The MSC regulatory working group on MASS released its report with recommendations that the best way forward to address MASS in the IMO regulatory framework should, preferably, be through the development of a new MASS Code, says in article published on gard website.
Why new code?
Addressing every IMO convention or SOLAS chapter separately can lead to inconsistencies, confusion and raise potential barriers for the application of existing regulations to conventional ships. The new MASS Code can then be made mandatory by amending one of the existing IMO Conventions, such as SOLAS. The MSC working group also suggested that the MASS Code should be developed following a goal-based approach. This is in line with the current Guidelines developed by the IMO.
When MASS code begin?
If the IMO Legal and Facilitation Committees working groups come to the same conclusion as the MSC working group then the task of developing the new MASS Code can begin, which in the international arena one can only assume will take some considerable time. Autonomous ship have been designed and built and are preparing to operate in certain countries within domestic waters under domestic law and guidelines, in the absence of international regulations.
Developments in autonomous shipping
Norway was one of the countries that kick started the tremendous interest in autonomous shipping back in 2016, when it announced the first legal testing area for autonomous ships in the Trondheim fjord and later established a Norwegian Forum for Autonomous Ships (NFAS).
The Yara Birkeland, the first battery operated autonomous container vessel and was delivered to Yara Norge AS in November 2020 and is currently laying alongside in the port of Horten in Norway having completed its maiden voyage in December 2020.
Gard’s member Bastø Fosen in Norway is currently testing autonomous transit and auto docking functions on their ferry Bastø IV. The goal is to enhance the daily ferry crossings between Horten and Moss in Norway.
In Finland, FinFerries has successfully demonstrated autonomous sailing and docking with the ferry FALCO and Sweden’s Stena Line is testing artificial intelligence to support engine automation on their ferries to cut fuel costs and at the same time boost the transition to fossil-free fuels.
In Denmark, Svitzer has showcased a remote-controlled tug, with plans to develop this further for operation in the port of Copenhagen.
Gard is very proud to be insuring the Mayflower autonomous ship. The ship has been built to mark the anniversary of the historic voyage made 400 years ago by the original Mayflower that sailed from the UK to America.
Summary
- MASS released its report with recommendations for the development of a new MASS Code in IMO session.
- IMO convention or SOLAS chapter separately can lead to inconsistencies, confusion and raise potential barriers for the application of existing regulations to conventional ships.
- The new MASS Code can then be made mandatory by amending one of the existing IMO Conventions, such as SOLAS.
- Norway was one of the countries that kick started the tremendous interest in autonomous shipping back in 2016.
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Source: gard
