GovWire

The UK maritime offshore energy sector is currently expanding. This growth has been fuelled by the UK Governments ambitions to increase energy production from renewable sources to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

A new chapter has been added tothe International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), which includes the International Code of Safety for Ships Carrying Industrial Personnel (IP Code).

The IP Code sets enhanced safety standards to reflect the larger numbers of people on board compared with ordinary cargo ships and recognises a new category of people - industrial personnel who are not passengers or part of the crew.

The IP Code also sets out standards including medical fitness, personal survival, safety training and ship familiarisation, which industrial personnel must comply with.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency has today launched a consultation on these requirements, which are planned to be put into UK law by the Merchant Shipping (Safety Measures for Ships Carrying Industrial Personnel and Special Personnel) Regulations 2025.

The MCA will also be taking the opportunity in these regulations to include requirements for the carriage of special personnel. Standards for the carriage of special personnel are set out in the International Maritime Organizations Special Purpose Ships Code. Taken with the IP Code, the SPS Code will further enhance safety standards for those working in the offshore sector.

MCA Director of UK Technical Maritime Services Fraser Heasley said:

The offshore sector has a fundamental place in how the world operates today and is playing a key role in our transition to clean energy. At the MCA we truly value the service and dedication of these industrial and special personnel, and their safety is a priority for us.

Implementation of the new SOLAS chapter, in particular the IP Code, will mean significant safety improvements for those working in the offshore sector.

The code is recognised internationally so these standards apply across the whole offshore sector, providing a global, level playing field. Please make sure your feedback is heard by taking part in our consultation.

The consultation on the Merchant Shipping (Safety Measures for Ships Carrying Industrial Personnel and Special Personnel) Regulations 2025 will run from 9 December until 17 February 2025.

For more information and to take part in the consultation visit Consultation on the Merchant Shipping (safety measures for ships carrying industrial personnel and special personnel) regulations 2025.