On 18 November, Maritime UK launched Version 6 of the Industry Code of Practice for Maritime Autonomous Ship Systems (MASS).
Whilst not a legal text, the Code has been used by manufacturers, service providers, and others as part of their day-to-day work. Now, Version 6 adds updated guidance on a variety of topics including MoD Maritime Levels of Automation, MASS Shoreside Interface guidance and Remote Control Centre manning and operation.
Commenting on the new edition of the Code, Sarah Kenny, Chair of Maritime UK, said:
For the UK, autonomy is a key driver of future growth opportunities and fuses our expertise across the sector – professional services, cutting-edge innovation and high-quality manufacturing and design. Autonomy is at the heart of key national missions like decarbonisation and the National Shipbuilding Strategy
In the same wavelength, Baroness Charlotte Vere, Maritime Minister at the Department for Transport, added that “autonomous vessels are set to revolutionise the maritime sector, by cutting emissions, bolstering supply chains, and easing pressure on UK’s ports. With 75% of accidents at sea caused by human error, this technology will also help to dramatically boost safety.”
MASS development and operations continue to become an established part of the maritime scene. The Code of Practice provides the ideal focus to enable industry to develop ahead of the eventual international and national regulatory frameworks. Version 6 of the Code of Practice provides the platform for a variety of important updates with some new and revised guidance
James Fanshawe, the MASRWG Chair, concluded.
EXPLORE MORE at the mass’s code version 6
