IMO MSC 111: New MASS Code adopted
The 111th session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 111) was held from 13 to 22 May 2026. The adoption of a new goal-based Code for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) marks a key milestone in the IMO’s work to ensure the regulatory framework keeps pace with the rapid development of shipping technologies. MSC 111 also approved revised explanatory notes for the Safe Return to Port concept for passenger ships, as well as draft amendments to the IGC Code for gas carriers to incorporate a decade of Unified Interpretations, turning operational experience into clearer and more consistent requirements.
Information for: Design offices, shipyards, suppliers, manufacturers, owners/managers, flag states
AMENDMENTS TO MANDATORY INSTRUMENTS
SOLAS Chapters IV and V – dissemination over multiple satellite services
MSC 111 adopted amendments to the communications and navigation requirements in SOLAS Regulations IV/5, V/4 and V/5 to clarify that Maritime Safety Information (MSI) and information related to Search and Rescue (SAR) shall be disseminated through all operational Recognized Mobile Satellite Services (RMSS). Since 1 January 2020, both Inmarsat and Iridium have been recognized as mobile satellite services for use in the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).
Amendments to Resolution MSC.509(105)/Rev.1 on the “Provision of Radio Services for the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS)” were adopted accordingly.
The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2028.
SOLAS Chapter V – VHF data exchange system (VDES)
MSC 111 adopted amendments to the navigation requirements in SOLAS Chapter V and the appendix to allow the voluntary carriage of a VHF data exchange system (VDES) as an alternative to an automatic identification system (AIS).
VDES, a digital communication system operating over the VHF band to provide secure and reliable data exchange between ships and between ships and shore, comprises of four components:
- An automatic identification system (AIS) component for the identification and tracking of vessels, along with additional communication capabilities
- An application-specific message (ASM) component
- A terrestrial component for VHF data exchange (VDE-TER)
- A satellite component for VHF data exchange (VDE-SAT)
The following associated resolutions and guidelines were adopted or approved accordingly:
- New MSC resolution on “Introduction of VHF data exchange system (VDES) into the IMO regulatory framework”
- New “Performance standards for shipborne VHF data exchange system (VDES)”
- New “Guidelines for the onboard operational use of shipborne VHF data exchange system (VDES)”
Similar amendments to the 1994 and 2000 High Speed Craft (HSC) Codes were also adopted.
The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2028; however, the carriage of VDES remains voluntary.
2011 ESP Code – remote inspection techniques (RIT)
MSC 111 adopted amendments to the International Code on the Enhanced Programme of Inspections during Survey of Bulk Carriers and Oil Tankers, 2011 (2011 ESP Code), introducing provisions for the use of remote inspection techniques (RITs) for close-up surveys of existing ships. RITs are defined as a means of survey of any part of the structure without the need for direct physical access by the attending surveyor and are distinct from remote surveys.
The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2028.
Related new guidelines for the use of RIT under the 2011 ESP Code were approved accordingly.
IP Code – dimensioning weight for industrial personnel
MSC 111 adopted amendments to the International Code of Safety for Ships Carrying Industrial Personnel (IP Code) to align the weight of persons used for stability calculations for ships certified according to SOLAS Chapter I with that used for ships certified according to the High Speed Craft (HSC) Code. Accordingly, the dimensioning weight for industrial personnel, including their PPE, will be consistently specified as 90 kg.
The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2028.
LSA Code – simulated launching of free-fall lifeboats
MSC 111 adopted amendments to the Life Saving Appliances (LSA) Code to address the use of simulation equipment (e.g. wires, chains) for the testing and maintenance of free-fall lifeboat release systems. The amendments require that such arrangements are designed and approved to account for the shock loading that may occur when the lifeboat comes to a sudden stop on the skid during simulated launching.
A new paragraph 4.7.7 specifies that the arrangements used to test the release system under load are to be designed with a minimum safety factor of 6, based on the calculated maximum working load and the ultimate strength of the materials used for construction.
Amendments to the following associated resolutions and guidelines were adopted or approved accordingly:
- Requirements for the Maintenance, Thorough Examination, Operational Testing, Overhaul and Repair of Lifeboats and Rescue Boats, Launching Appliances and Release Gear (Resolution MSC.402(96))
- Revised recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances (Resolution MSC.81(70))
- Revised guidelines for developing operation and maintenance manuals for lifeboat systems (MSC.1/Circ.1205/Rev.2)
- Unified Interpretations of paragraphs 4.4.7.6 and 4.7.7 of the LSA Code, as amended by Resolutions MSC.320(89) and MSC.[…(111)] (MSC.1/Circ.1529/Rev.2)
- Revised guidelines on safety during abandon ship drills using lifeboats (MSC.1/Circ.1578/Rev.1)
- Revised standardized life-saving appliance evaluation and test report forms (survival craft) (MSC.1/Circ.1630/Rev.4)
The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2028.
1988 Load Lines Protocol – guard rails
MSC 111 adopted amendments to Regulation 25(3) of the Load Lines Protocol requiring guard rails fitted on structures other than superstructures to have at least three courses. In addition, chains fitted in lieu of guard rails are required to be tightened as much as practicable and to be detachable.
The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2028.
IMDG Code
MSC 111 adopted amendment 43-26 of the International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code). The amendments include, inter alia, updates to the provisions for the carriage of batteries and clearer criteria for the transport of vehicles, including electric vehicles.
The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2028, with voluntarily early application from 1 January 2027.
Amendments to the “Revised emergency response procedures for ships carrying dangerous goods (EMS Guide)” (MSC.1/Circ.1588/Rev.3) were approved accordingly.
DECISIONS OF OTHER IMO BODIES
Maritime Cyber Code
MSC 111 approved a road map for the development of a non-mandatory Maritime Cyber Code under the Facilitation Committee (FAL). The MSC agreed to become an associated organ to this output and approved an intersessional working group under FAL to meet in 2027.
IMO Strategy on Maritime Digitalization
MSC 111 approved the IMO Strategy on Maritime Digitalization, developed by the Facilitation Committee (FAL 50), with a view for concurrent approval by MEPC 85 and adoption by Assembly 35 in 2027.
GOAL-BASED NEW SHIP CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS (GBS)
Goal-based standards (GBS) for the new ship construction of bulk carriers and oil tankers are, conceptually, the IMO’s rules for class rules. Under the GBS, IMO auditors use guidelines to verify that construction rules for bulk carriers and oil tankers of class societies acting as Recognized Organizations meet the goals and functional requirements as defined by the IMO.
Following the fourth GBS maintenance of verification audit, MSC 111 confirmed that the rules of all twelve IACS members, DNV included, and two non-IACS ROs (RS and BKI) continue to conform to the GBS for new ship construction of bulk carriers and oil tankers.
MARITIME AUTONOMOUS SURFACE SHIPS (MASS)
MSC 111 finalized and adopted a new International Code for Safety for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS Code), establishing a global regulatory framework for ships operating with remote control and autonomous functions.
The MASS Code aims to ensure the safe, secure and environmentally sound operation of such ships, while supporting the introduction and integration of new technologies into ship design and operations in a consistent and internationally harmonized manner.
The Code has been developed as a goal-based, technology-neutral instrument, complementing SOLAS and other existing IMO instruments, and focuses on areas not adequately addressed by the current regulatory framework.
Key features of the new code:
- Goal-based structure; defines goals, functional requirements and related expected performances
- Applies to cargo ships only
- Applies to individual autonomous or remote functions, even when crew are on board to perform other functions
- Requires risk assessment as part of the approval process
- Addresses the interaction between Remote Control Centers (ROC) and MASS
- A human master remains responsible for the ship.
- The master may not be on board but must have the ability to intervene.
Templates for the certificates for MASS and ROC are set out in the appendix to the code. A ROC is subject to certification by the flag administrations of the MASS it operates.
The new MASS Code was adopted as a non-mandatory instrument, with an entry into force date of 1 July 2026.
The code will form the basis for an Experience Building Phase (EBP), during which information on MASS applications will be collected, including operational data, data formats and access to data for stakeholders.
The experience gained will support the development of a mandatory MASS Code. However, the completion of the EBP is not a prerequisite for the adoption of the mandatory instrument. A mandatory code is planned to enter into force on 1 January 2032, at the earliest, but MSC 111 recognized that this timeline may need to be revisited at a later stage.
NEW TECHNOLOGIES AND ALTERNATIVE FUELS
MSC 110 concluded its consideration of potential alternative fuels and new technologies to support the reduction of greenhouse (GHG) emissions from ships from a safety perspective, including the identification of safety obstacles, barriers and gaps in existing IMO instruments that may hinder their use.
MSC 111 endorsed the related work plans for the recommendations assigned to the SDC and CCC Sub-Committees accordingly. The work plans include the following alternative fuels and new technologies:
- Sub-Committee on Ship Design and Construction (SDC):
Battery power - Wind propulsion and wind-assisted power
- Nuclear power
Sub-Committee on Carriage of Cargoes and Containers (CCC)
- Ammonia
- Hydrogen
- Methyl/ethyl alcohols
- Low-flashpoint oil fuels
- Fuel blends and mixtures
- Fuel cell power installations
- Onboard capture and storage (OCCS)
FORMAL SAFETY ASSESSMENT (FSA)
MSC 111 agreed that all FSA studies submitted to the IMO should be archived in the IMO’s online document management system IMODOCS to ensure easy accessibility and to increase their visibility in the IMO rule‑making process. The FSAs will be available under “Meeting Documents/Others”.
LONG-RANGE IDENTIFICATION AND TRACKING OF SHIPS
MSC 111 reviewed the financial architecture of the LRIT system, with a view to making key ship‑tracking data free for coastal states by updating the system’s cost model and rules.
MSC 111 approved, in principle, draft amendments to SOLAS Regulation V/19-1 to introduce the free-of-charge policy for the provision of LRIT information to entitled coastal states. A draft revision of the “Performance standards and functional requirements for the long-range identification and tracking of ships” (Resolution MSC.263(84)/Rev.1) was approved accordingly.
The draft amendments may enter into force on 1 January 2032, subject to adoption by MSC 112.
SHIP DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION
Safe Return to Port for passenger ships
The Safe Return to Port (SRtP) concept was introduced in SOLAS in 2010 with the intention to increase the robustness and fault tolerance of passenger ships. Even in the event of a flooding or fire casualty, the ship shall be able to return to port with its own machinery and provide a safe area for all the persons on board. The SRtP regulations apply to passenger ships with a length of 120 metres or more or with three or more main vertical zones.
MSC 111 approved “Explanatory Notes for Safe Return to Port and Orderly Evacuation and Abandonment after a Fire or Flooding Casualty” to facilitate uniform implementation of the concept, taking into account experience gained. The explanatory notes revise the current “Interim Explanatory
Notes for the Assessment of Passenger Ship Systems’ Capabilities After a Fire or Flooding Casualty” (MSC.1/Circ.1369).
The revision of the explanatory notes expands the scope of the guidance beyond that set out in MSC.1/Circ.1369 to cover the full life cycle of passenger ships – from design and verification to
testing and operational aspects, including the following:
- Essential aspects to be addressed in the pre-contract/early project phase
- Design requirements and acceptance criteria for all SRtP and OEA systems
- The SRtP assessment process
- Documentation, verification and approval
- Tests and trials
- On-board documentation for SRtP and OEA
- High-level operational aspects
The new explanatory notes shall apply to ships:
- for which the building contract is placed on or after 1 January 2028, or
- in the absence of a building contract, the keel of which is laid or which is at a similar stage of construction on or after 1 July 2028, or
- the delivery of which is on or after 1 January 2032.
The Sub-Committees on Human Element, Training and Watchkeeping (HTW) and Implementation of IMO Instruments (III) will be invited to consider whether existing instruments on operational aspects need to be amended to support the new explanatory notes.
2011 ESP Code
Fraction detection procedures
MSC 111 approved, in principle, draft amendments to the 2011 ESP Code to harmonize the fracture detection procedures between bulk carrier and oil tankers. The option for “other equivalent means” to paragraph 5.4.2 will now be included in of both Parts A and B of Annex A.
The draft amendments are expected to enter into force on 1 January 2032, subject to approval by MCS 113 together with any other amendments to the code and adoption by MSC 114.
Means of access to the cargo hold of single-side skin bulk carriers
MSC 111 approved draft amendments to the “Technical provisions for means of access for inspections” (Resolution MSC.133(76), as amended by Resolution MSC.158(78)) to align
the provisions regarding the use of portable ladders with the requirements of the 2011 ESP Code.
The draft amendments are expected to enter into force on 1 January 2032, subject to adoption by MSC 112.
Engine Control Room Alert Management (ECRAM)
MSC 111 endorsed the road map for development of ECRAM performance standards. The initiative intends to mitigate the risks of engine control room operators being overwhelmed by alarms during critical situations, increasing the risk of human error and delayed response.
The road map indicates finalization of new performance standards by 2028.
Fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) elements within ship structures
MSC 111 approved a revision of the “Interim Guidelines for Use of Fibre Reinforced Plastics (FRP) Elements Within Ship Structures: Fire Safety Issues” (MSC.1/Circ.1574) to address experiences in application of the interim guidelines since their approval in 2017.
The revision is intended as a guidance regarding the assessment of the fire safety in the case of alternative designs. It addresses main fire safety aspects, including ignition potential of the FRP material, fire growth potential, firefighting strategies and equipment, and maintenance of the
insulation to protect the FRP.
Escape arrangements from the lower part of machinery spaces
MSC 111 noted that no safety issues had been demonstrated resulting from application of SOLAS Regulations II-2/13.4.1.1 and 13.4.2.1, and that no further work would be needed on the requirements on escape arrangements from the lower part of machinery spaces.
MSC 111 also approved amendments to MSC.1/Circ.1689, inviting PSC authorities to adopt a pragmatic approach in the inspection of such arrangements, reflecting the discussions.
2009 MODU Code
The Code for the Construction and Equipment of Mobile Offshore Drilling Units (2009 MODU Code) requires equipment on an open deck to be shut down upon explosion hazards (gas leaks) unless the equipment is intended to be operational after shutdown and therefore rated for operation in Zone 2 locations.
MSC 111 adopted amendments to paragraph 6.5 of the 2009 MODU Code to clarify the term “after shutdown” in the context of emergency shutdown systems with multiple levels of shutdown.
The amendments clarify that any equipment that must continue operating after emergency shutdowns must be either suitable for Zone 2 hazardous areas or subject to a conclusive risk assessment or be properly protected within enclosed spaces. Furthermore, it was clarified that the term “after shutdown” refers to any level of emergency shutdown and not only total shutdown of the unit.
The amendments will take effect from 1 January 2027.
HUMAN ELEMENT, TRAINING AND WATCHKEEPING
Training for seafarers on alternative fuels and new technologies
MSC 111 approved new “Interim guidelines on training for seafarers on ships using methyl/ethyl alcohol as fuel”, as well as new “Interim guidelines on training for seafarers on ships using ammonia as fuel”.
The fuel-specific guidelines support the generic “Interim guidelines on training for seafarers on ships using alternative fuels and new technologies to support the reduction of GHG emissions from international shipping” (STCW.7/Circ.25), which were approved by MSC 110 in 2025.
MSC 111 further endorsed the work plan for the further development of training provisions for seafarers on ships using alternative fuels and new technologies.
CARRIAGE OF CARGO AND CONTAINERS
Ships using hydrogen as fuel
MSC 111 approved “Interim guidelines for the safety of ships using hydrogen as fuel”.
Ships using ammonia cargo as fuel
MSC 111 approved “Interim guidelines for use of ammonia cargo as fuel on gas carriers”. These guidelines aim to support the safe handling of ammonia as fuel, with main focus on areas outside the cargo areas to ensure safety for the crew and ship.
IGC Code – ships carrying gases or low flashpoint fuels
MSC 111 approved draft amendments to the IGC Code to incorporate the large number of Unified Interpretations (UIs) developed since the latest major review of the code, which entered into force in 2016. The primary objective of the draft amendments is to remove ambiguity and promote the con-sistent implementation of the IGC Code requirements.
The draft amendments to the IGC Code are expected to enter into force on 1 July 2028, subject to adoption by MSC 112 (December 2026).
The draft amendments to the IGC Code will apply to ships constructed on or after 1 July 2028, i.e. ships:
- for which the building contract is placed on or after 1 July 2028; or
- in the absence of a building contract, the keels of which are laid or which are at a similar stage of construction on or after 1 January 2029; or
- the delivery of which is on or after 1 July 2032.
Draft amendments to the model form of the International Certificate of Fitness for the Carriage of Liquefied Gases in Bulk in Appendix 2 of the IGC Code were approved to reflect the three-date application provision.
The following MSC Circulars, containing UIs to the IGC Code, are expected to be suspended upon adoption and entry into force of the IGC Code amendments: MSC.1/Circ.1543, MSC.1/Circ.1559,
MSC.1/Circ.1590, MSC.1/Circ.1606, MSC.1/Circ.1617, MSC.1/Circ.1625, MSC.1/Circ.1651, MSC.1/Circ.1669 and MSC.1/Circ.1679.
IGF Code – ships using gaseous fuels
MSC 111 approved draft amendments to SOLAS Chapter II-1 to clarify that the International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code) applies to ships using gaseous fuels, whether they are low-flashpoint or not. A new definition of “gaseous fuels” was introduced accordingly.
Consequential draft amendments to the IGF Code were approved accordingly, including draft amendments to the definition of “low-flashpoint fuels”.
The draft amendments to SOLAS and the IGF Code are expected to enter into force on 1 July 2028, subject to adoption by MSC 112 (December 2026).
“One ship, one code” policy
The “one ship, one code” policy reflects the approach that a ship should be subject to only one safety code for gases or low-flashpoint liquids: either the IGC Code or the IGF Code. The intention is to apply one consistent safety philosophy and to avoid unintentional consequences that could arise from selecting requirements from various codes.
MSC 111 approved draft amendments to SOLAS Regulation II-1/56 to reinforce this approach by clarifying that the IGF Code is not applicable to gas carriers.
The IGC Code will continue to apply for IGC Code ships, including when they use cargo included in Chapter 19 of the IGC Code as fuel. Chapter 19 of the IGC Code defines the scope of the IGC Code by listing the products to which the code applies. For gases or low-flashpoint fuels not included in Chapter 19, ships subject to the IGC Code should take into account guidelines to be developed by the Organization for such cases.
Unified Interpretations (UIs) to the IGC Code
MSC 111 approved revised UIs of paragraphs 4.4.1, 4.5, 4.6.2.1 and 4.6.2.4 of the IGC Code and paragraphs 4.7.1, 4.7.3, 4.7.4.1 and 4.7.7 of the IGC Code related to the secondary barrier testing and effectiveness assessment, including how survey findings are to be evaluated.
Ships carrying liquefied hydrogen in bulk
MSC 111 adopted a revision of the “Interim recommendations for the carriage of liquefied hydrogen in bulk” (Resolution MSC.565(108)), adding a new Part D on cargo containment systems of a membrane-type cargo tank maintaining the insulation spaces under vacuum.
Loss or observation of drifting freight containers
MSC 111 encouraged member states to request the use of standardized templates for reporting the loss or observation of drifting freight containers, in accordance with the mandatory SOLAS reporting requirements that took effect on 1 January 2026.
NAVIGATION, COMMUNICATIONS, SEARCH & RESCUE
Procedure for responding to DSC distress alerts by ships
MSC 111 approved a revision of the “Procedure for Responding to DSC Distress Alerts by Ships” (MSC.1/Circ.1657/Rev.1). The revision aligns the operational procedures for responding to Digital Selective Calling (DSC) distress alerts with those prescribed in Recommendation ITU-R M.541-11 on “Operational Procedures for the Use of Digital Selective Calling Equipment in the Maritime Mobile Service”.
Augmentation systems in Worldwide Radionavigation System
Augmentation systems enhance the performance of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) by improving attributes such as precision, reliability and availability. These enhancements are commonly referred to as differential corrections and integrity monitoring.
MSC 111 adopted amendments to Resolution A.1046(27) on the Worldwide Radionavigation System. The amendments provide additional clarification paragraphs on augmentation systems in the introduction of the annex of the resolution and add relevant requirements for augmentation systems under “Operational requirements” in its appendix.
Software maintenance of shipboard equipment and systems
MSC 111 approved new guidelines for the software maintenance of shipboard computer-based navigation and communication equipment and systems. These guidelines are intended to ensure a controlled and standardized approach to software maintenance.
Electronic nautical publications (ENP)
SOLAS Regulations V/19.2.1.4 and V/19.2.1.5 require all ships to have nautical charts and nautical publications, including back-up arrangements if this function is partly or fully fulfilled by electronic means, to plan and display the ship’s route for the intended voyage and to plot and monitor positions throughout the voyage. Publications may be carried in the form of electronic media.
MSC 111 approved new guidelines on the carriage and use of the ENP systems.
BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS)
MSC 111 adopted a revision of Resolution MSC.379(93) on “Performance Standards for Shipborne BeiDou Satellite Navigation System (BDS) Receiver Equipment” to align the performance standards with the current service and performance of BDS.
POLLUTION PREVENTION AND RESPONSE
Safety and pollution hazards of chemicals
MSC 111 approved draft amendments to the IBC Code to incorporate entries in List 1 of the MEPC.2/Circular. The amendments include the application of special requirement 16.2.7 to twelve additional products and two new tank cleaning additives.
IMPLEMENTATION OF IMO INSTRUMENTS
Lessons learned from marine casualties
MSC 111 endorsed the issuance of Circular III.3/Circ.14 on “Lessons learned from marine casualties”. The circular contains 36 lessons learned from marine casualties.
MSC 111 also endorsed the issuance of Circular III.3/Circ.15 on “Casualty Analysis and Statistics – observations on reports of investigation into casualties”. The circular summarizes the analysis of 39 individual casualty reports, identifying that the major contributing factors were related to management, risk assessment, safety culture and training.
A new MSC circular on the casualty analysis process and procedure on casualty investigation reports and data-based studies was approved. The circular intends to support the rule-making process regarding the IMO’s work related to casualty investigation reports and data-based studies.
Remote surveys, ISM audits and ISPS verifications
MSC 111 approved “Guidance on remote surveys, ISM audits and ISPS verifications”.
Remote surveys
The guidance allows portions of surveys to be carried out remotely, based on a risk assessment and the eligibility of the item for using remote methods. However, remote surveys cannot be performed for two consecutive years for the same survey items. In all cases, the survey plan needs to be approved by the flag administration.
Remote surveys are not accepted for SOLAS safety certificates and the International Load Lines Certificate for passenger ships.
International Safety Management (ISM) Code audits
ISM Code shipboard audits cannot be fully replaced by remote audits, and physical attendance will always be needed under normal circumstances.
Initial, renewal and interim company audits need physical attendance. Remote methods may be considered for annual audits and for interim audits when adding a new ship type to an existing Document of Compliance (DOC).
The performance of remote audits will need approval from the flag administration, and the audit plan needs to be sent well in advance to the flag administration for review and approval.
International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code verifications
ISPS Code verifications can, only under exceptional circumstances, be carried out remotely, and only selected items are eligible for remote verification even in the exceptional circumstances.
UI of “completion date of the survey”
MSC 111 approved a revision of MSC-MEPC.5/Circ.3 on UIs of the date of completion of the survey and verification on which the certificates are based. The revised UI clarifies that the “based on date” shall be the date of the initial or renewal survey.
WORK PROGRAMME
MSC 111 agreed on the following new work items:
Sub-Committee on Ship Systems and Equipment
Safety harnesses in free-fall lifeboats
MSC 111 agreed to amend paragraph 4.6.3.1 of the LSA Code to remove ambiguity in safety harnesses’ colour requirements for free-fall lifeboats.
Ventilation rates in container cargo spaces for dangerous goods
MSC 111 agreed to amend paragraph 3.5.4 and table 19.1 of SOLAS Regulation II-2/19 to clarify the cases in which reduced ventilation rates are allowed in container cargo spaces carrying dangerous goods.
Sub-Committee on Carriage for Cargoes and Containers
MSC 111 agreed to amend the “Recommendations on the safe use of pesticides in ships applicable to the fumigation of cargo holds” (MSC.1/Circ.1264/Rev.1) and the “Recommendations on the safe use of pesticides in ships” (MSC.1/Circ.1358/Rev.1).
Sub-Committee on Implementation of IMO Instruments
MSC 111 agreed to revise MSC-MEPC.3/Circ.4/Rev.1 on casualty-related matters in the context of reports on marine casualties and incidents.
ANY OTHER BUSINESS
International Quality Assessment Review Body (IQARB)
MSC 111 noted updated information on developments regarding the International Quality Assessment Review Body (IQARB). QARB assesses the performance of ROs to very and certify their conformity with applicable international quality standards. The Terms of Reference of an IMO observer to IQARB was agreed.
Cyber resilience guidelines
MSC 111 approved a revision of the “Guidelines on maritime cyber risk management” (MSC-FAL.1/Circ.3/Rev.3) to reference the IAPH “Cyber resilience guidelines for emerging technologies in the maritime supply chain” under section 4.3.
Recommendations
MSC 111 was the final session for adopting amendments to the 2028 update of SOLAS and related mandatory codes. DNV class customers are encouraged to visit the Compliance Planner to monitor how upcoming statutory requirements will impact their ships.
The next session of the MSC will commence adoption of amendments for the 2032 update of SOLAS.
