The 107th session of the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 107) from 31 May to 9 June 2023 has adopted New SOLAS amendments on lifting appliances and anchor handling, and new mandatory requirements for ventilation of totally enclosed lifeboats.
In addition, a new Code of Safety for Diving Systems to enhance the safety of divers in fixed and portable diving systems was adopted. Interim guidelines for the safety of ships using LPG fuels were approved, as well as interim guidelines for the safe operation of onshore power supply services in ports. DNV has provided an analysis of the key issues discussed as follows: Continue reading “New SOLAS amendments on lifting appliances and anchor handling winches”
Notice to all shipowners, masters, deck and engineer officers, certifying authorities and surveyors involved with yachts. This MGN 681 (M) notice should be read with the Red Ensign Group Yacht Code Parts A and B.
Cargo fires are a well known challenge amongst shipping industry stakeholders. Fire onboard can result in major casualties, including loss of life. Yet, fire safety remains the most common ship deficiency area.
The Inland Waterways Association (IWA) is an independent, national charity campaigning for Britain’s canals and rivers, and Niblock will have primary responsibility for the organisation’s long-term strategy.
The Cargo Fire & Loss Innovation Initiative is calling for innovators to come forward with solutions for early-stage fire detection, one of the most important issues in the drive to mitigate container loss.
The National Transportation Safety Board (
CHIRP Maritime has published its eighth annual digest of maritime safety reports, covering all the cases published during 2022. Additionally, it includes some in-depth articles specially commissioned to highlight important safety topics.
The International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) Maritime Barometer Report 2022-2023 reveals that uncertainty over fuel availability and infrastructure puts at risk ambitions to meet decarbonization targets, reinforcing the need for a clear plan of action to mitigate risk.
It fascinates me when two industry sectors combine, and it is great to know that an older OSV can be put to good use as a new spaceport. Recently I read an article about a former offshore supply vessel that is reportedly destined to become the world’s first marine spaceport for human spaceflight. Classification society ABS has reported it is supporting the planned reactivation and modifications to the 25-year-old vessel, which is expected to be operational later this year as part of test flights in advance of an anticipated 2024 commercial launch. 
The Faraday Institution has published a report analysing the role of hydrogen and batteries in delivering net zero in the UK, including transportation, manufacturing, the built environment, and power sectors, to 2050. Both are anticipated to play an increasingly vital role as the UK transitions to a low-carbon future to address critical concerns of climate change and energy security.