IMO’s MSC 109 Session Focuses on Maritime Safety Innovations and Cybersecurity Strategies

The Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) will convene for its 109th session at IMO Headquarters in London from December 2 to 6, 2024. The meeting, chaired by Mrs. Mayte Medina of the United States and supported by Vice-Chair Capt. Theofilos Mozas of Greece, will focus on matters concerning maritime safety and security under the IMO’s purview. This includes discussions on autonomous vessels, safety of alternative fuels and technologies, piracy, armed robbery against ships, cyber security, and e-navigation.

Key highlights of MSC 109 will involve amendments to the IGC and IGF Codes, the establishment of goal-based ship construction standards, the development of regulations for autonomous ships, and the creation of a safety framework to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from ships using new technologies and fuels. The committee will also address cyber risk management, maritime security enhancements, piracy updates, and other related topics such as revised guidelines for formal safety assessment and domestic ferry safety.

Furthermore, the meeting will cover a range of additional agenda items, including amendments to mandatory IGC and IGF Codes, development of regulations for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), cyber risk management strategies, and measures to combat piracy and armed robbery against ships. Reports from Sub-Committees, matters related to the International Safety Management Code, and other relevant maritime safety issues will also be discussed during the session.

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