Maritime Safety Committee - 109th session (MSC 109), 2-6 December 2024

The Maritime Safety Committee met for its 109th session at IMO Headquarters in London (in-person with hybrid participation) from 2 to 6 December 2024. The meeting was chaired by Mrs. Mayte Medina of the United States, supported by Vice-Chair, Capt. Theofilos Mozas of Greece.

Secretary-General’s opening remarks / closing remarks
Photo gallery

MSC 109 highlights

Attacks against seafarers and international shipping
Amendments adopted to IGC and IGF Codes
Goal-based new ship construction standards - audit outcomes
Roadmap updated for the development of a MASS Code
Progress on developing of a GHG safety regulatory framework
Cyber risk management
Measures to enhance maritime security - updates
Piracy and armed robbery against ships - updates
Guidelines on the recovery of deceased people approved
Revised guidelines for formal safety assessment (FSA) approved
Reports of Sub-Committees - various provisions approved

1. Attacks against seafarers and international shipping

The Committee heard various statements delivered by Member States about the ongoing attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea area and the Black Sea area.

The Committee expressed concern over the safety and welfare of seafarers, freedom of navigation, threats to the marine environment and stability of the global supply chain resulting from the attacks by Houthis on commercial ships in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.

The Committee reiterated the call for the immediate release of the MV Galaxy Leader and its 25 seafarers which have remained captive since its hijacking in November 2023, marking a year of imprisonment of innocent seafarers.

The Committee expressed gratitude to the European Union for the support provided through Operation ASPIDES, as well as all Member States providing assets to the region.

The Committee commended the IMO Secretary-General's strong commitment and efforts, including his recent visit to the countries in the region, to re-establish safety and security in the Red Sea and the immediate release of the MV Galaxy Leader. The Committee also took note of statements related to the Black Sea area.

2. Amendments to mandatory IGC and IGF Codes adopted

The Committee adopted amendments to the following mandatory Codes under SOLAS:

International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code)

The Committee adopted amendments to Chapter 16 of the IGC Code, related to the use as fuel of cargoes identified as toxic products, in the context of alternative fuels and new technologies. The amendments are expected to enter into force on 1 July 2026.

The Committee approved an MSC circular on the voluntary early application of the IGC Code, associated with these amendments.

International Code of Safety for Ship Using Gases or Other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code)

The Committee adopted amendments to parts A and A-1 of the IGF Code relate to ship design, fire safety, ventilation and other safety issues. The amendments are expected to enter into force on 1 January 2028.

Noting that there may be capacity-building implications in relation to these amendments to the IGC and IGF Codes, the Committee agreed to advise the Technical Cooperation Committee accordingly and encourage Member States in need of capacity-building assistance to contact IMO.

3. Goal-based new ship construction standards – audit outcomes

Under the International Goal-based Ship Construction Standards for Bulk Carriers and Oil Tankers (GBS Standards), construction rules for ships, developed by classification societies or national administrations, must be verified. This verification is carried out by international GBS Audit Teams appointed by the IMO Secretary-General, in line with the Revised GBS verification guidelines (resolution MSC.454(100)).

In 2024, a combined GBS audit was carried out, with the following outcomes:

Initial GBS Verification Audit of Biro Klasifikasi Indonesia (BKI)

Following consideration, the Committee confirmed that the information provided by BKI demonstrated conformity with the IMO's GBS standards, provided that BKI adopt the relevant actions to rectify "non-conformities", and submit a new request for an audit, in accordance with the Revised GBS verification guidelines.

GBS Audit of IACS Recommendation 34/Rev.2 on Standard wave data

Following consideration of IACS Recommendation 34/Rev.2, the Committee did not find enough evidence of compliance with relevant GBS standards. The Committee recommended a revision of IACS Rec.34/Rev.2, containing more detailed information.

The information contained in IACS Recommendation 34/Rev.2 is intended to provide the basis for the development of IACS Common Structural Rules (CSR) around wave induced loads and motions.

The Committee agreed that a “following audit” on the IACS Rec.34 revision be subsequently carried out, in conjunction with that of the consequential rule changes in CSR.

Third GBS Workshop

The Committee requested the Secretariat to plan and prepare for the third GBS Workshop, tentatively scheduled to take place in 2025, after MSC 110 (18 – 27 June, 2025).

4. Roadmap revised for the development of a Code for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS)

The Committee continued its work to develop a Code to regulate autonomous ships, with re-establishing the WG on MASS. The Committee noted the progress at the WG, in particular it finalized chapters 7 (Risk Assessment), 12 (Connectivity), which was relocated to new chapter 17bis, and 18 (Search and Rescue) of the draft MASS Code.

Given the remaining work to be done, the Committee agreed to a revised road map for developing the MASS Code, subject to further revision when necessary:

May 2026 - finalize and adopt non-mandatory MASS Code;
December 2026 - develop a framework for an Experience-building phase (EBP) post adoption of the non-mandatory MASS Code;
2028 - commence development of the mandatory MASS Code, based on the non-mandatory Code and result from the EBP and review conducted by the relevant sub-committees, and consider amendments to SOLAS (new chapter) for the Code's adoption;
By 1 July 2030 - adoption of the mandatory Code, for entry into force on 1 Jan 2032.

5. Development of a safety regulatory framework to support the reduction of GHG emissions from ships using new technologies and alternative fuels

The Committee received an update on the work of the Correspondence Group on Development of a Safety Regulatory Framework to Support the Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships using New Technologies and Alternative Fuels (GHG safety).

The Correspondence Group, established at MSC 108, has been working on capturing detailed information (technical background, hazards, and risks to ship/shoreside) for the new technologies and alternative fuels. Safety obstacles and gaps in existing regulations are also being assessed.

The Committee endorsed the addition of a new category on "swappable traction lithium-ion battery containers" to the list of new technologies developed by the Correspondence Group. The Correspondence Group will continue work intersessionally and report to MSC 110.

Amendments to SOLAS Chapter II-1 on the application of IGF Code approved

While the International Code of Safety for Ships Using Gases or Other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code) applies to fuels that are gases or have a low-flash point, SOLAS Chapter II-1 states that the IGF Code applies to ships using low-flashpoint fuels, regardless of whether they were in liquid or gaseous form.

The Committee approved draft amendments to Chapter II-1 of the SOLAS Convention to clarify that the IGF Code applies to gaseous fuels or low flash-point fuels.

The approved SOLAS amendments will be submitted with a view to adoption at MSC 110 in June 2025, with expected entry into force in 2027.

6. Cyber risk management

The Committee advanced its work to identify next steps to enhance maritime cybersecurity, following the approval by MSC 108 of the revised Guidelines on Maritime Cyber Risk Management (MSC-FAL.1/Circ.3/Rev.2)

The Committee agreed on the need to further develop cybersecurity standards for ships and port facilities, with the possibility of establishing a working group at MSC 110, pending submissions under this agenda item.

The Committee invited Member States and international organizations to submit proposals for consideration on the next steps to enhance maritime cybersecurity; and extended the target completion of the output to 2026.

7. Measures to enhance maritime security - updates

The Committee noted updates on key developments in the IMO’s work to enhance maritime security. This includes information about the submission of security-related information for port facilities in GISIS, and a report on capacity-building projects and initiatives implemented by the Secretariat, including:

Global Enhancement of Maritime Security programme;
EU-funded Port Security Project;
United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Coordination Compact.

8. Piracy and armed robbery against ships - updates

The Committee received an update on developments related to piracy and armed robbery against ships. This includes reports on acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships for the first six months of 2024, and recent developments related to regional initiatives such as the Djibouti Code of Conduct/Jeddah Amendment and Yaoundé Code of Conduct.

According to information received on IMO's GISIS platform, 72 incidents of piracy and armed robbery against ships were reported to IMO as having occurred or been attempted in January to June 2024. For the same period in 2023, 90 incidents were reported. This constitutes a decrease of approximately 20% at the global level compared to the same period in 2023.

The areas most affected by acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships in January to June 2024 were the Straits of Malacca and Singapore area (37), Indian Ocean (13), West Africa (10), Arabian Sea (7), followed by the South China Sea (4) and South America (Atlantic) (1).

See all IMO piracy reports

9. Guidelines on the recovery of deceased people approved

The Committee approved the MSC-FAL circular on Guidelines concerning the recovery of deceased persons and of death after recovery. This will be forwarded to the Facilitation Committee (FAL) for its concurrent approval.

The guidelines address the need for awareness about the proper handling of non-survivors in migrant boats, supplementing resolution MSC.528 (106) on Recommended cooperation to ensure the safety of life at sea, the rescue of persons in distress at sea and the safe disembarkation of survivors.

This includes legal and cultural considerations, as well as paying due respect to the practice of the migrants, the local public health policies in handling a deceased person among survivors rescued in a migrant boat; and considerations in handing over bodies between various organizations.

10. Revised guidelines for formal safety assessment (FSA) approved

The Committee approved the Revised guidelines for Formal Safety Assessment (FSA) for use in the IMO rule-making process, for dissemination as MSC-MEPC.2/Circ.12/Rev.3, subject to concurrent approval by MEPC 83.

A Formal Safety Assessment (FSA) is a structured and systematic methodology aimed at enhancing maritime safety, by using risk analysis and cost-benefit assessment. FSAs can be used as a tool to help in the evaluation of new maritime regulations.

The revision of the Revised guidelines updates various sections, including among others, updating methods, list of references and the flow chart of the FSA methodology.

11. Reports of Sub-Committees

The Committee considered the reports of its Sub-Committees:

Sub-Committee on ship systems and equipment (SSE) - 10th session
Carriage of Cargoes and Containers (CCC) - 10th session
Implementation of IMO Instruments (III) - 10th session
Navigation, Communications and Search and Rescue (NCSR) - 11th session
Pollution Prevention and Response (PPR) - 11th session

The Committee approved the reports in general and took the following actions:

Sub-Committee on ship systems and equipment (SSE 10)

Amendments to 1994 and 2000 HSC Codes

approved the draft amendments to the 1994 and 2000 HSC Codes on lifejacket carriage requirements, taking into account the associated check/monitoring sheet and the record format, with a view to adoption by MSC 110 with expected entry into force on 1 January 2028. This is for the harmonization of the lifejacket carriage requirements in the 1994 and 2000 HSC Codes with the relevant requirements in SOLAS chapter III.

Revision of SOLAS chapter III and the LSA Code

endorsed the road map to facilitate drafting of related functional requirements and expected performances for SOLAS chapter III and the LSA Code.

Unified interpretations (UI)

approved UI of SOLAS regulations III/20.8.4 and 20.11, and resolution MSC.402(96), on the applicability of SOLAS regulation III/20.11 and resolution MSC.402(96) to inflated rescue boats
approved UI of SOLAS regulation II-2/4.5.6.1, and paragraphs 3.1.2, 3.1.4 and 3.5.3 of the IBC Code, on cargo/vapour piping and related gas-freeing piping/ducts on Tankers
approved UI of SOLAS chapter II-2, on consistent application of SOLAS regulation II-2/11.4.1 on the crown of a machinery space of category A; as well as SOLAS regulations II-2/4.5.3.2.2 and 11.6.3.2 on the secondary means of venting cargo tanks
approved Revised UIs of SOLAS chapter II-2, rectifying an oversight regarding references to SOLAS regulation II-2/9.7.5.1, with a view to dissemination as MSC.1/Circ.1276/Rev.2
approved UI of SOLAS chapter II-1, on SOLAS regulation II-1/26 concerning single essential propulsion components

Amendments emanating from assumed weight in self-righting tests and retro- reflective materials

adopted amendments to the Revised recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances (resolution MSC.81(70)), concerning assumed weight used to represent each person in self-righting tests for totally enclosed lifeboats
approved the following circulars with the effective date of 15 August 2025, incorporating consequential amendments:

MSC.1/Circ.1628/Rev.3 on Revised standardized life-saving appliance evaluation and test report forms (personal life-saving appliances);
MSC.1/Circ.1630/Rev.3 on Revised standardized life-saving appliance evaluation and test report forms (survival craft);
MSC.1/Circ.1631/Rev.1 on Revised standardized life-saving appliance evaluation and test report forms (rescue boats); and
MSC.1/Circ.1632/Rev.1 on Revised standardized life-saving appliance evaluation and test report forms (launching and embarkation appliances).

Revision of MSC.1/Circ.677

approved MSC.1/Circ.677/Rev.1 on Revised standards for the design, testing and locating of devices to prevent the passage of flame into cargo tanks in tankers, with the effective date of 4 December 2026.

Minor correction to SOLAS regulation II-2/11

approved the draft amendments to SOLAS regulation II-2/11, for consistent implementation of this provision for passenger ships and cargo ships, as a minor correction, with a view to adoption at MSC 110.

Sub-Committee on navigation, communications and search and rescue (NCSR 11)

Ships' routeing measures

adopted, in accordance with resolution A.858(20), the amended traffic separation schemes and associated measures "In the approaches to Hook of Holland and at North Hinder", the revised recommendation on navigation for containerships in traffic separation schemes Off Vlieland, Terschelling-German Bight, Off Friesland and German Bight western approach, and the areas to be avoided around oil rigs off the Brazilian coast – Santos Basin, to be implemented six months after their adoption.

Revision of resolution A.707(17)

approved the draft Assembly resolution on charges for distress, urgency and safety communications through recognized mobile satellite services in the GMDSS, revising and revoking resolution A.707(17), with a view to adoption by A 34.

Amendments to the IAMSAR manual

approved the draft MSC circular on amendments to the IAMSAR Manual, taking into account ICAOʹs concurrence with the inclusion of the proposed amendments to the Manual in its 2025 Edition

Revision of SAR.7/Circ.15

endorsed the approval of SAR.7/Circ.16 on List of documents and publications which should be held by a Maritime or Joint Rescue Coordination Centre

Performance standards for a digital navigational data system (NAVDAT)

adopted MSC resolution on performance standards for the reception of maritime safety information and search and rescue-related information by MF and HF digital navigational data (NAVDAT) system and resolution MSC.509(105)/Rev.1 on provision of radio services for the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).

Revision of resolution A.1001(25)

approved the draft Assembly resolution on Criteria for the provision of mobile satellite communication systems in the GMDSS, revising and revoking resolution A.1001(25) and MSC.1/Circ.1414, with a view to adoption by A 34.

Pilot transfer arrangements

approved the draft amendments to SOLAS regulation V/23 and the appendix (Certificates), the associated draft MSC resolution on Performance standards for pilot transfer arrangements, and the consequential draft amendments to the 1994 and 2000 HSC Codes, with a view to adoption by MSC 110;
following adoption of the above draft amendments to SOLAS regulation V/23 and the draft MSC resolution on performance standards for pilot transfer arrangements, the Committee will invite A 34 to revoke resolutions A.1045(27) and A.1108(29) at a later date to be determined;
approved, in principle, the consequential draft amendments to the 2008 SPS Code, with a view to final adoption by MSC 110;
agreed to the draft revision of MSC.1/Circ.1428, with a view to approval by MSC 110;
approved, in principle, to the draft amendments to the Code of Safety for Fishermen and Fishing Vessels, 2005, subject to concurrent approval of the draft amendments by ILO and FAO, with a view to final approval by MSC 110;
approved, in principle, the MSC circular on Voluntary early implementation of the amendments to SOLAS regulation V/23 on pilot transfer arrangements, with a view to final approval in conjunction with the adoption of the draft amendments to SOLAS regulation V/23

Revision of resolution MSC.74(69), annex 3

adopted MSC resolution on Performance standards for a universal shipborne automatic identification system (AIS), revising annex 3 to resolution MSC.74(69), and applicable to new installations.

Other circulars

approved the SN circular on IALA Maritime Buoyage System, revising and revoking SN.1/Circ.297, and the SN circular on IALA Risk Management Toolbox for aids to navigation and vessel traffic services, revising and revoking SN.1/Circ.296
approved the MSC circular on Guidance on the validity of radiocommunications equipment installed and used on ships, to be disseminated as MSC.1/Circ.1460/Rev.5

Sub-Committee on the carriage of cargoes and containers (CCC 10)

Interim guidelines for the safety of ships using ammonia as fuel

approved MSC.1/Circular on Interim Guidelines for the safety of ships using ammonia as fuel.

Updated work plan for the development of new alternative fuels

endorsed the updated work plan for the development of new alternative fuels.

Draft amendments to the IGC Code and preparation of a new consolidated version of the Code

approved draft amendments to the IGC Code, in relation to filling limits for cargo tanks and safety provisions for gas carriers using LPG cargo as fuel, with a view to circulation in accordance with SOLAS article VIII and subsequent adoption at MSC 110.
with regard to preparation of a new consolidated version of the IGC Code, requested the Secretariat to submit an information document to MSC 110, highlighting all existing and pending amendments to the 2014 IGC Code, including a table of application dates of provisions for consideration, as appropriate.

Sub-Committee on Implementation of IMO Instruments (III 10)

Interim guidelines on Cape Town Agreement on fishing vessel safety

adopted Interim Guidance to assist in the implementation of the Cape Town Agreement of 2012. This completes the work on this output.

Preventing collisions with fishing vessels

approved MSC circular on Recommendations to national Administrations to prevent collisions with fishing vessels, which was developed taking into account the findings of the analysis of investigation reports and the survey circulated through III.3/Circ.12 on Casualty investigation questionnaire on fishing vessel collisions (2018-2022).

Observations on quality of investigation reports

endorsed, subject to a concurrent decision by MEPC, the issuance of a circular III.3/Circ.13 on Casualty analysis and statistics – observations on the quality of investigation reports

Analysis of consolidated audit summary reports (CASRs)

endorsed, subject to a concurrent decision by MEPC, the outcome of the analysis of the six CASRs, regarding the five main areas of recurrent findings and observations identified by the sections of the III Code and their detailed specific related issues;
endorsed, subject to a concurrent decision by MEPC, the outcome of the analysis of the most recurrent references recorded against specific provisions of the mandatory IMO instruments, which identified the lack in their effective implementation
concurred with the four main areas of root causes, indicating reasons for the shortfall in the effective implementation and enforcement of the mandatory IMO instruments and the audit standard, including the specific issues/difficulties under each area.

Sub-Committee on Pollution Prevention and Response (PPR 11)

noted the invitation to the SSE Sub-Committee to consider a requirement for new crude oil tankers in relation to Pressure/Vacuum (P/V) valves.

12. Domestic ferry safety

The Committee noted the recent activities and initiatives undertaken with respect to enhancing domestic ferry safety, particularly in the context of partnerships with the Maritime Organization of West and Central Africa (MOWCA), the Pacific Community (SPC), World Maritime University (WMU), INTERFERRY and the Lloyd’s Register Foundation.

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