Background
The International Code of Safety for Ship Using Gases or Other Low-flashpoint Fuels (the IGF code) is implemented in the Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS) Reg. II-1/57. Due to the rapid development of new fuel technology, the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) revises the IGF Code regularly, taking into account experience and technical development.
On 15 June 2017, by resolution MSC.422(98), the MSC adopted amendments to the IGF Code paragraph 11.3.2. The amendments involve the removal of the following requirements in paragraph 11.3.2: «and any boundaries above that, including navigation bridge windows, shall have A-0 class divisions». The reason for this amendment is that it has proved difficult to meet the technical requirement of an integrity of A-0 above the main deck including wheelhouse windows.
These amendments enter into force internationally on 1 January 2020.
The IGF Code has been implemented into Norwegian legislation by special reference in the Regulations on ships using fuel with a flashpoint of less than 60°C section 2 second paragraph. There is a need to change the provision to make it in compliance with the revised international legislation. Smaller editorial changes connected to references to appendixes are also needed.
Consultation
The proposed amendments were circulated for review from 10 July to 1 November 2019. The NMA received answers from 8 consultative bodies. None of the consultative bodies had any comments to the proposed amendments to the Regulations.
Administrative and financial implications
The regulatory amendments include an update of the legislation for ships using fuel with a flashpoint of less than 60°C in line with the amendments to the International IGF Code. It is assumed that those who deal with the IGF Code on a daily basis are familiar with any substantial amendments to the Code. The proposal is not expected to have any financial implications for the involved parties.
The NMA will adapt the enforcement of the legislation to the amendments of the Code. Beyond this, the proposal is not considered to have any significant administrative implications.
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