Maritime News

The IMO has recently published circular MSC.1/Circ.1222/Rev.1*. This updates its requirements for the annual performance tests of voyage date recorders (VDRs) and simplified voyage data recorders (S-VDRs), as required by SOLAS Regulation V/18.8. The revised circular also clarifies the requirements for the examination of VDR float-free capsules approved in accordance with IMO Resolution MSC.333(90).

Amendments to both MARPOL Annex II and the IBC Code adopted earlier this year will enter into force on 1 January 2021.

To close an existing gap between how the IBC Code products have been assessed before and after 2004, the IMO decided to reassess all existing products in the IBC Code using the same criteria. This work has now been finalized and adopted as amendments to chapters 17, 18 and 21 of the IBC Code.

This safety bulletin highlights the importance of verifying the level of awareness and familiarity vessel personnel have with key learnings, procedures and regulations affected by this incident. This safety bulletin is based on facts, contributory factors and learnings identified in the official investigation report of the collision between the Sanchi and the CF Crystal. It is also based on an analysis by OCIMF members of information available from the official reference documents. This safety bulletin does not in anyway seek to apportion blame or liability for the incident.