Marine Operations Note: 03/2024 - Amendments to the International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF code) and Voluntary Early Implementation of the Amendments to Paragraphs 4.2.2 and 8.4.1 to 8.4.3 of the IGF code
29 October 2024
Marine Operation Note 03/2024
29 October 2024
MARINE OPERATIONS NOTE: 03/2024
Subject: | Amendments to the International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or other Low-flashpoint Fuels (IGF code) and Voluntary Early Implementation of the Amendments to Paragraphs 4.2.2 and 8.4.1 to 8.4.3 of the IGF code | |
Ref: | ||
(b) MSC.1/Circ. 1677 | ||
(c) MSC.1/Circ.1565 | ||
(d) IGF Code | ||
Dear Shipowners/Operators/Recognized Organizations/Masters:
Purpose
The purpose of this Marine Operations Note is to inform Shipowners/Operators/Recognized Organizations/Masters of amendments to the IGF code and the requirements of the Liberian Administration for voluntary early implementation of certain paragraphs of the amendments to the IGF code in MSC Resolution 551(108). Background
At the 108th meeting of the Maritime safety Committee (MSC 108), the International Maritime Organization (IMO) adopted the amendments to IGF code by resolution MSC.551(108).
The amendments enter into force on 01 January 2026. There are provisions for voluntary early implementation of paragraphs 4.2.2 and 8.4.1 to 8.4.3 of the IGF Code.
Requirements
These amendments introduced alternative arrangements for the design of the bunkering manifold related to:
- Design of the bunkering manifold to withstand the external loads (8.4.1)
- Operational procedures to ensure dry disconnection is achieved (8.4.2), which requires special consideration informed by a bunkering arrangement risk assessment (as referenced in amended paragraph 4.2.2)
- Availability of emergency release coupler (ERC)/emergency release system (ERS) or equivalent to achieve dry disconnect during emergency (8.4.3)
The Administration will issue an equivalency certificate under SOLAS regulation l/5 to cover the interim period between the date of the voluntary early implementation and the entry into force date of amendments.
Shipowners, operators and recognized organizations are invited to voluntarily implement these amendments ahead of the mandatory entry into force date.
Questions regarding this guidance should be referred to RegsandStandards@liscr.com or telephone +1-703-790-3434.
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