International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) maritime safety committee (MSC) is to adopt amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), relating to gas-fuelled ships.
MSC will discuss the draft International Code of Safety for Ships using gases or other low-flashpoint fuels (IGF Code), to reduce the risks posed to the ship, crew and environment.
The committee will meet for its 95th session between 3 to 12 June, and will also discuss cyber security matters and passenger ship safety.
IGF Code will comprise mandatory provisions for arrangement, installation, control and monitoring of machinery, equipment and systems using low-flashpoint fuels.
IMO said in a statement: "The code addresses all areas that need special consideration for the usage of low-flashpoint fuels, taking a goal-based approach, with goals and functional requirements specified for each section forming the basis for the design, construction and operation of ships using this type of fuel."
With respect to cyber security, the MSC will consider various submissions, including a proposal to develop voluntary guidelines on cyber security practices to protect and strengthen the resiliency of cyber systems that support maritime transportation system.
The committee will also review reported piracy and armed robbery against ships. The session is expected to approve new ship routing measures to protect sensitive areas in the south-west Coral Sea, off Australia.
Amendments to International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) will also be discussed at the session, including mandatory requirements for training and qualifications of personnel on ships subject to the IGF Code.
The MSC will consider amendments to the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) to improve provisions for concentrates or other cargoes and specially constructed cargo ships for confining cargo shift.
Image: Personal safety ring on a ship. Photo: courtesy of International Maritime Organization (IMO).
