Key IMO Safety Developments

The IMO is making significant progress towards modernising global maritime safety regulations, with new regulations that seek to enhance standards in order to accommodate new technologies and fuels, while making the maritime industry more adaptable and receptive to innovation.

The complexity of maritime safety is evident from the wide variety of topics currently on the agenda of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) – some of which are highlighted below.

Propulsion and steering – from prescriptive requirements to a goal-based format

Current regulations around propulsion and steering are part of the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) treaty, which was drafted when most vessels were powered by conventional engines and manoeuvred by rudders. With so many other systems now available and in widespread use, work is underway to translate these existing requirements into a goal-based format that is suitable for all types of propulsion and steering – and which, we can presume, will also account for the wide variety of alternative fuels being introduced.

In its current form, SOLAS Chapter II-1 addresses traditional steering gear arrangements with a propulsion system and a rudder. Modern combined steering and propulsion systems (e.g. azimuth thrusters, waterjets) are, however, not addressed in the current regulatory framework, which is therefore seen as an obstacle to innovation.

Published by DNV.

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