Briggs McCriddle
7 December 2024
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) held the 109th session of its Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) from December 2 to December 6, 2024. The meeting brought together maritime stakeholders to address critical safety issues and environmental challenges within the global shipping industry. Here are the major outcomes from this pivotal session.
Advancements in Alternative Fuels and Ship Fuel Safety
The committee focused on enhancing safety protocols for alternative fuels, a cornerstone of decarbonization in shipping.
• Safety Standards for Alternative Fuels: Draft updates to the SOLAS Convention were proposed to improve the International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gases or Other Low-Flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code). These updates aim to ensure the safe adoption of fuels like ammonia. Interim guidelines for ammonia as a marine fuel were also reviewed, addressing toxicity management, emergency response, and systems to mitigate accidental releases.
• Fuel Development Plan: A new work plan was endorsed to evaluate innovative fuels such as hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) and dimethyl ether (DME). The roadmap emphasizes the importance of thorough safety evaluations before widespread adoption.
Amendments to Key Safety Codes
The session introduced significant changes to established maritime safety codes to address evolving operational risks.
• IGF Code Enhancements: Proposed updates included more robust pipe design requirements, improved fire protection measures, and enhanced ventilation systems to support safer operations with low-flashpoint fuels. These changes are expected to be implemented in 2028.
• Life-Saving Appliances (LSA) Code: Amendments were proposed to improve ventilation in lifeboats and liferafts and refine testing for free-fall lifeboat release mechanisms. A notable change requires the installation of self-righting liferafts on new vessels.
• High-Speed Craft (HSC) Code Alignment: Updates harmonized lifejacket requirements with SOLAS standards, enhancing consistency across high-speed vessels. These changes will apply after the 2028 inspection cycle.
• Fire Test Procedures (FTP) Code Updates: Revisions were initiated to modernize fire protection materials and systems, keeping pace with advancements in safety technology.
Updates to Goal-Based Ship Construction Standards
The committee reviewed updates to goal-based standards, focusing on the integration of modern environmental and statistical data to improve ship design. New wave data, as detailed in IACS Recommendation 34, will guide the construction of bulk carriers and oil tankers. However, there were calls for more comprehensive assessments to account for future climate conditions.
Regulatory Framework for Autonomous Ships
Marine Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) continued to be a key discussion point, reflecting the industry's transition to greater automation.
• Draft MASS Code Progress: Work advanced on a regulatory code for autonomous ships, covering risk management, remote operations, and search-and-rescue responsibilities. This code aims to address regulatory gaps in existing frameworks like SOLAS, with final adoption anticipated in 2026.
Strengthening Maritime Cybersecurity
As cyber threats to the maritime sector increase, the committee prioritized strengthening defenses for vessels and port facilities.
• Cybersecurity Guidelines: Delegates were encouraged to submit proposals for updated guidelines targeting cybersecurity risks. Implementation of these guidelines is slated for 2026, aiming to protect critical maritime infrastructure.
Modernizing Navigation and Search-and-Rescue Systems
The session highlighted key improvements to navigation, communications, and emergency response protocols.
• Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS): Changes were made to modernize radiocommunication systems under SOLAS Chapter IV, ensuring their consistent application across the industry.
• Revised Routeing Measures: New and updated routeing measures were introduced to enhance navigational safety, particularly in high-traffic and sensitive areas.
• Performance Standards: The committee approved updated standards for systems like Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) and pilot transfer arrangements to enhance operational safety.
• Search and Rescue Transponders (SART): Noting limitations in radar SART technology, the committee recommended updated usage protocols and global awareness campaigns.
Additional Approvals and Clarifications
A range of miscellaneous issues was addressed to improve operational safety and clarify regulatory requirements.
• Unified Interpretations: The session clarified various SOLAS regulations, including those concerning rescue boats, propulsion systems, and cargo piping. Notably, the importance of redundancy in propulsion systems was reiterated.
• Firefighting Foam Restrictions: While fluorinated firefighting foams remain in use, the committee called for further evaluations, leaving the door open for potential restrictions in the future.
• Battery Fire Risks on Ships: With the growing prevalence of electric vehicles (EVs), the committee emphasized the need to update fire safety regulations, improve crew training, and develop robust response strategies for battery fires.
• Preventing Collisions with Fishing Vessels: Recommendations were issued to mitigate risks of collisions, drawing insights from past incidents to inform future best practices.
Sustainability and Environmental Protection
While the MSC focuses primarily on safety, environmental considerations were woven into several discussions.
• Decarbonization Efforts: The committee emphasized the importance of aligning safety regulations with global decarbonization goals. Discussions underscored the need for sustainable design and operation practices in the adoption of alternative fuels.
• Adapting to the Energy Transition: Delegates highlighted the safety challenges posed by the transition to new fuels and technologies, stressing the need for regulations to evolve alongside innovation.
The IMO’s 109th MSC session underscored the organization’s commitment to enhancing maritime safety while navigating the challenges of technological and environmental transformation. From strengthening regulations on alternative fuels and autonomous shipping to modernizing navigation systems and addressing cybersecurity threats, the session charted a course for a safer and more sustainable maritime industry.
As these measures move toward implementation, the global shipping community must remain agile and proactive in adapting to the new regulatory landscape. By fostering collaboration among industry stakeholders, regulatory authorities, and ship operators, the maritime sector can continue its evolution toward a safer and greener future.
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