Government officials and maritime experts from several Asian coastal states gathered in Singapore for the inaugural IMO workshop on ships’ routeing and reporting systems. The event aimed to enhance navigational safety and familiarize participants with IMO procedures, focusing on effective implementation amid rising maritime traffic in the region. Key discussions included evaluating existing measures and analyzing traffic patterns.
Seaspan Shipyards is revolutionizing its shipbuilding with a $1.5 million contract to Alberta’s Confined Space Robotics. This partnership will develop semiautonomous robotic systems for blast and paint operations, enhancing safety by minimizing worker exposure to hazardous materials. The initiative also aims to reduce environmental impact and boost productivity.
The Switch has unveiled a new Electronic Current Limiter (ECL) to enhance DC system stability in marine applications. This device allows direct battery connections, addressing fault challenges in large battery systems. By limiting fault currents and preserving DC-link voltage, the ECL ensures operational continuity and boosts vessel efficiency during abnormal conditions.
The International Maritime Organization’s Sub-Committee on Ship Design and Construction has drafted a workplan to develop safety regulations for vessels using innovative technologies and alternative fuels. This initiative, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, will be presented to the Maritime Safety Committee for approval in May 2026. Key milestones include updates to existing standards and the introduction of new guidelines.
The recent letter highlights the dangers posed by the “shadow fleet,” vessels evading international sanctions. These ships threaten maritime safety by ignoring regulations like SOLAS and MARPOL. The correspondence stresses that all vessels must comply with international laws, and calls for improved navigation systems and crew training to mitigate risks.
ABS and Siemens Energy have initiated a joint development project to investigate thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries via advanced modeling and simulation. This collaboration aims to enhance safety in the marine and offshore energy storage sectors by integrating ABS’s classification expertise with Siemens’ digital modeling innovations, ultimately improving design and operational reliability.
The Fiji Fishing Industry Association (FFIA) has introduced Social Policy Guidelines to promote sustainable practices in the longline tuna sector. These guidelines address occupational health and safety, prevent forced and child labor, and ensure fair employment. This initiative aims to enhance working conditions and uphold international labor standards, benefiting seafarers and the industry.
The Ministry of Transport in Doha has mandated a halt to all maritime navigation and leasing activities from December 16 to 19, 2025, to ensure public safety during Qatar National Day celebrations. This directive affects various vessels, emphasizing collective responsibility for a secure environment during the festivities.
Robotics and automation are increasingly replacing maritime crews in repetitive and hazardous tasks, crucial for vessel safety and efficiency. Advanced digital technologies enhance resource management and real-time decision-making. Improved satellite connectivity allows better communication and access to training, transforming working conditions and redefining maritime operations for enhanced safety and crew welfare.
Lloyd’s Register, EXMAR, and the Belgian FPS for Mobility and Transport have developed interim guidelines for the safe use of ammonia as fuel on gas carriers. This initiative, which began over two years ago, aims to facilitate the maritime industry’s transition to sustainable fuel alternatives, addressing safety concerns while promoting flexibility in vessel design.
A recent ATSB report revealed inadequate safety management during an incident involving the second engineer of the Spirit of Tasmania I. While performing routine maintenance, the engineer fell, sustaining a serious knee injury. The investigation highlighted a lack of defined access routes and insufficient risk assessments, prompting new safety measures by TT-Line.
The United Seamen’s Service honored Crowley mariners at the 2025 AOTOS Awards, celebrating their bravery and commitment to safety. The crew of the tanker Stena Immaculate received special recognition for heroic actions during a North Sea collision, while El Coquí earned accolades for rescuing stranded U.S. boaters in the Atlantic.
Saipem has introduced the LiSa Hyper Harness, an innovative safety solution designed to enhance worker protection on construction sites. Utilizing sensors and AI, it ensures safety belts are securely fastened during high-altitude tasks. By triggering audible alerts and communicating discrepancies to supervisors, it significantly improves response times and overall safety protocols.
ClassNK has granted Approval in Principle (AiP) for Kawasaki Heavy Industries’ “Safety Berthing/Unberthing Assistance System” and awarded an Innovation Endorsement for its Human Machine Interface. This enables the ‘a-SAFE’ notation for ClassNK-registered vessels, promoting advanced safety measures and supporting the integration of automated technologies in maritime operations.
InterManager is urging seafarers to participate in a global survey addressing fatalities in enclosed spaces, despite improved safety measures. In 2023, 14 incidents resulted in 34 deaths, primarily in bulk carriers. The survey seeks insights from those affected to enhance training and hazard awareness, aiming to reduce these tragic occurrences.
