EnglishIMO MARITIME SAFETY COMMITTEE UPDATE 110
Published: 1 July 2025
The IMO recently hosted the 110th session of the MSC from 18 to 27 June 2025.
During this session, several amendments were adopted, and the text of further amendments and circulars were approved. Key highlights include:
- Adopted amendment 08-25 of the IMSBC Code with entry into force from 1 January 2027, along with possible early adoption from 1 January 2026
- Adopted amendments to SOLAS Chapter V Regulation 23 covering pilot transfer arrangements, along with updated performance standards, entering into force on 1 January 2028. Pilot transfer arrangements installed after 1 January 2028 must meet the new standards for design, manufacture, securing, and installation. Pilot transfer arrangements installed prior to 1 January 2028, will have to meet the new standards no later than the first Safety Equipment Survey after 1 January 2029. The new performance standards also provide updated requirements relating to inspection, stowage, maintenance, replacement, and familiarisation of the pilot transfer arrangement, and these will enter into force on 1 January 2028 – regardless of the arrangement’s installation date
- Adopted an extensive revision to Resolution A.1050(27) “Revised Recommendations for Entering Enclosed Spaces Aboard Ships”
- Various draft amendments to the IGC Code were agreed. However additional comments were received regarding some other planned amendments to the Code. As such the next sub-committee on Carriage of Containers and Cargoes have been asked to review the draft amendments and update the text as necessary. The amendments are therefore now expected to be adopted at MSC 111, and enter into force from 1 July 2028
- Continued progress on the Maritime Autonomous Surface Ship (MASS) Code, with the non-mandatory code expected to be finalised and adopted at MSC 111, with the mandatory code entering force in 2032
- Provided a recommendation for the Code of Safety for Nuclear Merchant Ships to be updated to reflect advances in technology since its initial adoption date (November 1981).
A useful summary of the main outcomes from the session can be found here.
For more information and interpretation of the upcoming regulations, shipowners should consult their classification society and/or flag state administration as appropriate.
The next session, MSC 111, is scheduled to take place between 13 and 22 May 2026.
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