Consideration and adoption of amendments to mandatory instruments (agenda item 3)

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1 Lloyd's Register briefing IMO MSC 89 Summary report for clients Overview The 89 th session of the IMO Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) Sub-Committee was held from 11th to 20th May 2011, at the IMO headquarters in London, the United Kingdom. This briefing is to provide a summary of discussions that are of relevance to Lloyd s Register and its clients. For the summary of the various instruments (amendments to conventions, approval of circulars etc), please refer to Annex 2 of this report. Major issues discussed were Lifeboat release and retrieval System (under agenda item 3) Piracy and maritime security issues (under agenda item 4 and 18) Conclusion of generic GBS (Goal Based Standard) guideline (under agenda item 5) Bulk carrier related matters (list of cargoes that qualify for exemption of the fixed gas fire-extinguishers and liquefaction of cargo) (under agenda item 7) Application of coating requirements to the wing spaces of ore carriers and combination carriers (under agenda item 8) Passenger ship stability - introducing a mandatory requirement for either onboard stability computers or shore-based support for passenger ships which have to comply with the safe return to port requirements (under agenda item 9) The colour of life saving appliances, including lifeboat (under agenda item 13) Progress on the Formal Safety Assessment (under agenda item 16) Consideration and adoption of amendments to mandatory instruments (agenda item 3) MSC 89 adopted the following: Amendments to the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code (Resolution MSC.268 (85)) - entry into force on 1 January Background: The new IMSBC Code lays down requirements for ships wishing to carry cargoes listed in the Code. Since requirements for cargoes are amended and new cargoes are added, it is known that the Code will need regular updating. Accordingly, the IMO has designed and implemented a system whereby the DSC Sub-Committee decides and recommends changes on a rolling two year basis. Summary: The IMSBC Code is enacted by Resolution MSC.268(85). It is intended to be reviewed and amended on a rolling two year basis by actions taken at the DSC Sub-Committee. The latest amendments include such major items as; clarifying the roles and responsibilities for the cargo, especially by replacing the words competent authority with Administration (in general this indicates whether it is a permanent requirement that might be built into the ship, and hence is covered by the Administration during build or modification, or if the requirement is more temporary in nature and may be done by the competent authority ); identifying cargoes where the ship s fixed gas fire-extinguishing system may be ineffective, and how to act accordingly;

2 further identifying cargoes which may self heat, deplete the atmosphere of oxygen, cake or other negative effect; identifying cargoes where bunkering of fuel oil or pumping of fuel oil in adjacent spaces is not allowed; major new entry for distillers dried grains with soluble which basically describes it as reasonably benign Fly ash is now split into dry fly ash with the same requirements as previously, and wet fly ash which has hazards so that it may liquefy; new entry for Granular Ferrous Sulphate, with several operational requirements; and identifying many cargoes which are liable to cake and especially form overhangs during discharge. Implications: Builder/Designer: Shipyards need to follow the IMSBC Code for cargoes for which the ship is designed to carry. They need to be aware of this amendment at an early stage. There are no actual major modifications or new designs proposed by this amendment except for the requirement for the ability to apply copious amounts of water for cargoes where the fixed gas fire-extinguishing system may not work, and it is assumed this will be accepted by some arrangement from the fire main. Manufacturer: This amendment does not include significant changes to manufacturers, except for the potential for more measuring and detection equipment on a temporary basis and possibly to provide equipment to assist in the provision of copious amounts of water for some cargoes where the fixed gas fire-extinguishing system may be ineffective. Shipowners/manager: Shipowners and managers are to note the following: For cargoes where it has been identified that the fixed gas fire-extinguishing system may be ineffective, new arrangements, albeit temporary, may have to be fitted such as extra fire hoses. Extra caution will be needed for cargoes which may cake. New cargoes which may self heat or deplete the atmosphere of oxygen. The identification of the Administration being responsible for certain elements may assist in ascertaining that it is expected to be a permanent feature or one fitted at build or modification. Issues with bunkering or moving fuel oil adjacent to certain new cargoes. New cargo listings for: Distillers dried grains with soluble, wet fly ash (may liquefy), Ferrous Sulphate Heptahydrate, granular Ferrous Sulphate, and Magnesium Sulphate fertilisers. Flag Administration/RO: Most cargoes have certain requirements and thus it is principally a question of checking the latest version of the Code to see which requirement is applicable for that particular cargo. In the limited instances of unusual requirements, the familiarisation needed to comply is minimal. Application: All ships carrying solid bulk cargoes regardless of ship type or date of construction. Amendment to the International Code on Intact Stability, 2008 (2008 IS Code) Summary: MSC 87 approved the draft MSC resolution on the amendment to part B of the 2008 IS Code, with a view to adoption at MSC 88, to update the stability criteria applicable to MODUs in the 2008 IS Code. Due to unforeseen circumstances adoption was deferred until MSC 89. Changes to part B of the 2008 IS Code were prepared to take into consideration the introduction of the 2009 MODU Code. The current text will be amended to state where the intact stability requirements for MODUs can be found depending on the date of build. Implications: The existing section 2.6 (intact criteria for MODUs) is replaced by a new one. This resolution is the amendment to part B (recommendatory part) of the 2008 IS Code, however, the Governments concerned are recommended to use this revised Code as a basis for relevant safety standards, unless their national stability requirements provide at least an equivalent degree of safety..

3 Application: The above changes in the 2008 IS Code refers to 2009 MODU Code. The 2009 MODU code is applicable to MODUs: constructed on or after 1 January 2012, chapter 3 of the 2009 MODU Code, adopted by Resolution A.1023(26) should apply. constructed before 1 January 2012, but on or after 1 May 1991, chapter 3 of the 1989 MODU Code, adopted by Resolution A.649(16) should apply. constructed before 1 May 1991, chapter 3 of Resolution A.414(XI) should apply. A set of instruments concerning safety of lifeboat Release and Retrieval Systems (RRS), i.e., o o o o o amendments to SOLAS regulation III/1 amendments to the LSA Code MSC resolution on Amendments to the Revised recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances (resolution MSC.81(70)), as amended MSC circular on Guidelines for evaluation and replacement of lifeboat release and retrieval systems MSC circular on Early application of new SOLAS regulation III/1.5 The legal entry into force date was set up as 1 January 2013, but various threshold dates were set out as given as follows: o Application to new ships (new construction) from 1 July 2014 o Compliance dead line for existing ship - first dry docking after 1 July 2014 but not later than 1 July 2019 o Reporting deadline for the design review - by 1 July 2013 In summary, it is intended that the new hook design is applied to new ships constructed on or after 1 July 2014, and existing hooks used onboard ships will have to undergo assessment by the manufacturer and design review by the flag/ro, performance tests of RRS (as a part of design review) and onboard verification (for all RRSs) by the first dry docking scheduled on or after 1 July 2014 but not later than 1 July New RRS would have to comply with the revised LSA Code chapter IV. More details of the requirements for new RSS are given in Annex 1. Lloyd s Register is preparing a detailed guidance for owners on the details of the requirements which will be released shortly. An explanation of each instrument given above is given in Annex 1 of this document. Measures to enhance maritime security (agenda item 4) The following were the primary points of discussion that are relevant to the work of Lloyd s Register. The IMO user guide for SOLAS Chapter XI-2 and the ISPS Code was approved. The purpose of this guide is to consolidate existing IMO maritime security-related instruments into an easily read companion guide to SOLAS chapter XI-2 and the ISPS Code. Introduction of mandatory survey of Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) was discussed, as members shared concerns over a number of failures of the alert signal transmission. However, MSC 89 agreed that proper implementation of testing required by the ISPS Code A/19.1 should address the problem, thus no further measures would be needed. Goal-based new ship construction standards (agenda item 5) The amendments to SOLAS to make goal-based new ship construction standards (GBS) mandatory for oil tankers and bulk carriers were concluded at MSC 87. Work continued at MSC 89 on the overall framework for GBS development, verification, implementation and monitoring, which could eventually be applied to regulations governing other ship types and ship parts other than the hull. MSC 89 approved an MSC Circular on Generic guidelines for developing IMO goal-based standards. These guidelines include the monitoring and verification process for rules and regulations developed in accordance with GBS. It was

4 confirmed that the principle of GBS is to develop rules for rules rather than directly rules for ships. There is still some uncertainty over the future development at IMO and the potential wider application of GBS, but some issues were noted for future consideration by IMO. It was agreed that the longer-term work will include as a high-priority item further development of the safety level approach (SLA) for developing rules and regulations, as an alternative to a prescriptive approach. Dangerous goods, solid cargoes and containers (agenda item 7) MSC 89 reviewed the report of the fifteenth session of the DSC Sub-Committee (Sub-Committee on Dangerous Goods, Solid cargoes and Containers). The following instruments were approved by MSC 89 under this agenda item: MSC circular on Lists of solid bulk cargoes for which a fixed gas fire-extinguishing system may be exempted, or for which a fixed gas fire-extinguishing system is ineffective; MSC circular on Recommendations on the safe use of pesticides in ships applicable to the fumigation of cargo holds; Please note that: Assembly resolution on the Code of Safe Practice for Ships Carrying Timber Deck Cargoes, 2011 (2011 TDC Code) was agreed in general. However, MSC 89 instructed DSC 16 (scheduled in September 2011) to review the documents submitted to MSC 89 on the further refinement of the draft code prior to the final adoption by the Assembly scheduled for November The draft new Timber Code was accepted in general, but several comments, including possible problems with compatibility with Timber requirements in the Load Line Convention should be resolved by DSC 16 for direct acceptance at the Assembly in November. Assembly resolution on Adoption of the Revised Recommendations for entering enclosed spaces aboard ships was discussed under agenda item 11. In addition, MSC 89 addressed the following issues: Establishment of a permanent intersessional Editorial and Technical Group for the review of the IMSBC Code The IMSBC Code came into force on1 January In order facilitate preparation of future amendments to the code, which is expected to enter into force every two years, MSC 89 agreed to establish an Editorial and Technical Group (E & T Group) which will be held twice in an even year (i.e., 2012, ) prior to the final conclusion of the amendments to the code.). This means, that there will be no Working Group on the review of the IMSBC Code during the session of a DSC Sub-Committee meeting. The final decision will be made by a future session of the IMO s Council as this proposal has a budget implication. Measures to improve safe transportation of solid bulk cargoes Accidents resulted in loss of life, primarily caused by liquefaction of cargo during voyages were addressed with concerns. The matter will be further discussed by DSC 16. Ship design and equipment (agenda item 8) Outcome of DE 54 and DE 55 MSC 89 reviewed for approval the outcome of DE 54 (October 2010) and DE 55 (March 2011). It should be noted that, as DE 55 was held close to MSC 89 meeting, only urgent matters were discussed at MSC 89. Non-urgent matters will be considered at MSC 90 (May 2012). The list of instruments approved/adopted at MSC 89 that are relevant to Lloyd s Register and its clients is given in Annex 2. Particular attention is to be paid to the following items:

5 Draft amendment to SOLAS III/ to introduce a New sub-paragraph 4 regarding operational test of free-fall lifeboats Background: The testing of free-fall lifeboats can pose safety risks to those carrying out the test. This amendment will permit a simulated launching in place of an actual launch for free-fall lifeboats. Summary: A simulated launch will be permitted during all drills involving free-fall lifeboats. Implication: Owners: will be able to advise crews that simulated launches of free-fall lifeboats will be permitted from 1 January Application: To SOLAS ships fitted with a freefall lifeboat. Expected entry into force date is 1 January Additional matter brought directly to MSC 89 In addition, MSC 89 addressed the application of SOLAS regulation II-1/3-2 to ore carriers and combination carriers. This was directly brought to the attention of MSC 89. In the course of the discussion, it was confirmed that SOLAS regulation II-1/3-2 applies to wing spaces of ore carriers and combination carriers, even if they are not used as ballast tanks. Stability and Load Lines and Fishing Vessels safety (agenda item 9) MSC 89 reviewed the outcome of SLF 53. The list of instruments approved/adopted at MSC 89 that are relevant to Lloyd s Register and its clients are given in Annex 2. Particular attention should be paid to the following items: Draft amendments to SOLAS regulation II-1/8-1 to introduce a mandatory requirement for either onboard stability computers or shore-based support Background: this amendment to SOLAS requires passenger ships with three or more main vertical fire zones or of 120 metres in length or more to have either an onboard computer capable of calculating damage stability after a flooding incident, or to have access to a facility on shore which can provide this information. Summary: This amendment will require applicable ships to be provided with either an on board stability computer or shore based support in accordance with the guidelines which have been developed (see Annex 2). Implication: Owners/operators: will need to ensure that the necessary computer functionality is provided. Where this is onboard they will need to ensure that adequate training is provided to the crew to ensure familiarity with the system. Builders: will need to ensure that suitable provision is made. Manufacturers: will need to be aware of the need for software which can calculate damage stability for any given damage (not pre-defined damages). Flag Administrations / Recognized Organizations: will need to ensure that the necessary stability information is available on board the affected ships. There will be a need to ensure that access to the necessary calculations is provided and confirmed at annual survey. The approval of the stability element will become more complex and may require more time. Consideration should be given to the method of approval of shore based systems and whether approval of the support provided is required. Application: to passenger ships with a length of 120 m or more or having three or more main vertical fire zones constructed on or after 1 January (Note: Date will be concluded at MSC 90 scheduled in May 2012 at the final adoption)

6 Bulk liquids and gases (agenda item 11) MSC 89 reviewed the outcome of BLG 15. The list of instruments approved/adopted at MSC 89 that are relevant to Lloyd s Register and its clients are given in Annex 2. Particular attention is to be paid to the following items: Draft Assembly resolution on Revised Recommendations for entering enclosed spaces aboard ships DSC 15 completed its work on the draft new recommendation to replace A864(20) as well as the related notes for the draft assembly Resolution. The BLG Sub-Committee was tasked to develop separate guidelines for the entry into tanks using Nitrogen as an inerting media. As a result the proposed draft s consequential modifications to these recommendations gives a brief explanation of the dangers of Nitrogen to human health when it is present in a tank. The reader is directed to the separate guidelines on tank entry using Nitrogen as an inerting medium (see below). Ships which use Nitrogen as an inerting medium and ships where Nitrogen may be present in tanks should review their tank entry procedures to take account of this modification. Implications: These recommendations will affect everyone who may enter enclosed spaces onboard ship especially crews, but also visitors such as surveyors, port state control and even stevedores and cargo handlers. All stakeholders will be expected to follow these recommendations due to the regularity and severity of incidents. Application: All ships after publication of the Resolution, expected soon after the 27 th Assembly. All operators, crews, surveyors, visitors, stevedores, cargo handlers and others will need to be aware of the new requirements. Operators in particular will need to note the recommendations for risk assessments and identifying all potential enclosed spaces onboard ships. Visitors will have to assess their safety procedures in accordance with the new shipboard procedures. MSC circular on Guidelines on tank entry for tankers using Nitrogen as an inerting medium The guidelines on tank entry using Nitrogen as an inerting medium were developed which give specific procedures and minimum precautions to be followed when persons enter a tank that has contained Nitrogen, in order to reduce the risk of asphyxiation. This new guidance also includes the format of a tank entry permit for use when entering tanks that have contained Nitrogen. It is intended that this guidance is used in conjunction with the revised recommendations for entering enclosed spaces aboard ships. Ships which use Nitrogen as an inerting medium and ships where Nitrogen may be present in tanks should review their tank entry procedures to take account of this new guidance. Draft amendments to SOLAS chapter VI, regarding the prohibition of the blending of bulk liquid cargoes during the sea voyage, with a view to subsequent adoption Background: BLG at previous sessions has considered the issue of blending bio fuels onboard and concluded that blending onboard can be permitted only when a ship is in port and is not to be carried out on a sea voyage. This view was agreed by MSC 86 and subsequently endorsed by MEPC 59. BLG 15 finalised a draft amendment to SOLAS chapter VI. Summary: A new regulation, SOLAS/VI-5.2 will be introduced which will ban the blending of bulk liquid cargoes during a sea voyage. The new regulation will not prohibit the master from undertaking cargo transfers to secure the safety of the ship or protect the marine environment or the blending of products for use in the search and exploitation of sea-bed mineral resources. Implication: The new regulation was developed with the intention to prohibit the blending of bio-fuel at sea. Blending of any bulk cargoes that produces a cargo with a new product designation will be prohibited except in those cases specifically exempted from the regulation.

7 Application: All ships which carry bulk liquid cargoes. Radiocommunications and search and rescue (agenda item 13) MSC 89 agreed the decision of the COMSAR Sub-Committee that the existing IACS interpretation provided sufficient clarification and required the use of adequate colours to ensure optimal visual sighting of lifeboats in the context of the LSA Code and therefore the proposed amendment was not necessary. The IACS interpretation on LSA Code paragraph be of international or vivid reddish orange, or a comparably highly visible colour on all parts where this will assist detection at sea is Highly visible colour only includes colours of strong chromatic content, e.g., pure achromatic colours such as white and all shades of grey shall not be accepted as comparable colours. Formal safety assessment (agenda item 16) MSC 89 considered several risk control options (RCOs) which were identified by the FSA on general cargo ship safety which IACS carried out. These RCOs were grouped by cost-effectiveness. They mainly cover operational issues, but some are equipment-related. MSC 89 decided that they were not yet specifically defined enough to be sent for consideration by subcommittees, and therefore decided to revisit them during a joint GBS/FSA WG to be convened during MSC 90. MSC 89 considered some revisions to the Guidelines for FSA and to the Guidance on the use of the human element analysis process (HEAP) and FSA in the IMO rule-making process. The revision included clarification and unification of some of the terminology, and methods of presenting FSA reports to ensure that the findings can be used by both FSA nonexperts and FSA experts. The revisions were not finalised at MSC 89, so a correspondence group was established to prepare these draft amendments ready for MSC 90. See agenda item 17 below. General cargo ship safety (agenda item 17) This item is linked with agenda item 16 on formal safety assessment (FSA). An FSA Experts Group which took place in the two days immediately before MSC 89 reviewed studies including an FSA carried out by IACS on general cargo ships. In general, MSC 89 confirmed that the FSA study is following the methodology established by IMO. MSC will further address risk control options given in the study at a future session. Piracy and armed robbery against ships (agenda item 18) In recent years, the primary focus has been on pirates off the Somali coast, up to the Eastern Indian Ocean. The violence has escalated to an intolerable degree. IMO has been making various efforts, such as liaising with other UN bodies, including Headquarters in New York, and working on the establishment of a regional agreement to tackle piracy. Governments are also making efforts such as deployment of joint naval forces. Industry has also been making its own efforts, such as publishing Best Management Practices (BMP), through which various actions have been co-ordinated between ships (shipowners) and authorities (including joint naval forces). The primary focus at MSC 89 is the use of private armed guards. Although this has many legal implications for both the shipowner and the flag state, some owners have already been taking this option for their own reassurance and under the incentive of an insurance premium reduction. There are more than 100 companies offering this service but they are not regulated. IMO is developing guidance for owners for the employment of such guards. Another issue on Piracy is difficulties of prosecution, even for pirates who are arrested. Proper collection of evidence and preservation of crime scene was urged. In addition, member governments were concerned that some shipowners/managers are not properly following industry s Best Management Practice (BMP). The importance of notifications/reporting stipulated in the BMP was stressed. The following is the primary outcome of MSC 89.

8 MSC circular on interim guidance to shipowners, ship operators and shipmasters of the use of privately contracted armed security personnel onboard ship in the High Risk Area; MSC Circular on Interim recommendations for flag States regarding the use of privately contracted armed security personnel on board ships in the High Risk Area; MSC circular for flag States and other authority to assist in the investigation of crimes of piracy and armed robbery against ships; and MSC Resolution on Implementation of Best Management Practice Guidance Implementation of instruments and related matters (agenda item 19) Under this agenda item, the following was discussed: Application of SOLAS regulation II-2/19 (previous regulation 54) to ships built between 1984 and 2002; and Status of IMO Conventions. With regard to the SOLAS regulation II-2/19 (previous regulation 54) a draft amendment to the SOLAS regulation clarifying applicability (ships constructed between 1984 and 2002 are not subject to the requirements) was approved for adoption at MSC 90. Meanwhile, an MSC Circular on this issue was also approved for the purpose of early notification. New proposed work programmes (agenda item 22) The following new work programme items were approved by MSC 89 for the work of the next biannual budget period of IMO ( ) Protection of the AIS VHF Data Link; Guidance on Continuous Examination Programmes; Amendment to the General Provisions on Ships' Routeing; Review of arrangement requirements of foam-type fire-extinguishers of 135 l in boiler-rooms and 45 l in enginerooms for cargo ships as required by SOLAS regulation II-2/10.5fire-fighting equipment (foam-type fire-extinguisher of 135 little and 45 little amendment to the MODU Code ; Amendment of the 2008 IS Code - criterion for angle of heel in turns Review of provisions of application in SOLAS chapter II-1, regulation 4.1, on subdivision standards for cargo ships Enhancing efficiency and user-friendliness of the International Safety Management (ISM) Code Review of the Code on Alerts and Indicators, 2009 Measures to prevent loss of containers Requirements for construction and installation of onboard lifting appliances Follow-up actions to the 2010 Manila amendments to the 1978 STCW Convention Provisions to ensure the integrity and uniform application of the 1969 TM Convention Expanding the scope of the planned output on "Review of damage stability regulations for ro-ro passenger ships" Any other business (Agenda item 24) Issues relating to transfer of personnel at sea and anomaly of ECDIS (Electronic Chard Display and Information System) raised concerns among members. These issues were sent to relevant Sub-Committees for further discussions. Advice for clients

9 With regard to matters relating to on-load release and retrieval mechanism (hooks), although entry into force date is still 3 years ahead, immediate attention will be required. For details of this issue, and other discussions introduced in the above, please refer to Annex 1 of this document. Applicability In general, discussions as explained in the above will be applicable to ships subject to the SOLAS convention, i.e., passenger ships of all size and 500 gt or above for ships other than passenger ships. For details, please refer to the detailed Lloyd Register s detailed report on the outcome of MSC 89 which will be released shortly through local offices. Please note that, unless specifically mentioned, the requirements will be applicable to ships engaged on international voyages only. What is LR doing? In general, Lloyd s Register is actively undertaking statutory survey and certification on behalf of flag Administrations. Following the above decision made by MSC 89, Lloyd s Register is preparing documents, such as Classification News on the specific items. With regard to Items concerning life boat release and retrieval systems that were discussed under agenda item 3, detailed guidance will be released shortly. A more detailed report on the outcome of MSC 89 which covers a brief introduction of all technical instruments is being prepared. Clients who wish to have such a detailed report, please contact local Lloyd s Register office.

10 Lloyd's Register briefing IMO MSC 89 Annex 1 - Brief introduction of instruments adopted/approved that relate to Lifeboat Release and Retrieval system (RRS) Amendment to SOLAS III/1.5 to introduce a Requirement to replace non-compliant lifeboat on-load release mechanisms Background: This amendment introduces the requirement to confirm that lifeboat on-load release mechanisms comply with the amended LSA Code or are replaced. Summary: A new subparagraph is added to SOLAS regulation III/1 which requires compliance with the LSA Code not later than the first scheduled dry-docking after 1 July 2014, but no later than 1 July Implications: Owners will have to ensure that existing lifeboat release and retrieval systems are assessed and replaced if necessary at the first scheduled dry-docking after 1 July 2014 and no later than 1 July Flag Administrations/ROs: will have to ensure that lifeboat release and retrieval systems are assessed and replaced as necessary. Application: To all lifeboat release and retrieval systems on all ships (new and existing). Amendments to the LSA Code Chapter IV, Survival Craft Background: These amendments introduce the requirements for on-load release and retrieval systems. Summary: Requirements cover: Wear and misalignment tolerance for individual components to be identified; Cam locked for rotation up to 45 degrees; The weight of the lifeboat does not cause any force to be transmitted to the operating mechanism; The locking devices shall be designed so that they cannot turn to open due to forces from the hook load; Hydrostatic interlock or similar device to be provided along with overriding capability; If a hydrostatic interlock is provided, it shall automatically reset upon lifting the boat from the water; Multiple, deliberate and sustained action or actions by the operator for On-load release; All components of the hook unit, release handle unit, control cables or mechanical operating links and the fixed structural connections in a lifeboat shall be of material corrosion resistant in the marine environment without the need for coatings or galvanizing; Built for life i.e. wear tolerance is within the expected wear in the lifecycle span; Mechanical operating links such as control cables shall be waterproof and shall have no exposed or unprotected areas; Factor of safety introduced for the design of hydrostatic interlock and operating cables. Implications: Manufacturers: will need to ensure designs comply with the requirements. Redesign may be necessary as a result. Application: to survival craft covered by chapter IV of the LSA Code. MSC circular on Guidelines for the evaluation and replacement of lifeboat release and retrieval systems Background: The guidelines provide guidance on how new and existing lifeboat release and retrieval systems should be evaluated for compliance with new SOLAS regulation III/1.5. (Annex 1)

11 Summary: There is a complex procedure to be followed which requires a design review, a performance test, reporting of the results, a one-time follow-up overhaul examination and a procedure for the replacement of non-compliant lifeboat release and retrieval systems. Until a system has been confirmed as meeting the requirements then a fall prevention device would be needed. Implications: Manufactures: will need to review their lifeboat release and retrieval systems. Owners: will need to identify the different systems installed on their ships. They will also have to consider the provision of fall prevention devices. Builders: may wish to consider only using equipment which has been assessed as meeting the requirements to avoid later replacement. Application: to all lifeboat release and retrieval systems MSC resolution on Amendments to the Revised recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances (resolution MSC.81(70)), as amended Background MSC. 81(70) was amended in order to reflect the developments made to the Guidelines for evaluation and replacement of existing lifeboat release and retrieval system (MSC.1/Circ.1392). The test requirements included in the guidelines were harmonized with the existing text in MSC 81(70) (as presented in DE 53/26 annex2), in order that the new lifeboat release and retrieval systems were tested to the same standard as existing lifeboat mechanisms being under a more stringent evaluation. Summary: MSC. 81(70) Prototype test for life saving appliance (Part 1), paragraph 6.93 to 6.95 of the release mechanism test for davit launched lifeboats were amended. The amendments will bring consistency when testing to demonstrate compliance with LSA Code irrespective of new or existing lifeboat release mechanism. Implication: Manufacturers: The Performance test required by MSC.1/Circ should be conducted using the test specified in Appendix 1 that has been harmonized with resolution MSC 81(70). Flag Administrations / ROs: ROs should witness this test and if it fails at any stage, the type of lifeboat release and retrieval system should be deemed non-compliant. Application: to all lifeboat release and retrieval systems. MSC circular on Early application of new SOLAS regulation III/1.5 Background: This circular encourages Flag Administrations to take the action necessary to start the evaluation of existing lifeboat release and retrieval systems as soon as possible. Summary: It is considered that evaluation of existing lifeboat release and retrieval systems should start as soon as possible and not wait until just before the implementation date. Implication: Manufacturers: are encouraged to start the process of design review for existing lifeboat release and retrieval systems as soon as possible to reduce the number of accidents with accidental early release. Flag Administrations / ROs: should develop procedures and train staff in the assessments required so that they are prepared when asked to confirm designs. Application: To all existing lifeboat release and retrieval systems. (Annex 1)

12 Lloyd's Register briefing IMO MSC 89 Annex 2 - List of instruments adopted/approved at MSC 89 Note: IMO resolutions and circulars numbers given below are tentative and may be changed by the IMO Secretariat in the course of release of the final MSC 89 Report. List of the mandatory resolutions adopted at the MSC 89 Resolution No. Title Entry into force date Related to MSC.317(89) SOLAS regulation III/1.5 to introduce a Requirement to replace non-compliant lifeboat on-load release mechanisms 1 January 2013 Amendments to mandatory instruments MSC.320(89) Amendments to the LSA Code Chapter IV, Survival Craft 1 January 2013 MSC.318(89) Amendments to the IMSBC Code 1 January 2013 List of the non-mandatory resolutions and circulars adopted/approved at the MSC 89 and introduced in this report MSC resolutions Resolution No. Title Intended application date Related to MSC.319(89) Amendment to the International Code on Intact Stability, 2008 (2008 IS Code) 19 May 2011 Adoption of mandatory instruments MSC.323(89) MSC Resolution to make Amendments to the revised recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances (Resolution MSC.81(70)) Adoption of mandatory instruments MSC.321(89) MSC Resolution to make Amendments to the revised recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances (Resolution MSC.81(70)) DE Sub-Committee (Annex 2)

13 MSC.324(89) MSC Resolution on Implementation of Best Management Practice Guidance Piracy and armed robbery against ships MSC Circulars Circular No. Title Intended application date Related to MSC.1/Circ.1392 MSC Circular on Guidelines for the evaluation and replacement of lifeboat release and retrieval systems Adoption of mandatory instruments MSC.1/Circ.1393 MSC circular on Early application of new SOLAS regulation III/1.5 Adoption of mandatory instruments MSC.1/Circ.1394 MSC Circular on generic guidelines for developing IMO Goal-Based Standards Not Stated Goal-based new ship construction standards MSC.1/Circ.1395 MSC circular on Lists of solid bulk cargoes for which a fixed gas fire-extinguishing system may be exempted or for which a fixed gas fire-extinguishing system is ineffective; DSC Sub-Committee MSC.1/Circ.1396 MSC circular on Recommendations on the safe use of pesticides in ships applicable to the fumigation of cargo holds MSC.1/Circ.1397 MSC Circular Unified interpretation of SOLAS regulation III/15.1 Stowage of marine evacuation systems MSC.1/Circ.1398 MSC Circular Unified interpretation of SOLAS regulation II-1/29 Mechanical, hydraulic and electrical independency and failure detection and response of steering control systems DE Sub-Committee MSC.1/Circ.1399 MSC circular on Guidelines on the procedures for inservice maintenance and repair of coating systems for cargo oil tanks of crude oil tankers MSC.1/Circ.1400 MSC Circular on Guidelines on operational information for masters of passenger ships for safe return to port by own power or under tow SLF Sub-Committee MSC.1/Circ.1401 MSC circular on Guidelines on tank entry for tankers using Nitrogen as an inerting medium BLG Sub-Committee MSC.1/Circ.1402 MSC Circular on Safety of pilot transfer arrangement FSI Sub-Committee MSC.1/Circ.1405 MSC circular on interim guidance to shipowners, ship operators ad shipmasters of the use of privately contracted armed security personnel onboard ship in the High Risk Area Piracy and armed robbery against ships MSC.1/Circ.1406 MSC Circular on Interim recommendations for flag States regarding the use of privately contracted armed (Annex 2)

14 security personnel on board ships in the High Risk Area MSC.1/Circ.1404 MSC circular on for flag States and other authority to assist in the investigation of crimes of piracy and armed robbery against ships List of the MSC-MEPC circulars approved at the MSC 89 and introduced in this report (subject to the concurrence at MEPC 62) Resolution / Circular No. Title Intended application date Related to To be assigned after MEPC 62 Draft MSC-MEPC Circular Unified interpretations on the application of SOLAS, MARPOL and load line requirements to conversions of single-hull oil tankers to double-hull oil tankers or bulk carriers DE Sub-Committee List of the draft Assembly Resolutions and circulars approved at the MSC 90 for adoption at 27 th Assembly (November 2011) that are introduced in this report Resolution / Circular No. Title Intended application date Related to Draft Assembly resolution on the Code of Safe Practice for Ships Carrying Timber Deck Cargoes, 2011 (2011 TDC Code) (Subject to further review by DSC 16 in September) Not state DSC Sub-Committee Draft Assembly resolution on Revised Recommendations for entering enclosed spaces aboard ships Not state BLG Sub-Committee To be assigned after 27 th Assembly Draft Assembly resolution for the Adoption of the International Code on the enhanced programme of inspections during surveys of bulk carriers and oil tankers 2011(ESP Code) Not state DE Sub-Committee Draft Assembly resolution on amendment to the 1966 LL Convention SLF Sub-Committee Draft amendments to A.997(25) - Survey Guidelines under the Harmonized System of Survey and Certification, 2011 (revoking A.997(25) and A.1020(26)) Not clearly stated but intended from 1 January 2012 FSI Sub-Committee Draft Assembly resolution on Revised Procedure for Port State Control List of the draft amendments to the mandatory instruments approved at MSC 89, which will be adopted at MSC 90 May 2012 Instrument Regulation/Title/Contents Adoption Entry into force* Related to SOLAS Regulation II-1/8-1 to introduce a mandatory requirement MSC 90 1 January SLF Sub- (Annex 2)

15 for either onboard stability computers or shore-based support for passenger ships which have to comply with the safe return to port requirements 2014 Committee Load Line 88 Protocol Paragraph 13.5 and annex 11 - Summer zone MSC 90 1 January 2014 SOLAS Regulation III/ to introduce a New sub-paragraph 4 regarding operational test of free-fall lifeboats MSC 90 1 January 2014 DSC Sub- Committee SOLAS Regulation XI-1/2 on Special measures to enhance maritime safety, the implementation of the ESP Code MSC 90 1 January 2014 DE Sub- Committee SOLAS Regulation VII/5-2 Prohibition of the blending of bulk liquid cargoes during the sea voyage MSC 90 1 January 2014 BLG Sub- Committee SOLAS Regulation II-2/19 - carriage of dangerous goods - clarification of applicability to ships constructed between 1984 and 2002 MSC 90 1 January 2014 Implementa tion of instruments and related matters (agenda item 19) (Annex 2)