Have your say on updated shipping regulations
It's
time to have your say on changes to important shipping regulations.
Current
UK laws on the carriage of cargoes and dangerous goods are being revised and
updated by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, to make sure they continue
enforcing safety at sea in line with international safety
standards.
The first proposed set of regulations is the Merchant
Shipping (Carriage of Cargoes) Regulations 2024. This will revoke and
replace the current Merchant Shipping (Carriage of Cargoes) Regulations 1999.
This
new legislation largely updates and restates existing law, but ensures it is
up-to-date and reflective of international law too. This includes the
implementation of the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code –
ensuring the safe stowage and shipment of solid
bulk cargoes - and a prohibition on the at-sea blending of liquid
chemicals.
The proposed Merchant Shipping
(Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Harmful Substances) Regulations 2024 deals with substances like marine pollutants and irradiated
nuclear fuel. This will revoke the Merchant Shipping (Dangerous Goods
and Marine Pollutants) Regulations 1997, and, along with six other dangerous
goods related Statutory Instruments, consolidate and restate the
requirements.
The
International Code for the Construction and Equipment
of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code) – already mandatory in the
UK - will also be included in the updated regulations. This code ensures
the safe transport of liquified gases and similar substances thanks to design
and construction guidelines.
The
latest regulations have now gone to consultation for six weeks, so make
sure your voice is heard.
Virginia McVea, Maritime and Coastguard Agency Chief Executive,
said:
“We are committed to maritime safety and keep legislation under
reviews to ensure that the UK industry continues to be at the forefront of
safety.
“When it comes to cargo and dangerous goods we are committed to
reflecting international standards. Updating these regulations will make this
more accessible for all and strengthen our ability to ensure safer
shipping.
“I encourage you to share your thoughts by taking part in the
consultation.”
Both consultations will end on 19 January, 2024 (extended to 26 January 2024).
To take part in the Merchant Shipping (Carriage of Dangerous Goods
and Harmful Substances) Regulations 2024 consultation click here.
To take part in the Merchant Shipping (Carriage of Cargoes) Regulations 2024 click here.
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