Updates to four key IMO Assembly resolutions on implementation of IMO instruments were finalized by the Sub-Committee on Implementation of IMO Instruments at its 9th session (III 9, 31 July to 4 August). The resolutions are the draft Survey Guidelines under the Harmonized System of Survey and Certification, 2023; the draft 2023 Non-exhaustive list of obligations under instruments relevant to the IMO instruments implementation Code (III Code); the draft Procedures for port State control (PSC), 2023; and the draft 2023 Guidelines on the implementation of the ISM Code by Administrations. These will be forwarded for adoption by the IMO Assembly at its 33rd session, 27 November to 6 December 2023.   

The Sub-Committee also finalized the draft text of the III Code Implementation Guidance which aims to assist Member States in the implementation of the III Code, the standard of audits conducted under the IMO Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS). The draft Guidance will be submitted to the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) and the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) for approval for issuing under an MSC-MEPC circular.   

The III Sub-Committee, which reports to the MSC and MEPC, works to ensure effective and consistent global implementation and enforcement of IMO instruments concerning maritime safety and security and the protection of the marine environment.  

Amongst other matters considered at III 9 were proposals for a holistic and comprehensive review of – and amendments to – the Casualty Investigation Code, and the development of draft guidance to assist competent authorities in the implementation of the Cape Town Agreement.  

Read a full summary of III 9 here.