6 April 2022

Applicable to: Shipowners, ship managers, operators, agents, surveyors and masters of Singapore-registered ships

RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED BY THE 100TH 101ST 102ND AND 103RD SESSION OF THE MARITIME SAFETY COMMITTEE (MSC) OF THE INTERNATIONAL MARITIME ORGANIZATION  

1. This circular informs the shipping community of the resolutions adopted by the MSC for the shipping community to prepare for the implementation of these resolutions.

2. The details of the resolutions can be found in the reports of MSC and is available on the MPA website.

3. The resolutions adopted by MSC 100 include the following:
a. Resolution MSC.453(100) – AMENDMENTS TO THE CODE OF SAFETY FOR SPECIAL PURPOSE SHIPS (SPS CODE)

The resolution adopts amendments to the SPS Code as set out within the text of the present resolution, including incorporating amendments previously adopted by circular MSC/Circ.739 (which includes the amendments adopted by MSC/Circ.446 and MSC/Circ.478) and resolution MSC.183(79), and the consequential amendments to the Record of Equipment and is effective on 1 January 2020.

b. Resolution MSC.454(100) – REVISED GUIDELINES FOR VERIFICATION OF CONFORMITY WITH GOAL-BASED SHIP CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS FOR BULK CARRIERS AND OIL TANKERS

The resolution adopts the Revised guidelines for verification of conformity with goal-based ship construction standards for bulk carriers and oil tankers and will take effect upon documentation submitted for initial verification and on rule and/or documentation changes undergoing the maintenance of verification process on or after 1 January 2020.  

c. Resolution MSC.455(100) – AMENDMENTS TO PART B OF THE SEAFARERS' TRAINING, CERTIFICATION AND WATCHKEEPING CODE (STCW CODE)

The resolution adopts amendments to part B of the STCW Code, the text of which is set out in the annex to the present resolution and recommends that Parties use the amendments to part B of the STCW Code as recommended guidance for the implementation, application and enforcement of measures to give the Convention full and complete effect in a uniform manner and will become effective on 1 January 2019.  

4. The resolutions adopted by MSC 101 include the following:
a. Resolution MSC.456(101) – AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION FOR THE SAFETY OF LIFE AT SEA, 1974, AS AMENDED

The resolution adopts amendments to the annex to the 1974 SOLAS Convention, concerning the addition of a footnote to forms C, E and P in the Records of Equipment. The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2024.

b. Resolution MSC.457(101) – AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL CODE FOR FIRE SAFETY SYSTEMS (FSS CODE)

The resolution adopts amendments to FSS Code related to chapter 15 (Inert gas systems) of the FSS Code, concerning inert gas lines and related indicators and alarms for monitoring the pressure of the inert gas mains. The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2024.

c. Resolution MSC.458(101) – AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL CODE OF SAFETY FOR SHIPS USING GASES OR OTHER LOW-FLASHPOINT FUELS (IGF CODE)

The resolution adopts amendments to parts A and A-1 of the IGF Code, concerning natural gas-specific requirements. The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2024.

d. Resolution MSC.459(101) – AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL LIFE-SAVING APPLIANCE CODE (LSA CODE)

The resolution adopts amendments to chapters IV and VI of the LSA Code, concerning general requirements for lifeboats and associated launching and embarkation appliances. The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2024. 

e. Resolution MSC.460(101)) – AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL CODE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND EQUIPMENT OF SHIPS CARRYING DANGEROUS CHEMICALS IN BULK (IBC CODE)

The resolution adopts the amendments to chapters 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 21 of the IBC Code. The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2021.

f. Resolution MSC.461(101) – AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL CODE ON THE ENHANCED PROGRAMME OF INSPECTIONS DURING SURVEYS OF BULK CARRIERS AND OIL TANKERS, 2011 (2011 ESP CODE)

The resolution adopts amendments to the 2011 ESP Code. The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2021.

g. Resolution MSC.462(101) – AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL MARITIME SOLID BULK CARGOES CODE (IMSBC CODE)

The resolution adopts the amendments (05-19) to the IMSBC Code as part of its regular 2-yearly review. The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2021.

h. Resolution MSC.463(101) – AMENDMENTS TO THE CODE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND EQUIPMENT OF SHIPS CARRYING DANGEROUS CHEMICALS IN BULK (BCH CODE)

The resolution adopts amendments to chapters IV, V and VI of the BCH Code. The amendments will take effect on 1 January 2021.

i. Resolution MSC.464(101) – AMENDMENTS TO THE CODE OF SAFETY FOR SPECIAL PURPOSE SHIPS (SPS CODE)

Following the adoption of amendments to chapter IV and the appendix (Certificates) to the 1974 SOLAS Convention (resolution MSC.436(99), this resolution adopts a new set of amendments to the SPS Safety Certificate and its associated Record of Equipment (Form SPS) to update the Record of Equipment for the SPS Safety Certificate. The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2020.

j. Resolution MSC.465(101) – RECOMMENDED INTERIM MEASURES TO ENHANCE THE SAFETY OF SHIPS RELATING TO THE USE OF OIL FUEL

The resolution adopts the interim measures to enhance the safety of ships relating to the use of oil fuel and ensuring that only safe and compliant oil fuel is delivered to ship.

k. Resolution MSC.466(101) – AMENDMENTS TO THE PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR THE PRESENTATION OF NAVIGATION-RELATED INFORMATION ON SHIPBORNE NAVIGATIONAL DISPLAYS (RESOLUTION MSC.191(79))

The resolution adopts amendments to the Performance standards for the presentation of navigation-related information on shipborne navigational displays.

l. Resolution MSC.467(101) – GUIDANCE ON THE DEFINITION AND HARMONISATION OF THE FORMAT AND STRUCTURE OF MARITIME SERVICES IN THE CONTEXT OF E-NAVIGATION

The resolution adopts the Guidance on the definition and harmonisation of the format and structure of Maritime Services in the context of e-nav, in recognition of the need to harmonise the format and structure of Maritime Services and the maritime-related information and data to enhance the safety and efficiency of shipping, and the need to work in collaboration with all involved international organisations in order to harmonise the exchange of maritime information and data provided through different Maritime Services.

m. Resolution MSC.468(101) – AMENDMENTS TO PROMULGATION OF MARITIME SAFETY INFORMATION (RESOLUTION A.705(17), AS AMENDED)

The resolution adopts the Revised recommendation on promulgation of Maritime Safety Information, which sets out the organisation, standards and methods which should be used for the promulgation and reception of Maritime Safety Information (MSI).

n. Resolution MSC.469(101) – AMENDMENTS TO WORLD-WIDE NAVIGATIONAL WARNING SERVICE (RESOLUTION A.706(17), AS AMENDED)

The resolution adopts Revised IMO/IHO World-Wide Navigational Warning Service – Guidance Document, set out in the annex to the present resolution, which revises in its entirety the existing text of annex 1, annex 2 and the appendix to resolution A.706(17), as amended by MSC.1/Circ.1288 and MSC.1/Circ.1288/Rev.1

o. Resolution MSC.470(101) – AMENDMENTS TO IMO/WMO
WORLDWIDE MET-OCEAN INFORMATION AND WARNING
SERVICE – GUIDANCE DOCUMENT (RESOLUTION A.1051(27))

The resolution adopts the Revised IMO/WMO Worldwide Met-Ocean
Information and Warning Service ‒ Guidance Document, set out in the annex to the resolution, which revises in its entirety the existing text of the annex to resolution A.1051(27).

p. esolution MSC.471(101) – PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR FLOAT-FREE EMERGENCY POSITION-INDICATING RADIO BEACONS (EPIRBS) OPERATING ON 406 MHZ

The resolution adopts the Recommendation on performance standards for float-free Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) operating on 406 MHz, as a component of the GMDSS and operating through the Cospas-Sarsat System in the frequency band 406-406.1 MHz, should be type-approved to ensure the integrity of the CospasSarsat satellite system, avoid harmful interference to the spaceborne equipment, exclude unauthorised transmissions, and to provide reliable data to rescue coordination centres.  

5. The resolutions adopted by MSC 102 include the following:
a. Resolution MSC.474(102) – AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION FOR THE SAFETY OF LIFE AT SEA, 1974, AS AMENDED

The resolution adopts the following amendments to SOLAS:
i. Chapter II-1 – Regulation 1 Application

This relates to the amendment to regulation II-1/3 on the application dates for the new amendment in relation to the application of the new requirements for towing and mooring equipment.

ii. Chapter II-1 – Regulation II-1/3-8 Towing and mooring equipment

This relates to the amendment to SOLAS chapter II-1/3-8 concerning the new requirement for towing and mooring equipment on ships.

iii. Chapter II-1 – Regulation 7-2, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 17-1, 19, 21, 22, 23 and 42 

This relates to the amendment to regulation 7-2, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 17-1, 19, 21, 22, 23 and 42 in relation to ship’s subdivision, stability and watertight integrity requirements.  

The above amendments to SOLAS 74, as amended, will enter into force on 1 January 2024. 

b. Resolution MSC.475(102) – AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL CODE OF SAFETY FOR SHIPS USING GASES OR OTHER LOW-FLASHPOINT FUELS (IGF CODE)

The resolution adopts amendments to sections 6 (Fuel containment system), 11 (Fire safety) and 16 (Manufacture, workmanship and testing) of the IGF Code, concerning regulations for the pressure relief system and fuel preparation room fire-extinguishing systems, and the welding of metallic materials and non-destructive testing for the fuel containment system. The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2024.

c. Resolution MSC.476(102) – AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL CODE FOR CONSTRUCTION AND EQUIPMENT OF SHIPS CARRYING LIQUEFIED GASES IN BULK (IGC CODE)

The resolution adopts amendments to chapter 6 (Materials of construction and quality control) of the IGC Code, concerning welding procedure tests for cargo tanks and process pressure vessels. The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2024.

d. Resolution MSC.477(102) – AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL MARITIME DANGEROUS GOODS CODE (IMDG CODE)

The resolution adopts the amendments (40-20) to the IMDG Code, as part of its 2-yearly periodic review to continuously update the Code. A consolidated text of the IMDG Code was also adopted at MSC 102. The amendments will enter into force on 1 June 2022.

e. Resolution MSC.478(102) – AMENDMENTS TO PART B OF THE SEAFARERS' TRAINING, CERTIFICATION AND WATCHKEEPING (STCW) CODE

The resolution adopts amendments to part B (recommendatory part) of the STCW Code. The amendment will be applicable from 1 January 2021. 

f. Resolution MSC. 479(102) – REVISED GUIDELINES FOR SECURING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE TRANSPORT OF ROAD VEHICLES ON RO-RO SHIPS 

The resolution adopts amendments to the on Guidelines for securing arrangements for the transport of road vehicles on ro-ro ships, which replace resolution A.581(14), as amended.


g. Resolution MSC. 480(102) – PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR SHIPBORNE JAPANESE QUASI-ZENITH SATELLITE SYSTEM (QZSS) RECEIVER EQUIPMENT

The resolution adopts the Performance standards for shipborne Japanese Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS) receiver equipment. Shipborne Japanese QZSS receiver equipment installed on Singapore ships on or after 1 January 2024 should conform to performance standards not inferior to that specified in the resolution.

h. Resolution MSC.429(98)/REV.1 – REVISED EXPLANATORY NOTES TO THE SOLAS CHAPTER II-1 SUBDIVISION AND DAMAGE STABILITY REGULATIONS (in effect until 31 December 2023)

This resolution adopts the Revised explanatory notes to the SOLAS chapter II-1 subdivision and damage stability regulations. The Revised Explanatory Notes take effect on ships as defined in SOLAS regulation II-1/1.1.1, as adopted by resolution MSC.421(98) and revokes resolution MSC.429(98).

i. Resolution MSC.429(98)/REV.2 – REVISED EXPLANATORY NOTES TO THE SOLAS CHAPTER II-1 SUBDIVISION AND DAMAGE STABILITY REGULATIONS (in effect from 1 January 2024)

This resolution adopts the consolidated Revised explanatory notes to the SOLAS chapter II-1 and included additional amendments to regulations on subdivision and damage stability, as contained in SOLAS chapter II1. The resolution is applicable to ships as defined in SOLAS regulation II-1/1.1.1.1, as adopted by resolution MSC.474(102). The consolidated Revised Explanatory Notes will take effect and revokes resolution MSC.429(98)/Rev.1 on 1 January 2024.  

j. RESOLUTION MSC.62(67)/REV.1) – REVISED GUIDELINES FOR SAFE ACCESS TO TANKER BOWS

The resolution adopts the Revised guidelines for safe access to tanker bows and revokes resolution MSC.62(67).

k. Resolution MSC.481(102)) – REVISED RECOMMENDATION ON THE USE AND FITTING OF RETRO-REFLECTIVE MATERIALS ON LIFESAVING APPLIANCES 

The resolution adopts the Revised recommendation on the use and fitting of retro-reflective materials on life-saving appliances and the Technical specification for retro-reflective materials for use on life-saving appliances.

6. The resolutions adopted by MSC 103 include the following:
a. Resolution MSC.482(103) – AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION FOR THE SAFETY OF LIFE AT SEA, 1974, AS AMENDED

The resolution adopts the following amendments to SOLAS:
i. Chapter II-1 Regulation 25-1 - Water level detectors on multiple hold cargo ships other than bulk carriers and tankers

This relates to the new regulation II-1/25-1 to require multiple hold cargo ships other than bulk carriers and tankers constructed on or after 1 January 2024 to be fitted with water level detectors.

ii. Chapter III Regulation 33 – Survival craft embarkation and launching arrangements

This relates to the amendment to regulation III/ 33.2 to mandate only davit-launched lifeboats be capable of being launched, utilising painters where necessary, with the ship making headway at speeds up to 5 knots in calm water, instead of all types of lifeboats.

The above amendments to SOLAS 74, as amended, will enter into force on 1 January 2024. 

b. Resolution MSC.483(103) – AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL CODE ON THE ENHANCED PROGRAMME OF INSPECTIONS DURING SURVEYS OF BULK CARRIERS AND OIL TANKERS (ESP CODE), 2011

The resolution adopts amendments to the 2011 ESP Code where in the table for "Minimum requirements for thickness measurements at renewal surveys of double-hull oil tankers", the column for "Renewal Survey No.1" is replaced by the wording "1 Suspect areas" The amendment shall enter into force on 1 January 2023.

c. Resolution MSC.484(103) – AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL CODE FOR FIRE SAFETY SYSTEMS (FSS CODE)

The resolution adopts amendments to the chapter 9 of the FSS Code to clarify on the requirements for isolator modules in cargo ships and on passenger ship cabin balconies, where an individually identifiable system is fitted. The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2024.

d. Resolution MSC.485(103) – AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL LIFE-SAVING APPLIANCE CODE (LSA CODE)

The resolution adopts amendments to paragraph 4.4.1.3.2 of the LSA Code to reflect the changes to SOLAS III/33. The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2024.

e. Resolution MSC.486(103) – AMENDMENTS TO THE INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION ON STANDARDS OF TRAINING, CERTIFICATION AND WATCHKEEPING FOR SEAFARERS (STCW), 1978

The resolution adopts the amendment to Regulation I/1.1.44 of the 1978 STCW Convention to include a new definition on High-voltage. The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2023.

f. Resolution MSC.487(103) – AMENDMENTS TO PART A OF THE SEAFARERS TRAINING, CERTIFICATION AND WATCHKEEPING CODE (STCW CODE)

The resolution adopts amendment to the section A-I/1 subparagraph .3.1 of the STCW Code under the definition for "Operational level". The amendments will enter into force on 1 January 2023.

g. Resolution MSC.488(103) – AMENDMENTS TO THE REVISED RECOMMENDATION ON TESTING OF LIFE-SAVING APPLIANCES (RESOLUTION MSC.81(70))

The resolution adopts amendments to the Revised recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances (resolution MSC.81(70)) relating to material tests of inflatable liferafts, technical tests for hydrostatic release units and launch test of survival craft. 

h. Resolution MSC.489(103) – RECOMMENDED ACTION TO ADDRESS PIRACY AND ARMED ROBBERY IN THE GULF OF GUINEA

The resolution informs on escalation in the number and severity of attacks in the Gulf of Guinea region and brings this resolution to the attention of all relevant stakeholders.

i. Resolution MSC.490(103) – RECOMMENDED ACTION TO PRIORITISE COVID-19 VACCINATION OF SEAFARERS   

The resolution informs on the recommended action to prioritise COVID19 vaccination of seafarers and brings this resolution to the attention of all parties concerned. 

7. Queries relating to this circular should be directed to email shipping@mpa.gov.sg.


CHEAH AUN AUN
DIRECTOR OF MARINE
MARITIME AND PORT AUTHORITY OF SINGAPORE