For eight years, the MCA’s autonomy team has represented the UK’s interests in working groups dedicated to the development of the first non-mandatory International Code of Safety for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS Code).

The UK delegation, consisting of MCA and Department for Transport leads, plus industry experts, has been instrumental during discussions at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to develop the MASS Code.

Over 100 international partners, including administrations and industry and academia stakeholders, have negotiated and cooperated, culminating in the IMO Maritime Safety Committee’s 111th session on May 13–22 adopting the non-mandatory MASS Code.

The Code provides the first international regulatory framework for remotely operated and autonomous cargo ships covered under SOLAS Chapter I. It will be published by the IMO on July 1.

Leanne Page, MCA Assistant Director – Future Technical Standards, said: “The new code is game-changing progress for the MASS sector, delivered by maritime nations working together on safe and pragmatic standards and driven forward by the IMO.

“We’re very proud to have played a leading role in reaching this major milestone.

“The maritime industry is inherently global, so progress towards a harmonized regulatory framework is vital to support consistency, fairness and—most importantly—safe operations internationally.

“The MCA is now appealing for responses and contributions from across the maritime sector in the UK. With your help, we can ensure MASS standards support industry and protect safety for everyone on the water.”

The next step of international negotiations is the building of a framework for an experience-building phase, which will inform the eventual development of the mandatory MASS Code.

The MCA and the Department for Transport will continue to consult with the sector, including at the next Autonomy Industry Meeting on June 30, to provide further information and guidance on the new non-mandatory MASS Code.