Maritime Alert - January 2026

1. Notice of Lost or Adrift Containers at Sea (SOLAS Chapter V, Regulations 31 and 32 – MSC.550(108))

What's new?

Reporting obligations areare now in place for any of the following situations:

· A container falls overboard, or

· Containers are detected floating or drifting underway.

Which vessels are covered?

· All SOLAS-regulated vessels involved in a container loss event or that sight containers adrift.

· If the vessel is unable to submit the report, the company assumes the obligation to communicate the information

Recommendations

· Review instrument MSC.550(108) for detailed procedures.

· Verify that the bridge crew knows what data must be reported and how the report should be submitted.

2. Fuel Oil Security and Fuel Delivery Notes (FDNs) (SOLAS II-2 – MSC.520(106))

What's new?

Before bunkering, the supplier must provide a certified declaration confirming that the fuel complies with the flash point requirements of SOLAS. This declaration must state the measured flash point value or, failing that, confirm that it is equal to or greater than 70°C.

Scope

This applies to all SOLAS-bound vessels using fuel oil, regardless of size, type of operation, or trade route.

Recommendations

· Review the content of MSC.520(106).

· Adjust internal bunkering procedures and ensure that the crew understands the new documentation requirement.

· Verify with bunker suppliers that their documentation (BDN/declaration) complies with the requirement.

3. Training Requirements on Violence and Harassment (STCW Code, Table A-VI/1-4 – MSC.560(108))

What's new?

Training to prevent and respond to bullying, harassment (including sexual harassment), and sexual assault is now incorporated as mandatory training within the Basic Training (PSSR).

Scope of Application

· All seafarers currently undertaking or completing the Basic Training (PSSR) in accordance with the STCW.

· Academies and training organizations that provide these courses.

· Shipowners and ship managers, who must ensure that the crew on board board has the required qualifications.

Recommendations

· Review instrument MSC.560(108).

· Verify that crew departments, recruitment agencies, and training centers have already incorporated the new requirements into their programs and processes.

4. Polar Code Requirements for Smaller/Non-SOLAS Vessels (SOLAS XIV / Polar Code – MSC.532(107) and MSC.538(107))

What's new?

The Polar Code's navigation and voyage planning requirements now extend to certain smaller, non-SOLAS vessels operating in polar waters.

Scope

· Fishery vessels of 24 m or more.

· Recreational yachts of 300 GT or more not engaged in commercial activity.

· Cargo vessels of 300 GT or more, but less than 500 GT.

Recommendations

· Review MSC.532(107) and MSC.538(107).

· Identify which vessels in the fleet are covered and update procedures (including the possibility of preparing a Polar Area Operations Manual).

· Coordinate with the Administration to confirm criteria and evidence of compliance.

5. Requirements for lifting equipment, loose gear, and anchor winches (SOLAS II-1 – MSC.532(107))

What's new?

· Mandatory requirements are incorporated regarding the design, testing, inspection, maintenance, documentation, and safe operation of lifting equipment, loose gear, and anchor winches.

· Control shifts from being based primarily on classification society guidelines to a formal regulatory regime.

Scope

· All lifting equipment, loose accessories, and anchor winches with a SWL ≥ 1,000 kg.

· The Flag Authority may decide to extend these requirements to equipment with a lower SWL.

Recommendations

· Review MSC.532(107).

· Confirm, according to Flag Authority guidance, the scope and schedule of inspections/surveys, and update internal procedures.

· Ensure that equipment complies; otherwise, remove it from service.