At its 108th session (15 to 24 May 2024), the Maritime Safety Committee approved the revised Joint IMO/IHO/WMO Manual on Maritime Safety Information. This manual, prepared by the World Meteorological Organization and the International Hydrographic Organization, was also agreed upon by the Sub-Committee on Navigation, Communications, and Search and Rescue (NCSR) during its tenth session (10 to 19 May 2023).
Bulk carriers were developed in the 1950s to carry large quantities of non-packed commodities such as grains, coal and iron ore. Some 5,000 bulk carriers trade around the world, providing a crucial service to world commodities' transportation. Bulk carrier operators must be aware of the specific safety concerns related to this type of ship.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) responded to environmental and safety concerns in the wrestling industry by introducing the "Green Passport", now known as the Inventory of Hazardous Substances (IHM). This requirement addresses hazardous materials on board ships that pose risks to health, safety, and the environment. Finally, the Hong Kong Convention was adopted in 2009 and will enter into force in June 2025.
The Sub-Committee on Navigation, Radio-Communications and Search and Rescue (NCSR), at its ninth meeting (21-30 June 2022), considering amendments to Chapter IV of SOLAS, resolution MSC.496(105) adopted, according to which, the circular No. COMSAR.1/Circ.32/Rev.1 related to the modernization of radio equipment (GMDSS) and harmonizing the requirements related to them. In this technical article, the second edition (COMSAR.1/Circ.32/Rev.2) of this directive is explained, which has become effective from January 1, 2024 for all ships subject to the SOLAS Convention.
The Engine International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate (EIAPP Certificate) plays a pivotal role in addressing Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) emissions from marine engines. This certification, governed by the NOx Technical Code, employs prescribed test cycles and measurement methods to calculate NOx emissions, emphasizing compliance with stringent environmental standards.
Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) play a crucial role in maritime safety by facilitating rapid distress signal response. Regulation 14.1 of the International Convention for the Safely of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974, as amended, concerning radio-communications for the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), which require, inter alia, that all radio equipment shall conform to appropriate performance standards not inferior to those adopted by the Organization.
In accordance with article 9 of the Convention, a Party may sample the ship’s ballast water for the purpose of determining whether the ship is in compliance with the Convention in accordance with these Guidelines. Although the Convention contains no requirements for provision of sampling points, the Guidelines for approval of ballast water management systems (G8) adopted by resolution MEPC. 174(58) do expressly call for the provision of sampling facilities, not only for the purpose of type approval, but also for the purpose of other required sampling process.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) responded to environmental and safety concerns in the wrestling industry by introducing the "Green Passport", now known as the Inventory of Hazardous Substances (IHM). This requirement addresses hazardous materials on board ships that pose risks to health, safety, and the environment. Finally, the Hong Kong Convention was adopted in 2009 and will enter into force in June 2025.
The Sub-Committee on Navigation, Radio-Communications and Search and Rescue (NCSR), at its ninth meeting (21-30 June 2022), considering amendments to Chapter IV of SOLAS, resolution MSC.496(105) adopted, according to which, the circular No. COMSAR.1/Circ.32/Rev.1 related to the modernization of radio equipment (GMDSS) and harmonizing the requirements related to them. In this technical article, the second edition (COMSAR.1/Circ.32/Rev.2) of this directive is explained, which has become effective from January 1, 2024 for all ships subject to the SOLAS Convention.
UMA (Unattended Machinery Area) ships, sometimes referred to as UMS, are designed for machinery and equipment operation without constant watch-keeping personnel. This article outlines the specific machinery included, stringent safety requirements, and the need for meticulous ship design. It emphasizes fire safety measures, prevention of flooding, alarm systems, and communication means, all crucial for ensuring safe and continuous operation.
This article contains a list of new requirements adopted by MSC 105, MEPC 78, MSC 106 and MEPC 79. [MSC 105 (20 to 29 April 2022), MEPC 78 (6 to 10 June 2022), MSC 106 (2 to 11 November 2022), MEPC 79 (12 to 16 December 2022)]
The 107th session of the Maritime Safety Committee was held from 31 May to 9 June 2023. In this regard, Committee adopted the proposed amendments to chapter II-1 of the 1974 SOLAS Convention, in relation to lifting appliances and anchor handling winches. This amendment should be deemed to have been accepted on 1 July 2025 and enter into force on 1 January 2026.
In April 2022, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) updated its International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code with Resolution MSC.500(105), providing amendments to the code which will enter into force on December 1, 2023. From January 1, 2023, ship operators may opt for voluntary compliance.
Remote Inspection Techniques (RIT) offer a survey method that allows the examination of various structure parts without requiring direct physical access by the surveyor. With the development of remote inspection techniques (RITs), such as remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and real-time sensors which are carried by drones, the maritime industry is increasingly applying remote inspection techniques (RITs).
The SCF(Ship Construction File), as outlined in IMO guidelines, details how functional requirements of ship construction standards are applied, must be provided at delivery, kept on board, and updated as needed during the ship's service.
In accordance with MARPOL/Annex I/Reg. 12, ships with a gross tonnage of 400 and above are mandated to be equipped with a tank or tanks of sufficient capacity. The capacity should be determined with consideration given to the type of machinery and the duration of the voyage, ensuring the proper reception of oil residues (sludge).
A windlass used for handling anchors, suitable for the size of chain cable and complying with the Classification Society’s criteria is to be fitted to the ship. The design, construction and testing of windlasses are to conform to an acceptable standard or code of practice. To be considered acceptable, the standard or code of practice is to specify criteria for stresses, performance and testing.
UMA (Unattended Machinery Area) ships, sometimes referred to as UMS, are designed for machinery and equipment operation without constant watch-keeping personnel. This article outlines the specific machinery included, stringent safety requirements, and the need for meticulous ship design. It emphasizes fire safety measures, prevention of flooding, alarm systems, and communication means, all crucial for ensuring safe and continuous operation.
Air pipes in ships maintain pressure equilibrium during tank filling. They are usually installed on the upper ceiling of the tanks. There are specific requirements for their height and structure, which are determined based on their positions. In this article, we will briefly introduce the air pipes and review the related regulations based on the International Load Line Convention.
This technical article delves into the world of maritime engineering, highlighting the central role of ship propellers in vessel propulsion. It explores the foundational principles of propellers, their various types, materials, and construction, and provides a glimpse into the future of ship propulsion technology.
-Emission-regulations-and-the-future-of-ships-Small.jpg)
