The 110th session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC 110) wrapped up last week, marking a significant step forward in the maritime industry’s approach to autonomous ships and other critical safety measures. The session, held from June 18 to 27, saw substantial progress on the development of a non-mandatory code of safety for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), a move that could reshape the future of maritime operations.
The MASS Code, as it’s known, addresses the growing need for a regulatory framework to ensure the safe, secure, and environmentally sound operation of autonomous and remote-controlled vessels. DNV, a leading classification society, reported that MSC 110 finalized 18 chapters of the MASS Code, leaving mainly the chapter on the human element to be finalized. This is no small feat, given the complexity and novelty of the subject matter.
One of the key decisions made was that unmanned MASS should be capable of assisting persons in distress. This means that vessels will be required to have a plan for conducting search and rescue (SAR) operations, even without crew on board. This is a significant development, as it challenges the traditional notion of seafarers being physically present to perform such critical tasks.
The non-mandatory MASS Code is expected to be adopted at MSC 111 in May 2026, followed by an experience-building phase. A mandatory code is expected to enter into force on January 1, 2032, at the earliest. This timeline gives the industry ample time to adapt and prepare for the new regulations, but it also underscores the urgency for stakeholders to start considering the implications of these changes.
As DNV’s report highlights, MSC 110 also made progress on other fronts. The committee adopted amendments to SOLAS Chapter V and the associated new Performance Standards to improve pilot transfer safety. It approved draft amendments to the 2011 ESP Code to include remote inspection techniques (RITs) for close-up surveys, a move that could streamline survey processes and reduce downtime.
Other notable decisions include the approval of a 2025 Code on Alerts and Indicators, a revision of Resolution A.1050(27) on entering enclosed spaces aboard ships, and guidelines to support the introduction of emergency towing requirements on ships other than tankers. The committee also approved generic interim guidelines on training for seafarers on ships using alternative fuels and new technologies, a critical step as the industry moves towards decarbonization.
Perhaps most significantly, the committee agreed on draft amendments to SOLAS Chapter II-1 to clarify the IGF Code application to all gaseous fuels, regardless of flashpoint. This is a major step forward in addressing the regulatory barriers that may prevent the use of alternative fuels and new technologies. As the industry grapples with the challenges of decarbonization, such measures are crucial in paving the way for a more sustainable future.
The decisions made at MSC 110 are not just about keeping up with technological advancements; they’re about setting the stage for the future of maritime safety. The progress on the MASS Code, in particular, signals a shift towards a more automated, data-driven industry. But it also raises important questions about the role of seafarers in this new landscape. As the industry moves towards autonomy, how will the human element be integrated and valued?
Moreover, the focus on alternative fuels and new technologies underscores the industry’s commitment to decarbonization. But it also highlights the need for a regulatory framework that can keep pace with these changes. The industry must strike a balance between fostering innovation and ensuring safety.
In the coming years, the maritime industry will be watching closely as these developments unfold. The decisions made at MSC 110 are just the beginning of a long journey towards a safer, more sustainable, and more autonomous maritime future. The ball is now in the industry’s court to turn these decisions into action.