Purpose Ships (SPS Code)

  1. Introduces consequential amendments to the Record of Equipment for Special Purpose Ship Safety Certificates.
  2. Linked to amendments under Resolution MSC.572(110) on pilot transfer arrangements.
  3. Effective from 1 January 2028.

Pilot Transfer Arrangements

Resolution MSC.576(110) – Performance Standards for Pilot Transfer Arrangements

  1. Adopts new performance standards to support SOLAS regulation V/23 amendments (MSC.572(110)).
  2. Takes effect on 1 January 2028.
  3. Assembly to revoke Resolutions A.1045(27) and A.1108(29) as of 1 April 2030.

Maritime Information Sharing

Resolution MSC.578(110) – Encouragement of Maritime Information-Sharing

  1. Promotes the use of national and regional information-sharing centres.
  2. Covers maritime safety, security, illicit activities, environmental incidents, and search and rescue situations.

Seafarer Medical Certificates

Resolution MSC.579(110) – Accessibility of Information on Seafarer Medical Certificates

  1. Improves access to data on medical certificates and recognised medical practitioners.
  2. Aims to facilitate the issuance and use of seafarer medical documentation.

Testing of Life-Saving Appliances

Resolution MSC.580(110) – Amendments to MSC.81(70): Updates procedures for lifejacket buoyancy testing and acceptance criteria.

Safety in Enclosed Spaces

Resolution MSC.581(110) – Revised Recommendations for Entering Enclosed Spaces: Introduces updated safety measures for personnel entering enclosed spaces aboard ships.

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Source: MPA