Working together
for a safer world
IMO Maritime Safety Committee
Ninety Sixth Session (MSC 96)
Summary Report
Introduction
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The 96 session of the IMO Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 96) was held from 11 to 20 May 2016, at the IMO
headquarters in London. This briefing summarises subjects under discussion which are relevant to the work of Lloyd's
Register.
Overview
Many of the decisions taken at MSC 96 have some impact on current practices which can be found in detail under the
relevant agenda items.
Summary of discussions
The following agenda items are relevant to the work of Lloyd’s Register.
Decisions of other IMO Bodies (Agenda item 2)
MSC 96 noted that IMO Assembly 29 adopted the following resolutions developed by the Committee:
- A.1104 (29) Survey Guidelines under the Harmonized System of Survey and Certification (HSSC), 2015
- A.1105 (29) 2015 Non-exhaustive list of obligations under instruments relevant to the IMO Instruments
Implementation Code (resolution A.1070 (28))
- A.1106 (29) Revised guidelines for the onboard operational use of shipborne automatic identification systems
(AIS)
- A.1107 (29) Entry into force and Implementation of the 2012 Cape Town Agreement
- A.1108 (29) Amendments to the Recommendation on Pilot Transfer Arrangements (resolution A.1045 (27))
Consideration and adoption of amendments to mandatory instruments (Agenda item 3)
MSC 96 adopted the mandatory instruments introduced here. Associated non-mandatory instruments were also
addressed under this agenda item.
Amendments to the 1974 SOLAS Convention and associated instruments
Chapter II-2 of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974, as amended
Construction – Fire Protection, Fire Detection and Fire Extinction
Regulation 3 - Definitions
Regulation 13 - Means of escape (evacuation analysis). The amendments add new paragraphs which refer to the
evacuation analysis for passenger ships and escape route evaluation. The new regulation specifies that escape
routes shall be evaluated early in the design process and is applicable to ro-ro passenger ships constructed on or
after 1 July 1999 and other passenger ships constructed on or after 1 January 2020 carrying more than 36
passengers. MSC 96 agreed that ro-ro passenger ships constructed on or after 1 July 1999 and before the date
of entry into force of the proposed amendments which have already been evaluated need not be re-evaluated.
Regulation 18 – Helicopter facilities. These are consequential amendments to reflect the requirements of the
new Chapter 17.
Chapter III of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974, as amended
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Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements
Regulation 3 – Definitions
Regulation 20 – Operational readiness, maintenance and inspections. These are the new requirements for
maintenance, thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair of lifeboats and rescue boats,
launching appliances and release gear.
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These amendments to SOLAS will enter into force 1 January 2020
The International Code on the Enhanced Programme of Inspections during Surveys of Bulk Carriers and Oil
Tankers, 2011 (2011 ESP Code). The ESP Code is based on IACS Unified Requirements UR Z10.1, UR Z10.2, UR
Z10.4 and UR Z10.5. As the IACS documents get updated so the ESP Code requires updating to keep them in line with
each other. These amendments update the ESP Code to make reference to the new resolution A.1050 (27) which is
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also concerned with enclosed space entry and will enter into force 1 January 2018.
The International Code for Fire Safety Systems (FSS Code),
- Chapter 8 - Automatic sprinkler, fire detection and fire alarm systems. These amendments refer to the
specification of water quality required by the manufacturer to prevent internal corrosion of sprinklers.
- Chapter 17 - Helicopter facility foam firefighting appliances, which is the new Chapter 17 of the FSS Code.
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These amendments will enter into force 1 January 2020
Amendments to the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code
List of Contents, Forward, Preamble and Parts 1, 2 and 4 to 7
Parts 3, Dangerous Goods List, Appendices A and B and Index
The amendments include the following:
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New special provisions for the marine transport of vehicles fitted with lithium batteries;
Revision of the requirements for placarding containers to ensure durability for three months marine voyage;
Changes to some of the codes to introduce consistency of requirements for similar cargoes; and
Corrections where errors have been identified.
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These amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2018 and can be applied on a voluntary basis from 1 January
2017.
Additionally, the associated MSC circulars were approved:
MSC.1/Circ. 1520 Guidelines on consolidated IMO provisions for the safe carriage of dangerous goods in packaged
form by sea.
MSC.1 Circ.1521 Amendments to Inspection programmes for cargo transport units carrying dangerous goods.
Amendments to chapter 9 of the 2009 MODU Code (MSC 96/3/3)
Chapter 9 – Fire Safety – Provisions for Helicopter Facilities. These are consequential amendments related to the
new regulations for helicopter landing areas and the requirements of the new Chapter 17 of the FSS Code.
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These amendments will enter into force 1 January 2020
Polar Code
In addition MSC 96 considered the report of the correspondence group on the Development of guidance on a
methodology for determining limitations for operation in ice, under this agenda item. MSC 96 approved the guidelines
which the correspondence group had written. It was noted that there are outstanding concerns on the issues of brash
ice and ships under ice-breaking escort. They should be considered as part of the phase 2 work on the Polar Code.
MSC 96 deferred adoption of the following:
Amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for
Seafarers (STCW), 1978, as amended, and the Seafarers' Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW)
Code.
These are a package of amendments relating to revised training requirements for masters and deck officers on board
ships operating in polar waters.
The STCW Convention
Chapter I – General Provisions
Chapter V – Special Training Requirements for Personnel on Certain Types of Ships
The STCW Code
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Chapter I – General Provisions
Chapter V – Special Training Requirements for Personnel on Certain Types of Ships
Table A-V/4-1 - Specification of minimum standard of competence in basic training for ships operating in polar
waters
Table A-V/4-2 - Specification of minimum standard of competence in advanced training for ships operating in
polar waters
Draft STCW.6 Circular - Amendments to part B of the STCW Code
Table B-I/2 - List of certificates or documentary evidence required under the STCW Convention
MSC 96 deferred the adoption of these amendments until MSC 97. Note these amendments will now enter into force
on 1 July 2018 (not 1 January 2018 as originally envisaged). Flag Administrations will have the option to introduce
these requirements early should they wish.
Amendments to the introduction and part B of the International Code on Intact Stability, 2008 (2008 IS
Code)
- Draft amendments to the introduction of the 2008 IS Code to include a definition of a ship engaged in anchor
handling operations (these have to be adopted via both SOLAS and the Load Line Convention); and
- Draft amendments to part B of the 2008 IS Code to include stability criteria for ships engaged in anchor
handling operations.
While discussing these amendments it was noted that further amendments were proposed by SDC 3 to include lifting
and towing operations, including escort towing. It was agreed, therefore, to defer adoption of these amendments to
MSC 97, which would not affect the entry into force date (1 January 2020), so that all the amendments could be
adopted as a consolidated package and enter into force at the same time. The need to have the anchor handling
amendments adopted without further delay was noted.
Measures to enhance maritime security (Agenda item 4)
Guidance on the development of national maritime security legislation
MSC.1/Circ.1525 Guidance for the development of national maritime security legislation
After some discussion on the need to edit any mandatory text MSC 96 finalised the Guidance on the development of
national maritime security legislation and approved the circular.
Guidance on cyber risk management
MSC.1/Circ.1526 Interim guidelines on maritime cyber risk management
The increasing importance of electronic operational systems, digital information and data to ship operations calls for
appropriate technical and procedural controls to be in place to protect the company and ship operations, and
information and data relating to a ship and its crew, passengers and cargo.
MSC 96 considered several documents on maritime cyber security including various versions of proposed guidelines and
developed draft ‘Guidelines on cyber risk management’ which is a high-level approach with references to other (nonIMO) guidance such as the industry guidelines developed by BIMCO. MSC 96 approved the draft guidelines in an MSC
Circular as ‘Interim Guidelines’ to optimise their use.
The draft guidelines will go to the FAL Committee at its next session (April 2017) for their consideration and finalisation
as a joint MSC-FAL circular. The interim guidelines will then be revoked.
Goal based new-ship construction standards (Agenda item 5)
There are two elements to this agenda item. First is the audit of Recognised Organisations’ rules packages to enable
implementation of the goal-based standards (GBS) for the hull structures of new oil tankers and bulk carriers, SOLAS II1/3-10. Second is the general move within IMO towards developing regulations in support of a specific goal which
includes the safety level approach.
GBS audits
The IACS common structural rules, which have been audited by the IMO, have been found to comply with SOLAS II1/3-10. This means that oil tankers and bulk carriers over 150 metres in length contracted for construction on or after
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1 July 2016 which are designed and built to these rules will fully comply with this SOLAS requirement. Circular
MSC.1/Circ.1518 lists all the ROs whose rules have been agreed.
There will be ongoing discussion about possible improvements to the Guidelines under which the audits have been
done (resolution MSC.296 (87)) which is expected to start in detail at MSC 97. There was some preliminary discussion
about possible improvements which could be made to the Guidelines which concluded that the following matters
require further consideration at MSC 97:
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Definitions or descriptions of key words;
Better explanations on the relationship between information and documentation requirements and the
evaluation criteria;
Maintenance of verification audits;
Other issues from individual auditors;
Amendments to ensure a continuous improvement process was established;
Change to a more proactive approach; and
Other issues from delegations (to be submitted).
This list was not intended to be exhaustive and delegations were invited to submit comments in the usual manner to
MSC 97 and MSC 98.
MSC 96 concluded that amendments to Part A of the Guidelines should be given highest priority, but it was noted that
they may affect Part B consequentially. Changes which are purely related to Part B would be given a lower priority.
There are some audit findings which require resolution, but these were not considered to affect the safety of ships. An
additional audit to specifically address these will be carried out in the first half of 2017. The results will be
communicated to MSC 98, which is expected to be held in June 2017.
Safety Level Approach (SLA)
MSC 96 carried out further work on the draft “Interim guidelines for development and application of IMO goal-based
standards safety level approach”. The changes were relatively minor, such as specifying the need to periodically
monitor and maintain goals and functional requirements once they have been agreed within the IMO rule-making
process. There was no support at MSC 96 for expanding the scope of the draft guidelines, nor for applying the SLA
guidelines to restructure SOLAS.
The SSE sub-committee had been requested to develop draft functional requirements for SOLAS chapter III, lifesaving
appliances. MSC 96 reviewed these and generally agreed with them, but decided that the final outcomes should be
considered at MSC 98 after the correspondence group has finished its work. Some further instructions were given to
the correspondence group on considering the structure of functional requirements and their expected performance.
MSC 96 considered the experience which has been gained in using MSC.1/Circ.1394/Rev.1, “Generic guidelines for
developing IMO goal-based standards”, but concluded that it is too early to make changes to the guidelines as more
experience will be gained as the work on SOLAS chapter III continues.
Passenger Ship Safety (Agenda item 6)
Following the loss of the “Costa Concordia” the IMO undertook a comprehensive review of the accident investigation
report and considered what changes to IMO regulation might be needed as a result.
MSC 96 considered industry best practice developed by the Cruise Line Industry Association (CLIA) with respect to
watermist fire suppression systems in category A spaces and for fire protection for covered mooring decks. Both of
these best practices go beyond the requirements of SOLAS but are mandatory requirements for CLIA members.
Interferry also provided information on their industry best practice for fire detection and extinction on ferries.
MSC 96 decided that this agenda item was now complete and could be deleted from the work programme. Any new
issues could be proposed as new outputs as necessary.
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Mandatory instrument and/or provisions addressing safety standards for the carriage of
more than 12 industrial personnel on board vessels engaged on international voyages
(Agenda item 7)
The increase in the number of people transported to offshore wind farms either for the construction or the
maintenance of wind turbines has been increasing. The IMO has been discussing for a considerable time how these
“industrial personnel” should be treated and the associated safety requirements which need to be met. They are
typically fit and able and should know the ship layout better than a typical passenger would.
After further extensive discussion both in plenary and a working group MSC 96 agreed that in the long term a new
chapter of SOLAS (chapter XV) should be developed with an associated supporting Code. It is anticipated that this
work would be completed in time for the new chapter of SOLAS to enter into force on 1 January 2024.
As an interim measure and to enable ships to be consistently assessed until such time as the long term solution can be
agreed and enter into force, a draft MSC resolution was developed based on the use of SOLAS Chapter 1 regulations 4
& 5. However, MSC 96 had concerns over the use of the equivalency and exemptions regulations in this way and was
unable to approve the resolution at this session. The draft resolution will be forwarded to MSC 97 for more detailed
review.
Ship systems and equipment (Agenda item 8)
MSC 96 considered the report from SSE 2 (March 2015) and urgent matters from SSE 3 (March 2016). For more details
on the outcomes from both SSE 2 and SSE 3 please refer to the Lloyd’s Register SSE 3 Report. The following are items
relevant to the work of Lloyd’s Register.
MSC 96 adopted:
- Amendments to SOLAS regulations III/3 and III/20. Resolution MSC.402(96) on Requirements for maintenance,
thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair of lifeboats and rescue boats, launching
appliances and release gear, in conjunction with the adoption of the draft associated SOLAS amendments.
This MSC resolution includes explicit mandatory text clarifying the requirements for the qualification,
authorisation and certification of service suppliers, procedures for maintenance and testing, and what should
be carried out at each stage of testing (weekly, monthly, annual, 5-yearly). The resolution will be applicable to
all SOLAS vessels in service. Once in force these new regulations will supersede MSC.1/Circ.1206/Rev.1.
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Entry into force date for the SOLAS amendments and the MSC resolution will be 1 January 2020.
MSC 96 approved the following items which will go to MSC 97 for adoption:
- Draft Amendments to SOLAS regulations II-2/1 and II-2/10 together with an MSC circular encouraging early
implementation.
- MSC.1/Circ.1527 Unified interpretations of SOLAS chapter II-2.
- MSC.1/Circ.1528 Unified interpretations of chapters 5, 6 and 9 of the FSS Code.
- MSC.1/Circ.1529 Unified interpretations of paragraph 4.4.7.6 of the LSA Code, as amended by resolution
MSC.320 (89) to include the addition of a new sentence. After some discussion MSC 96 agreed that the PREN
value should be reduced to 22.
- MSC.1/Circ.1530 Unified interpretations of SOLAS regulations III/6.4 and III/6.5 and section 7.2 of the LSA
Code.
- MSC.1/Circ./1523 Early implementation of the new chapter 17 of the FSS Code, in conjunction with the
adoption of the draft new chapter 17 of the FSS Code. The new chapter 17 of the FSS Code contains a
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definition in SOLAS which won’t enter into force until 1 January 2020 so a paragraph has been included in
this circular to draw attention to the definition of a ‘Helicopter Landing Area’.
- MSC.1/Circ.1524 Amendments to the recommendation on helicopter landing areas on ro-ro passenger ships
(MSC/Circ.895), in conjunction with the adoption of the new chapter 17 of the FSS Code and amendments to
chapter 9 of the 2009 MODU Code.
In addition MSC 96:
- Agreed to the draft functional requirements of SOLAS chapter III, so that they can be used by the
Correspondence Group on the Development of Functional Requirements for SOLAS chapter III which will
report to SSE 4.
- Agreed with SSE 3’s decision that a detailed review of the draft MSC circular on Guidelines on safety during
abandon ship drills using lifeboats and the draft amendments to MSC.1/Circ.1205 is needed due to possible
inconsistencies as a result of the new MSC resolution on Requirements for maintenance, thorough
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examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair of lifeboats and rescue boats, launching appliances and
release gear. This will be added to the agenda for SSE 4.
Noted that the SSE 2 took no action on IACS UI SC270 relating to fire pumps in ships designed to carry five or
more tiers of containers on or above the weather deck. IACS agreed to submit a paper to MSC 97 with the
previously agreed version of UI SC 270.
Implementation of IMO instruments (Agenda item 9)
MSC 96 considered the report from III 2 (July 2015). For more details on the outcomes from III 2 please refer to the
Lloyd’s Register III 2 Report. The following are items relevant to the work of Lloyd’s Register.
MSC 96 approved:
- New SOLAS regulation XI-1/2-1 on harmonization of survey periods of cargo ships not subject to the ESP
Code, with a view to subsequent adoption.
MSC 96 considered a proposed amendment to draft new SOLAS regulation XI-1/2-1 to accurately reflect the correct
terminology for intermediate and renewal surveys related to SOLAS regulation 1/10. There was clear support for the
proposed amendments which will be included in the draft regulation (SOLAS regulation XI-1/2-1) and circulated for
adoption at MSC 97. The III Sub-Committee will be instructed to amend the HSSC Survey Guidelines after the new
regulation is adopted.
In addition MSC 96:
- Endorsed the circulation of the Guide for regulating the safety of passenger ships not covered by SOLAS
without detailed technical review and similarly agreed that there was no need to develop a guide for
regulating the safety of other types of ships not covered by SOLAS.
- Endorsed the III 2’s conclusion that there is no need to align FAL.2/Circ.127-MEPC.1/Circ.817-MSC.1/Circ.1462
on "List of certificates and documents required to be carried on board ships" with FAL.5/Circ.39/Rev.1 at this
time.
- Noted that III 2 approved the Survey Guidelines under the HSSC, 2015, and the 2015 Non-exhaustive list of
obligations under instruments relevant to the IMO instruments implementation Code and submitted them to
Assembly 29 where they were adopted
MSC 96 did not approve the Draft MSC-MEPC.4 circular on Guidelines for Port State Control Officers on the ISM Code
and deferred the decision to MSC 97. MSC 97 will review the outcome of HTW 2 in respect of this issue before making
a decision on the approval of the guidelines. MEPC 69 similarly deferred approval.
Carriage of cargoes and containers (Agenda item 10)
MSC 96 considered the outcome of the second meeting of the CCC Sub-Committee as given below. For details on the
discussions at the CCC 2, please refer to the Lloyd’s Register CCC 2 Report.
The Committee approved the following:
- Recommendations and circulars related to the IMDG Code
- CSC.1/Circ.151 Amendments to the Revised Recommendations on harmonized interpretation and
implementation of the International Convention for Safe Containers, 1972, as amended
(CSC.1/Circ.138/Rev.1).
- CSC.1/Circ.152 Amendments to the Guidelines for development of an approved continuous examination
programme (ACEP) (CSC.1/Circ.143).
- CSC.1/Circ.153 List of locations of publicly available ACEP information, with a view to the circular being
updated and issued on an annual basis, or when any Administration informs the Organization on changes to
their ACEP information.
- CSC.1/Circ.154 Instructions for use and information concerning the Global ACEP Database.
- MSC.1/Circ.1531 Due diligence checklist in identifying providers of CTU-related services.
- Amendments to paragraph 3.2.5 of the IGC Code, as amended by resolution MSC.370(93), for adoption at
MSC 97.
- MSC circular on early implementation of the amendments to paragraph 3.2.5 of the IGC Code, noting the
potential for industry to be unable to meet the current requirement of the IGC Code, as amended by
resolution MSC.370(93), for A-0 fire-rated wheelhouse windows, which will apply from 1 July 2016.
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In addition MSC 96:
- Endorsed CCC's view that all safety concerns with regard to ships using low-flashpoint oil fuels should be
addressed in the context of the IGF Code, without reopening discussion on the possibility of amending the
flashpoint requirements in SOLAS.
- Invited ISO to develop a standard LNG bunkering safety checklist.
- Endorsed the actions taken on safety concerns regarding the transport of Bauxite in bulk and noted the
approval of CCC.1/Circ.2 on Carriage of BAUXITE that may liquefy.
- Endorsed the actions taken on the revision of DSC/Circ.12 and noted the approval of CCC.1/Circ.3 on Revised
guidance on the continued use of existing IMO type portable tanks and road tank vehicles for the transport of
dangerous goods.
- Adopted the draft amendments (38-16) to the IMDG Code.
- Urged CSC 1972 Contracting Parties to submit information on the location where their ACEP information is
publicly available to the Organization.
- Noted that CCC had requested the Secretariat to prepare a corrigendum to annex 6 of the report of MSC 93
(MSC 93/22/Add.1), deleting the words "by the Administration" in paragraph 8.2.18 of the IGC Code
- Noted the progress made on the development of mandatory requirements for classification and declaration of
solid bulk cargoes as HME through the development of draft amendments to MARPOL Annex V.
- Noted the draft amendments to the IMSBC Code related to HME substances.
- Noted that CCC had requested the Secretariat to prepare a corrigendum to annex 6 of the report of MSC 93
(MSC 93/22/Add.1) with corrections to paragraphs 7.8.4, 13.6.11 and 16.9.5 of the IGC Code.
Ship design and construction (Agenda item 11)
MSC 96 considered the outcome of the third meeting of the SDC Sub-Committee as given below. For details on the
discussions at the SDC 3, please refer to the Lloyd’s Register SDC 3 Report.
The Committee approved:
- Amendments to SOLAS chapter II-1 on subdivision and damage stability regulations, with a view to adoption at
MSC 97. It should be noted that the proposed amendment to the formula for “R” for passenger ships was
hotly debated. Further discussion can be expected at MSC 97 before the new formula is finally adopted. It
should also be noted that the usual entry into force criteria were agreed, i.e. the amendments will be applicable
for ships where the contract for construction is signed on or after 1 January 2020, or the keel is laid on or after
1 January 2022 or delivered on or after 1 January 2024.
- Amendments to chapter 2 of the 2008 SPS Code, related to the reference to the current index R formula.
- The Revised guidelines on operational information for masters of passenger ships for safe return to port, and
the associated draft MSC circular.
- Amendments to the introduction of the 2008 IS Code regarding vessels engaged in lifting and towing
operations, including escort towing, with a view to subsequent adoption at MSC 97.
- Amendments to part B of the 2008 IS Code regarding vessels engaged in lifting and towing operations,
including escort towing, with a view to adoption in conjunction with the adoption of associated amendments
to the introduction of the 2008 IS Code, (in principle only as these amendments would enter into force at the
same time as the amendments to Part A). It should be noted that some concern has been expressed over the
calculation procedures for lifting and over the lack of definition for “exposed waters”. Further proposals for
amendment will be provided at MSC 97.
- Revised guidelines on evacuation analysis for new and existing passenger ships, and the associated MSC
circular.
- An amendment to paragraph 2.1.2.2.2.1 of chapter 13 of the FSS Code, regarding clarification of the crew
distribution in public spaces, with a view to subsequent adoption at MSC 97.
- Amendments to SOLAS regulation II-1/1.2 and the draft new regulation II-1/19-1, regarding damage control
drills for passenger ships, with a view to subsequent adoption at MSC 97.
- Amendments to SOLAS regulations III/1.4, III/30 and III/37, regarding damage control drills for passenger ships,
with a view to subsequent adoption at MSC 97. It should be noted in this regard that the amendment to SOLAS
III/37 is applicable to passenger ships only and the text for SOLAS III/37.9 was amended to read “for passenger
ships only, damage control for flooding emergencies”.
- Amendments to the 2011 ESP Code, with a view to subsequent adoption at MSC 97
- Unified Interpretations relating to:
- The International Convention on Load Lines, 1966, and to the Protocol of 1988 relating to the
International Convention on Load Lines, 1966, concerning position 1 and 2 and sill heights;
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SOLAS regulations II-1/29.3 and II-1/29.4, relating to steering gear trials; It was agreed that the
previous circular on this subject, MSC.1/Circ.1425, should be repealed.
The 2008 IS Code, relating to the definition of lightweight, downflooding points and consideration of
stability at the tropical load line;
To the International Grain Code, relating to downflooding points;
SOLAS chapter II-1, relating to the definition of lightweight, the application of PSPC and to
downflooding points; While discussing these interpretations MSC noted that the HSC Codes (1994
and 2000 versions), and the MODU Code also contained definitions for lightweight. The Secretariat
was requested to develop circulars to cover these instruments as well provided that the definitions
were identical to that in SOLAS.
The IBC Code, (also to be approved by MEPC 70) relating to downflooding points;
The IGC Code, relating to downflooding points;
The application of the 2009 MODU Code, chapter 2, paragraphs 2.1 to 2.4, and the Revised technical
provisions for means of access for inspections (resolution MSC.158(78)), relating to means of access
and adjacent sections of ladder;
The application of SOLAS regulation II-1/3-6, as amended, and the revised Technical Provisions for
means of access for inspections (resolution MSC.158(78)), relating to adjacent sections of ladder; and
The 1969 TM Convention, relating to heat exchangers and their inclusion in the tonnage calculation.
In addition MSC 96:
- Endorsed the Sub-Committee's view that a change of the existing scope of the output on "double hull in way
of main engine-room" to include alternative solutions is acceptable and does not require any specific
justification.
- Endorsed the Sub-Committee's decision to refer draft Revised guidelines on evacuation analysis for new and
existing passenger ships to SSE 3 for information, as the definitions, contained in section 2 of annex 1 to the
draft Revised guidelines may be of interest in the development of the functional requirements of SOLAS
chapter III.
- Endorsed the decision that the draft Guidelines for conducting damage control drills on passenger ships were
not necessary at this stage, as the finalised draft amendments to SOLAS regulations II-1/19-1, III/30 and III/37
were sufficiently detailed.
- Considered if MSC.1/Circ.1464/Rev.1 and its Corr.1 will need to be amended to exclude MODU's and
concluded that SOLAS II-1/3-6 was clear in its application to oil tankers and bulk carriers so no action was
needed.
- Considered the need to amend MSC.1/Circ.1464/Rev.1 and its Corr.1, as amended by MSC.1/Circ.1507, due
to the approval of the draft Unified Interpretations. MSC 96 agreed that it would be beneficial to have a
consolidated version of the circular and asked the Secretariat to produce one.
- Noted the progress made on matters related to the revised SOLAS regulation II-1/3-8 and associated guidelines
(MSC.1/Circ.1175) and new guidelines for safe mooring operations for all ships
- Noted that the eight options on the regulatory regimes and procedures for transporting industrial personnel
and the table of comparison of criteria within proposed options, including the advantages and disadvantages
and the potential way forward, were considered under agenda item 7 (Mandatory instrument and/or
provisions addressing safety standards for the carriage of more than 12 industrial personnel on board vessels
engaged on international voyages).
- Noted the progress made on matters related to the draft Interim guidelines for use of Fibre Reinforced Plastic
(FRP) elements within ship structures: Fire safety issues.
Human element, training and watchkeeping (Agenda item 12)
MSC 96 considered the outcome of the third meeting of the HTW Sub-Committee. For details on the discussions at the
HTW 3, please refer to the Lloyd’s Register HTW 3 Report.
MSC 96 approved:
- Draft Assembly resolution on Revised guidelines on the implementation of the ISM Code by Administrations,
with the view to adoption by the Assembly in 2017.
- Draft amendments to the STCW Convention and Code relating to passenger ship specific training.
- The proposed text of paragraph 2 of the draft new SOLAS regulation II-1/19-1 on Damage control drills for
passenger ships.
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In addition MSC 96 considered inconsistencies in the interpretation of the STCW Convention relating to the provision
of documentary evidence to Port State Control Officers. It was reported that there are increasing problems relating to
requests for documentary evidence where none is required by the STCW Convention. It was decided that the issue
should be further discussed at HTW 4 (January 2017).
Pollution prevention and response (Agenda item 13)
MSC 96 considered the outcome of the third meeting of the PPR Sub-Committee. For details on the discussions at the
PPR 3, please refer to the Lloyd’s Register PPR 3 Report.
MSC 96 approved:
- MSC-MEPC Circular on Example of a certificate of protection for products requiring oxygen-dependent
inhibitors (as required by paragraph 15.13.3 of the IBC Code.)
This circular is one of a series of circulars that relate to Oxygen Inhibitors, i.e. MSC.1/Circ.1501 and MSCMEPC.5/Circ.10. ESPH 21 prepared this draft MSC-MEPC circular on ‘Example of a certificate of protection’ as required
by paragraph 15.13.3 of the IBC Code. This circular was approved by MSC 96 and will now go to MEPC 70 for their co
–approval.
Navigation, communications, search and rescue (Agenda item 14)
MSC 96 considered the following urgent items from NCSR 3 (March 2016) that are relevant to the work of Lloyd’s
Register. For more details on the outcomes from NCSR 3 please refer to the Lloyd’s Register NCSR 3 Report.
MSC 97 approved:
- SN.1/Circ.334 Recognition of the Galileo Global Navigation Satellite System as a component of the WorldWide Radionavigation System.
- The outcome of the Detailed Review of the GMDSS and the continuation of the project in developing the
Modernization Plan.
In addition MSC 96:
- Endorsed the view of NCSR 3 that Iridium could be incorporated into the GMDSS subject to compliance with
outstanding issues with the understanding that NCSR, based on the evaluation reports from IMSO, would
advise the Committee on final recognition, when the issues identified have been complied with. MSC 96 was
informed that it is expected that Iridium will have concluded any outstanding issues necessary for recognition
by 2019.
- Agreed that the scope of application of the performance standards for ship-borne GMDSS equipment to
accommodate additional providers of GMDSS satellite service should apply to all providers on the installation of
new equipment.
- Encouraged Member Governments and observer organisations to promote the availability of the industry
Guidance (‘Large scale rescue operations at sea: Guidance on ensuring the safety and security of seafarers and
rescued persons’) as widely as possible, and agreed that no further action has to be taken by the SubCommittee with regard to this industry guidance.
Formal safety assessment, including general cargo ship safety (Agenda item 16)
Formal Safety Assessment (FSA) is a structured and systematic methodology which has been taken on by the IMO. It is
intended to allow decisions to be made at IMO which take account of the effect of proposed regulatory changes in
terms of benefits (e.g. expected reduction of lives lost or of pollution) and related costs incurred for the industry as a
whole and for individual parties affected by the decision.
Over the last 15 years several FSAs have been undertaken on general cargo ships to identify various risk control options
(RCOs). These RCOs have now been communicated or implemented where appropriate. MSC 96 decided that this work
has been completed and the item can be removed from the agenda of MSC.
MSC 96 also considered the decisions of SDC 3 on the FSA expert group’s validation of a previous EMSA study on the
survivability of passenger ships and agreed to encourage the upload of more specific casualty information onto GISIS.
MSC 97 will consider the best ways in which to use this data.
Lloyd’s Register Briefing Note – MSC 96 Summary Report
May 2016
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Previous reports of the FSA expert group will be uploaded to IMODOCS under a new tab for ease of reference.
MSC 96 also discussed how to follow up on the findings of an FSA carried out by Germany on fire safety of ro-ro and
ro-pax ships carrying electrically powered vehicles and vehicles with refrigeration units. MSC 96 recommended that
Germany should submit their report of the findings to the FSA Experts Group for detailed analysis and that a request
for a new output be considered at MSC 97 (Nov 2016)
Implementation of instruments and related matters (Agenda item 20)
The following issues were considered under this agenda item:
- Clarifications on issues relevant to implementation of the RO Code. The majority of those that spoke did not
agree with the points raised in the paper although there was some sympathy with the apparent relaxation of
regulations regarding ships on passage for demolition.
- New GISIS module on Development of amendments to the 1974 SOLAS Convention and related mandatory
instruments. The Secretariat reported that the new module was now functioning.
- Status of footnotes in the IGF Code: MSC 96 decided that while, as is usual, the authentic text won’t have any
footnotes, the published text of the IGF Code will have the footnotes as agreed.
- Application of the Code on Noise Levels on Board Ships. In order to close the gap in the application of the
noise level provisions to ships MSC 96 developed and approved draft amendments to SOLAS to be considered
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for adoption at MSC 97 with an entry into force date of 1 January 2020. MSC 96 also approved an MSC
Circular and guidance which will be revoked once the amendments enter into force.
Draft Amendments to SOLAS regulation II-1/3-12
MSC.1/Circ.1547 Guidance on the application of SOLAS regulation II-1/3-12 to ships delivered before 1 July
2018
Work programme (Agenda item 23)
Various new work programme items were proposed and the following are of particular interest to Lloyd’s Register:
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Proposal for a new output on amendments to the IGC Code. Several Member States were concerned that this
proposal could risk starting a new revision process prematurely and MSC could not agree to it. Instead
Member States are encouraged to submit proposed unified interpretations to CCC to clarify any
inconsistences.
Proposal for a new output to address the requirements for watertight integrity contained in parts B-2 to B-4 of
SOLAS chapter II-1. MSC 96 agreed to include this on the post biennial agenda for SDC with 3 sessions to
complete the work. Any agreed amendments will apply to all new ships and are expected to enter into force
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1 January 2024.
Proposal for a new output on requirements for CO2 pipelines in under-deck passageways. MSC 96 supported
the inclusion of this work on the agenda for SSE 4 with one session to complete it. Any agreed amendments to
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the FSS Code in respect of this issue will enter into force 1 January 2020.
Proposal for a new output to amend the IGC and IGF Codes to include high manganese austenitic steel for
cryogenic service. MSC 96 agreed to include this issue on the agenda of CCC 3 with one session to complete
the work. Any amendments will apply to ships to which the IGC or IGF Codes are applicable and are expected
to enter into force 1 January 2020.
Proposal for a new output to amend the LSA Code paragraph 6.1.1.3. There was general agreement for this
work to be put on the agenda for SSE 4 with one session to complete it. Any amendments would apply to all
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ships and enter into force 1 January 2020
Confusion between SOLAS regulations II-2/19 and II-2/20 and IMDG Code Special Provisions 961 and 962.
Proposal for a new output to amend SOLAS chapter II-2. MSC 96 agreed to the new output with the CCC subcommittee taking the lead but in association with the SSE sub-committee. It will be placed on the agenda for
CCC 3 with one session to complete the work and will then be sent to SSE 4 for their consideration. Any
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amendments will apply to both new and existing ships with an entry into force date of 1 January 2020.
Proposal to amend SOLAS chapter IV to accommodate additional mobile satellite systems in the GMDSS. MSC
96 agreed to the new output to be addressed by NCSR as a priority and placed it on the agenda for NSCR 4
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with one session to complete the work. The amendments should enter into force 1 January 2020
Any other business (Agenda item 24)
MSC 96 considered the following;
Lloyd’s Register Briefing Note – MSC 96 Summary Report
May 2016
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Developments to the Polar Code. The Polar Code has been written and approved for SOLAS ships. When the
work was first started it was recognised that many of the accidents in the Polar Regions were involving nonSOLAS ships, mainly fishing vessels and yachts. It was agreed that work would initially focus on SOLAS ships
and once that was completed then consideration would be given to non-SOLAS ship regulation. MSC 96
agreed to note the information provided in the papers submitted but noted that there wasn’t enough data to
support any proposed way forward. Member States were invited to submit more information and proposals on
the next steps to MSC 97. (See also discussions under agenda item 3 concerning brash ice and ships with icebreaker escort).
SOLAS requirements for Verified Gross Mass of packed containers. MSC 96 noted with concern that although
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the entry into force date for the SOLAS requirements is 1 July 2016 there was a wide variation of readiness
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amongst administrations and ports. The issue of the requirements for containers in transit on 1 July 2016 was
also raised. MSC 96 issued MSC.1/Circ.1548 Advice to Administrations and Port State Control Authorities,
companies and port terminals and ships masters regarding the SOLAS requirements for verified gross mass of
packed containers which permits packed containers that are loaded on a ship before 1 July 2016 and are
transhipped on or after 1 July 2016 to be shipped to their final port of discharge without the VGM and allows
some flexibility for ports and administrations to refine their procedures. This circular will expire 3 months after
1 July 2016.
Embarkation station and stowage location of the liferaft required by SOLAS regulation III/31.1.4 (IACS UI
SC213). There was general support for the proposal to amend SOLAS regulation III/31.1.4 in order to revise the
calculation for the length of the embarkation ladder. It was acknowledged that this couldn’t be considered a
minor amendment so a request for a new output will be submitted to MSC 97.
IMO/IACS co-operation on the IACS Quality System Certification Scheme. MSC 96 noted the information
provided in the report from the Secretariat and in particular that in accordance with the participation
agreement between IMO and IACS, the IMO observer had continued to participate in the implementation of
the Scheme and expressed satisfaction that the IACS QSCS audits were conducted to a good standard. MSC
96 requested that the arrangement was continued with financial contributions provided by IACS and to
provide a report to MSC 98 (May 2017).
MSC 96 noted the information provided on the following issues
- The CTU Code and minimising pest movement by sea containers. MSC noted the information.
- Information on the European Union Operational Guidelines on places of refuge.
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