The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is working with partners to provide assistance to the Government of Yemen following recent sinking of the vessel Rubymar in the Red Sea area.
Speaking at the opening of the tenth session of the IMO's Sub-Committee on Ship Systems and Equipment (SSE 10) today at IMO Headquarters in London, the Secretary-General, Mr. Arsenio Dominguez said:
"In view of the situation in the Red Sea, I want to urge for the immediate release of the Galaxy Leader and its crew. The first impact of this crisis, before it has an impact on trade, falls on seafarers. It is the responsibility of this Organization and its Member States to protect all seafarers. I reiterate my firm belief that the exercise of navigational rights and freedom by merchant vessels must be respected. I join the calls for caution and restraint to avoid further escalation of the situation. The recent sinking of the vessel Rubymar represents an additional risk for the environment and maritime security. We are in contact with the Government of Yemen and other UN organizations to provide necessary assistance. IMO will continue to contribute to enhancing the safety of seafarers and transit of vessels of all States through the Red Sea and will closely monitor the situation, in collaboration with Member States and partners from the industry."
Fire safety and life-saving appliances
This week, the IMO Sub-Committee on Ship Systems and Equipment will discuss a wide range of technical issues, with a focus on life-saving equipment and appliances, as well as fire detection and extinguishing systems. This includes fire safety on container ships and ships that carry electric vehicles.
Key agenda items include:
-Evaluation of adequacy of fire safety provisions of vehicle, special category and ro-ro spaces in relation to fire risk of ships carrying new energy vehicles;
-Development of amendments to SOLAS chapter II-2 (Fire protection/detection/extinction) and the FSS Code (requirements for fire safety systems) concerning detection and control of fires on containerships;
-Revision of SOLAS chapter III and the LSA Code on life-saving appliances;
-Comprehensive review of the requirements for maintenance, examination and testing of life boats and rescue boats and their launching appliances.
