The table of characteristics for each schedule has been amended and now includes ‘physical properties’ and ‘hazard classification’.

The physical properties of a cargo are recommendatory whereas the hazard classification information is mandatory and must be included in any cargo declaration.

The 7th session of IMO’s Sub-Committee on Ship Design and Construction (SDC) was held in London from 3 to 7 February 2020. SDC 7 finalized the interim guidelines on the second-generation intact stability criteria, clarified the requirements to watertight integrity on passenger ships and cargo ships, developed mandatory provisions for OSVs and other cargo ships carrying more than 12 industrial personnel, and finalized safety guidelines for fishing vessels and pleasure yachts operating in polar waters.

Amendments to the IBC Code (MSC460(101) / MEPC318(74)), BCH Code (MSC463(101) / MEPC319(74)) and MARPOL 73/78 Annex II (MEPC315(74)) will enter into force on 1 January 2021, and all ships carrying dangerous chemicals and/or noxious liquid substances in bulk need to satisfy the revised requirements prior to the date of entry into force.

Major revisions of MARPOL 73/78 Annex II
- Prewash requirements for persistent floating products
- Revision of the standard format of P&A Manual

Major revisions of IBC Code, BCH Code
- Revision of carriage requirements (Chapter 17 & 18)
- Operational requirements for persistent floating products (Chapter 16)
- Special requirements of Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) detection equipment (Chapter 15)

Entry into force of IMO Resolution MSC.402(96) on the 1st January 2020

The following amendments to SOLAS Chapter III enter into force on the 1st January 2020, through IMO Resolution MSC.404(96):

Maintenance, thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair of lifeboats and rescue boats, launching appliances and release gear shall be carried out in accordance with IMO Resolution MSC.402(96).

A set of important amendments to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and various codes mandatory under the Convention enter into force on 1 January 2020.

They include:

- Addressing lifeboat maintenance - preventing accidents with lifeboats
- Subdivision and damage stability
- Expanding maritime satellite communications equipment providers