Maritime Safety Committee 111th Session (MSC 111) Summary Report

The Maritime Safety Committee 111 was held in hybrid mode from the 13th to the 22nd of May. 

This MSC 111 was also marked by extensive discussions on maritime safety and security in the Strait of Hormuz following the substantive debates at the previous MEPC. The politicization of discussions further led to a vote on the adoption of a resolution condemning the actions of the Islamic Republic of Iran. These debates also reflected a deteriorated international context, further characterized by numerous incidents involving vessels from dark fleets. 

However, the General Secretary emphasized three achievements: the adoption of the MASS code as a ‘historic milestone’ boosting innovation while keeping the human element at the core of maritime navigation, the development of the GHG Safety regulatory framework and the full integration of the one ship one code policy, and the financial architecture of the LRIT which will benefit from a more robust framework. 

Several resolutions and circulars were adopted and are listed in the appendix to this report. The Committee adopted: 

• the MASS Code (non-mandatory) with an entry into effect on 1 July 2026
• amendments to SOLAS chapters IV and V, and the appendix (VHF exchange data system (VDES) with EIF the 1/1/2028
• amendments to the 2011 ESP Code (use of remote inspection technique) with EIF the 1/1/2028;
• amendments to the 1994 HSC Code (addition of VDES) with EIF the 1/1/2028; • amendments to the 2000 HSC Code (addition of VDES) with EIF the 1/1/2028 ;
• amendments to the IMDG Code (updated Code entering into force the 1/1/2028);
• amendments to the IP Code (implementation dates in stability calculation based on 90kg per each industrial personnel with EIF the 1/1/2028 ;
• amendments to the LSA Code (application dates for MSC resolutions related to LSA code);
• amendments to the Requirements for maintenance, thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair of lifeboats and rescue boats, launching appliances and release gear (resolution MSC.402(96);
• amendments to the 1988 Load Lines Protocol (setting of guardrails on the deck structure) with EIF the 1/1/2028;
• resolution MSC.509(105)/Rev.2 on provision of radio services for the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS);
• resolution on introduction of the VHF data exchange system (VDES) into the IMO regulatory framework;
• performance standards for shipborne VHF data exchange system (VDES); • amendments to the Revised recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances (resolution MSC.81(70)). 

The Committee also approved: 

• amendments to SOLAS chapter II-1 and the IGF Code, with a view to adoption at MSC 112 (“one ship, one code policy” applied to the use of alternative fuels);
• amendments to the IGC Code, with a view to adoption at MSC 112 (consolidated amendments which were rediscussed at CCC11 and presented in the table in the annex); • Interim guidelines for use of ammonia cargo as fuel;
• Guidelines for the onboard operational use of shipborne VHF data exchange system (VDES);
• revised emergency response procedures for ships carrying dangerous goods (EmS Guide);
• revised guidelines for developing operation and maintenance manuals for lifeboat systems;
• 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) (concerning lifeboat release and retrieval systems);
• Revised guidelines on safety during abandon ship drills using lifeboats;
• Revised standardized life-saving appliance evaluation and test report forms (survival craft);
• Guidelines on the use of remote inspection techniques (RIT) for ESP Code surveys;
• A reviewed circular on Escape arrangements from the lower part of machinery spaces (SOLAS regulations II-2/13.4.1 and 13.4.2) 

The Committee approved amendments to SOLAS V/19-1 to adjust the financial architecture of the LRIT system to promote better utilization of the LRIT system by coastal States. However, these amendments, slated for adoption at MSC 112, will not enter into force before 1 January 2032 and major flag states (Bahamas, Panama, the Marshall Island and Liberia) have expressed reservations

 The Committee endorsed the work plan for the development of a safety regulatory framework to support the reduction of GHG emissions from ships using new technologies and alternative. It agreed on the transfer of batteries energy storage systems elaboration of interim guidelines from SSE to SDC sub-committee.