Archives
Freight News, Sea
Maritime and Coastguard Agency consults on DG rules
[ December 11, 2023 // Chris Lewis ]The Maritime and Coastguard Agency launched a six-week consultation on the laws on the carriage of cargoes and dangerous goods on 8 December.
The current UK laws are being revised and updated by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency in line with international safety standards. Both consultations will end on 19 January 2024.
The first proposed set of regulations is the Merchant Shipping (Carriage of Cargoes) Regulations 2024 which will replace the current Merchant Shipping (Carriage of Cargoes) Regulations 1999. This includes the implementation of the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code –and a prohibition on the at-sea blending of liquid chemicals.
The proposed Merchant Shipping (Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Harmful Substances) Regulations 2024 deals with substances like marine pollutants and irradiated nuclear fuel. Its will revoke the Merchant Shipping (Dangerous Goods and Marine Pollutants) Regulations 1997, and, along with six other dangerous goods related Statutory Instruments, consolidate and restate the requirements.
The International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk (IGC Code) – already mandatory in the UK – will also be included in the updated regulations.
Maritime and Coastguard Agency chief executive, Virginia McVea, said: “Updating these regulations will make this more accessible for all and strengthen our ability to ensure safer shipping.”
Tags: Maritime and Coastguard Agency