Dear SYBAss member
The 108th session of the Maritime Safety Committee took place in London from 15 to 24 May 2024. I attended the entire Committee to represent SYBAss and have summarised the meeting highlights below.
- Adoption of the amendments to SOLAS and the FSS Code to enhance the fire safety of Ro-Ro passenger ships.
- Adoption of SOLAS amendments to extend the requirements for emergency towing equipment to all new ships over 20,000 GT.
- Approval of draft amendments to the IGC Code to enable the use of ammonia as fuel on ammonia carriers.
- Approval of goals and functional requirements for electrical and machinery installations in SOLAS Chapter II-1.
- Further work on the new non-mandatory International Code of Safety for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS Code).
- Discussion on the safety of alternative fuels and new technologies to support the reduction of GHG emissions from ships.
The following notes are a more detailed summary of the relevant topics and outcomes discussed. Please note that the presented information reflects the status at the time of MSC 108 and may change as a result of ongoing developments. It is also uncertain at this time whether the mentioned amendments or new regulations will eventually be adopted in future versions of the Red Ensign Group Yacht Codes or other flag codes.
Best regards
Lorenzo Pollicardo
Technical & Environmental Director