The Government has confirmed a wide-ranging set of updates to UK maritime legislation, reflecting recent changes to international maritime law agreed through the International Maritime Organization (IMO). The new requirements will come into force on 1 January 2026, fulfilling a commitment made to Parliament.
The changes are made using existing ambulatory reference provisions in UK secondary legislation. This means that where UK law refers to international maritime conventions and codes, it automatically applies the most up-to-date international standards, ensuring the UK remains aligned with its global maritime obligations.
The amendments cover the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) and the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention. All amendments have been agreed internationally and are focused on enhancing safety, environmental protection and seafarer welfare.
Key changes include:
- Stronger safety requirements for lifting appliances, anchor handling winches and ship construction, including vessels using low-flashpoint fuels.
- New fire safety measures, including a ban on firefighting foams containing PFOS, enhanced fire detection systems and improved fire protection for roll-on/roll-off passenger ships.
- Improved standards for life-saving appliances, including more reliable lifejackets and enhanced lifeboat design, ventilation and inspection requirements.
- New navigation safety measures, including mandatory electronic inclinometers on certain new container ships and bulk carriers to reduce cargo loss.
- Updated cargo safety rules for grain, solid bulk cargoes and liquefied gas carriers, supporting both safety and decarbonisation.
- Clearer emissions, energy efficiency and carbon intensity planning and reporting requirements under MARPOL.
- Mandatory new training for seafarers on preventing and responding to violence and harassment, including sexual harassment and bullying.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has published detailed guidance to support industry understanding and compliance.
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