The IMO recently hosted the 108th session of the MSC from 15th to 24th May 2024.
During this session, several amendments were adopted, and reports were received from working groups. Key highlights include:
- A variety of changes aimed at improving the fire safety for both new and existing ro-ro passenger ships, with new rules to enter force on 1 January 2026
- A requirement for an emergency towing arrangement on all new ships (excluding tankers which remain subject to their own rules) > 20,000 GT, constructed on or after 1 January 2028
- Although progress has been made on the Maritime Autonomous Surface Ship (MASS) Code, the non-mandatory code is expected to be finalised in 2025, with the mandatory code not entering force until 2032.
For more information and interpretation of the upcoming regulations, shipowners should consult their classification society and/or flag state administration as appropriate.
A useful summary of the main outcomes from the session can be found at the following link.