The IMO Sub-committee on Implementation of IMO Instruments (III) 10th session was held from 22 to 26 July 2024, where various issues were discussed.
The Sub-committee on the Implementation of IMO Instruments (III) focuses on the effective and consistent global implementation and enforcement of IMO instruments related to maritime safety, security, and environmental protection. Below is a brief overview of some of the significant outcomes from III 10:
Guidance on assessments and applications of remote surveys, ISM Code audits and ISPS Code verifications
III 10 made progress on Phase 2 of developing the draft Guidance on assessments and applications of remote surveys, ISM Code audits, and ISPS Code verifications, and the associated draft MSC-MEPC circular. III agreed that interim, initial, renewal, and additional DOC (Document of Compliance) ISM audits should be in person, except for interim DoC audits adding a new ship type, where remote methods may be considered. Remote ISPS verifications should be limited to extraordinary circumstances due to the sensitive nature of the information.
An intersessional correspondence group has been tasked to finalize the draft guidance by the next III session for expected adoption at Assembly 34 (December 2025).
Draft amendments to the Survey Guidelines under the Harmonized System of Survey and Certification
III 10 continued working on the draft amendments to the Survey Guidelines under the Harmonized System of Survey and Certification (HSSC) 2023, Resolution A.1186(33). The draft revision will incorporate relevant survey requirements for mandatory instruments that will enter into force up to and including 31 December 2025, as well as amendments to SOLAS with the four-year cycle of entry into force.
The revised guidelines are expected to be finalized at III 11 for adoption at Assembly 34 (December 2025), with an anticipated entry into force on 1 January 2026.
Draft amendments to the “Procedures for Port State Control 2023”
III 10 continued discussions on proposed draft amendments to the “Procedures for Port State Control 2023” (Resolution A.1185(33)). The agreed draft amendments include developing PSC Guidelines on control and compliance measures to enhance maritime security, with the aim of including it as a new appendix to the Procedures of PSC, 2023.
Additionally, draft amendments to appendices 2, 8, 9, 11, and 18 of the Procedures of PSC, 2023 were agreed upon, to have a single source for detainable deficiencies to ensure consistent guidance on ship detentions.
