At the 108th session of the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC108) held in May 2024, amendments to the International Code of Safety for Ships using Gases or Other Low-Flashpoint Fuels (IGF Code) (Resolution MSC. 551 (108)) relating to the requirements for portable fire extinguishers were adopted. The additional requirements are as follows:

1. Application
All ships subject to the IGF Code

2. Additional new requirements
One portable dry chemical powder fire extinguisher of at least 5 kg capacity is to be provided in the fuel preparation room not later than the first periodical survey on or after 1 January 2026 (Paragraph 11.6.2, IGF Code).
(If the arrangement of fire extinguishers on the ship is changed, the Fire Control Plan is to be changed and confirmed by a responsible officer of ships.)

Along with the addition of fire extinguisher, please confirm the following requirement of spare charges specified in SOLAS II-2 / Reg.10.3.3.1.
[SOLAS II-2 / Reg.10.3.3.1]
Spare charges shall be provided for 100% of the first 10 extinguishers and 50% of the remaining fire extinguishers capable of being recharged on board. Not more than 60 total spare charges are required.

3. Timing of Confirmation Survey
In the first periodical survey on or after 1 January 2026, ClassNK attending surveyor will confirm the arrangement described above.

(To be continued)