Implementation of IMO Instruments

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) informed that the Sub-Committee on Implementation of IMO Instruments (III) brings together flag, port and coastal States, together with observer delegations, to consider implementation issues.

At its sixth session (1-5 July), the Sub-Committee is expected to finalize updates to key instruments which assist in implementation, said the UN body.

The key instruments include the updated Survey Guidelines under the Harmonized System of Survey and Certification, the Non-exhaustive list of obligations under instruments relevant to the IMO instruments implementation Code (III Code), and Procedures for port State control, for adoption by the IMO Assembly at its thirty-first session in November 2019.

A further draft resolution on Guidance on communication of information by Member States will also be finalized.

The III Code is a key instrument under the under the IMO Member State Audit Scheme. Following completion of the analysis of the first consolidated audit summary report at the last session, the Sub-Committee is expected to consider a proposal for a new output on the development of additional guidance in relation to the audit scheme.

How to harmonize port State control (PSC) activities and procedures worldwide is an ongoing issue under consideration by the Sub-Committee, which will receive the report of a correspondence group. Preparations will be made for the holding of a Workshop for PSC MoU/Agreement Secretaries and Database Managers (scheduled to take place in 2020). At present there are nine regional PSC regimes.

Particular attention will be paid to the forthcoming "IMO 2020" sulphur requirement, following the adoption of specific PSC guidance by the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 74). The Sub-Committee will also consider a proposal for a new output to develop a training manual for new entrants as flag State surveyors/port State inspectors.

Another key agenda item is the review and analysis of maritime casualties. The Sub-Committee will consider the analysis and review of 27 marine safety investigation reports, with a view to making recommendations for lessons learned and for any further regulatory work which may be needed. The Sub-Committee will also consider the need for a robust strategy on the wider collection and utilization of casualty data.