Plugging a ship into shore-side power and turning off onboard generators is one solution to reduce air pollution from ships, as well as limit local noise. For this reason, IMO will examine safety aspects of on shore power supply to ships, also known as “cold ironing”, “alternative maritime power” and “shore-side electricity”.
Namely, the Sub-Committee on Ship Systems and Equipment (SSE), will meet from 12 to 16 of March, to develop guidelines on the safe operation of cold ironing and to consider developing any necessary draft amendments to the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) convention.
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Furthermore, it is expected to finalize draft new requirements for ventilation of totally enclosed lifeboats. This aims to ensure that a habitable environment is maintained in such survival craft. The meeting will also consider specific conditions and performance criteria for life-saving appliances and arrangements intended for use in polar waters, following the entry into force of IMO’s Polar Code.
Fire protection issues are also on the agenda, and include the ongoing review of current SOLAS regulations and associated codes to reduce the incidence and consequences of fires on new and existing ro-ro passenger ships, specifically in the ro-ro spaces and special category spaces.
Other agenda matters include mandatory requirements for onboard lifting appliances and anchor handling winches. The Sub-Committee will identify where draft requirements should be included in the SOLAS treaty and develop draft related guidelines.
