Current UK laws on the carriage of cargoes and dangerous goods are being revised and updated by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), to make sure they continue enforcing safety at sea in line with international safety standards.

The first proposed set of regulations is the Merchant Shipping (Carriage of Cargoes) Regulations 2024. This will revoke and replace the current Merchant Shipping (Carriage of Cargoes) Regulations 1999.

This new legislation largely updates and restates existing law, but ensures it is up-to-date and reflective of international law too. This includes the implementation of the International Maritime Solid Bulk Cargoes (IMSBC) Code – ensuring the safe stowage and shipment of solid bulk cargoes – and a prohibition on the at-sea blending of liquid chemicals.

Photo by william William

The proposed Merchant Shipping (Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Harmful Substances) Regulations 2024 deals with substances like marine pollutants and irradiated nuclear fuel. This 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. This code ensures the safe transport of liquified gases and similar substances thanks to design and construction guidelines.

Further information

Both consultations will end on 19 January, 2024.

To take part in the Merchant Shipping (Carriage of Dangerous Goods and Harmful Substances) Regulations 2024 consultation click here.

To take part in the Merchant Shipping (Carriage of Cargoes) Regulations 2024 click here.