In its 10th session held in London (22-26 January 2024), the Sub-Committee on Ship Design and Construction (SDC 10) finalized the goals, functional requirements and expected performances for Parts C, D and E of SOLAS Chapter II-1, as part of the Revised Guidelines on alternative design and arrangements (MSC.1/Circ.1212/Rev.1), for approval by MSC 108. 

SDC 10 made progress on the following:

• The new Guidelines for emergency towing arrangements on new ships other than tankers; 
• The revision of the Interim Explanatory Notes for the assessment of passenger ship systems' capabilities after a fire or flooding casualty in MSC.1/Circ.1369; 
• An action plan to address barriers to the uptake of the Guidelines on reduction of underwater noise from shipping (MEPC.1/Circ.906); 
• Drafting amendment to regulation 25 of the 1988 Load Line Protocol regarding the requirement for setting of guard rails on the deck structure; 
• Drafting amendments to the Guidelines for construction, installation, maintenance and inspection/survey of means of embarkation and disembarkation (MSC.1/Circ.1331). 

SDC 10 also finalized one new Unified Interpretation (UI) and amendments to existing UIs, for approval by MSC 108.

Robban Assafina