IMO MSC to adopt gas-fuelled ship code

The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) is expected to adopt a new mandatory code for gas-fuelled ships.

The MSC is expected to adopt the draft International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code), together with draft amendments to make the Code mandatory under SOLAS.

The use of gas as fuel, particularly LNG, has increased in recent years. However, gas as fuel poses its own set of safety challenges, which need to be properly managed. The IGF Code aims to minimise the risk to the ship, its crew and the environment.

The IGF Code will provide mandatory provisions for the arrangement, installation, control and monitoring of machinery, equipment and systems using low-flashpoint fuels, focusing initially on LNG.

The Code addresses all areas that need special consideration for the usage of low-flashpoint fuels, taking a goal-based approach, with goals and functional requirements specified for each section forming the basis for the design, construction and operation of ships using this type of fuel.

The MSC will also be invited to adopt related amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), and STCW Code, to include new mandatory minimum requirements for the training and qualifications of masters, officers, ratings and other personnel on ships subject to the IGF Code.

Adapted from press release by Katie Woodward

Read the article online at: https://www.lngindustry.com/small-scale-lng/15062015/imo-to-adopt-gas-vessel-code-869/