Recap: IMO SSE 12

The 12th session of the Sub-Committee on Ship Systems and Equipment (SSE) took place in London from March 9 to March 13, 2026.

The 12th session of the Sub-Committee on Ship Systems and Equipment (SSE) took place in London from March 9 to March 13, 2026. During this session, SSE 12 advanced measures to enhance the detection and control of fires on container ships. Additionally, it established a direction for further work on fire safety for vehicle carriers transporting new-energy vehicles. It was also agreed to develop interim guidelines for the safety of ships utilising battery energy storage systems, supporting efforts to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships.

Below is a summary of the major highlights from the meeting:

• Draft amendments to SOLAS Regulation II-2/9 on the containment of fire, which will
  incorporate existing guidance and clarify requirements.
• Development of goal-based amendments to SOLAS Chapter III and the LSA Code.
• Progress on draft amendments to the 2010 FTP Code to accommodate new fire protection
  systems and materials, including test procedures for plastic pipes.
• Measures to reduce the fire risk of ships carrying new-energy vehicles.
• Work plan to consider the safety regulations for the following alternative fuels and new
  technologies:

– Methyl/ethyl alcohol fuels
– Fischer-Tropsch (FT) diesel
– Lithium-Ion Batteries
– Supercapacitor Energy Storage technology
– Swappable traction lithium-ion battery containers
– Advanced Waste Heat Recovery.

The following notes summarise the relevant topics and outcomes that were discussed. Please note that the presented information reflects the status at the time of Ship Systems and Equipment Sub-Committee 12, which may change as a result of ongoing developments. As SSE is a Sub-Committee, all decisions concerning rules, regulations and dates are subject to further review and approval by the Maritime Safety Committee (MSC). It is also uncertain at this time whether the mentioned amendments or new regulations will eventually be adopted in future versions of the Red Ensign Group Yacht Codes or other flag codes.