As the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) informs, the new Marine Order 55 (Vessels carrying industrial personnel) 2024 will commence on 1 July 2024.
Marine Order 55 (MO55) contains mandatory requirements to ensure safe carriage of more than 12 industrial personnel (IP) on cargo vessels and high-speed cargo crafts in Australian waters.
Issued under the Navigation Act 2012, MO55 gives effect to the new SOLAS chapter XV and the associated International Code of Safety for Ships Carrying Industrial Personnel (the IP Code).
It addresses aspects of safety including stability, machinery and electrical installations, fire safety, life-saving appliances and arrangements, carriage of dangerous goods, training of industrial personnel and their transfer arrangements.
According to AMSA, between 19 February and 14 April 2024, they consulted on the proposed new Marine Order 55.