Landmark support for shipping innovation with publication of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) Code

Landmark support for shipping innovation with publication of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) Code
New instrument paves the way to strengthening regulatory confidence for UK industry.
A landmark international code for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) is being published today (1 July), paving the way for stronger, clearer global standards supporting technology, innovation and safety at sea.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has launched the non-mandatory MASS Code which provides the first international regulatory framework for remotely operated and autonomous cargo ships covered under SOLAS Chapter I.
It was drafted at the IMO with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) taking a leading role to uphold UK interests.
The UK will ultimately use the high-level principles to bring forward national legislation in close consultation with the maritime sector.
Leanne Page, MCA Assistant Director – Future Technical Standards, said:
Publishing the MASS Code is a major step towards delivering clearer, stronger, safer regulations that reduce risk and support innovative technology.
The MCA is very proud to have played a leading role in reaching this stage, upholding the UK’s interests with safety at the heart of negotiations. We look forward to working with industry to refine and develop the Code into the future.
The Code is in three parts, plus an appendix:
- Part 1: High-level purpose, principles and objectives.
- Part 2: Principles applicable to all cases with resulting provisions met through certification including surveys and certification, software, security, manning, training and watchkeeping.
- Part 3: Goals and functional requirements based on modes of operation and functionality including navigation, remote operations, fire management, cargoes, and search and rescue.
- Appendix: Forms for certificates and records for autonomous and remote operations.
Global research and feedback will contribute to the next stage of developing the MASS Code through a two-year Experience-Building Phase. The mandatory version of the MASS Code is scheduled to come into force by 2032.
The MASS Code will be published online soon. To access the MASS Code now, please create a Public User IMODOCS account to access Resolution MSC.595(111).
For questions about how the MASS Code applies to innovative technology in the UK, contact the UK Maritime Innovation Hub by completing the online form or by emailing innovation@mcga.gov.uk.
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