22 Several amendments to International Maritime Organization (IMO) treaties and codes came into force on 1 January 2026 to improve safety for seafarers and passengers. The new amendments to the IMO’s Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Chapter II-2 aim to protect ships from fire hazards. They require ships to have a fixed fire detection and fire alarm system; an efficient fire patrol system in special category spaces; and an effective video monitoring system in vehicle, special category and ro-ro spaces for continuous monitoring and quick identification of a fire. The amendments also require a signed and certified declaration by the fuel oil supplier’s representative, prior to bunkering, stating the oil fuel supplied conforms with the rule and test method used for determining the flashpoint. Amendments to the International Code of Safety for Ship Using Gases or Other Low-flashpoint Fuels have been introduced to improve safety on all ships using alternative fuels. The update regulates a variety of issues, including pump suction wells, safety relief valve discharge, fuel preparation rooms, structural fire protection and hazardous zones. The International Life-Saving Appliance Code introduces technical and performance standards for life saving appliances and launching arrangements, including improved lifejacket performance, better release hook safety and controlled lowering speeds for survival craft. Stricter ventilation for totally enclosed lifeboats will come into force in January 2029. The Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) Convention has been updated to prevent and respond to violence and harassment in the maritime sector, including sexual harassment, bullying and sexual assault. The amendments outline new mandatory minimum requirements for basic training and instruction for seafarers to equip them with knowledge and understanding of violence and harassment, as well as information on how to prevent and respond to incidents. The IMO hopes to modernise global standards for seafarer competence by addressing over 600 identified gaps, outdated requirements and new industry challenges in the STCW Convention. It is hoped the review will be completed by 2030 to ensure relevance and consistency in training, certification and watchkeeping for the global maritime workforce. A number of rules and regulations are also undergoing formal review by the IMO, with amendments expected to be adopted later in 2026. The Phase 2 review of the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index and Carbon Intensity Indicator aims to refine the Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan framework, with a 40 per cent reduction in carbon intensity by 2030 (compared to 2008). It is hoped a review of the Ballast Water Management Convention will resolve practical challenges and ineffective implementation as well as improving crew MARKETWATCH IMO revises safety and environmental standards Cruise and ferry lines and operators must now comply with several amendments to key IMO treaties Photo: IMO
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