IMO MSC 110 // 18 - 27 June 2025
As part of its work to develop a GHG safety regulatory framework, the MSC tasked the SDC Sub-Committee with revising the Code of Safety for Nuclear Merchant Ships (Nuclear Code), to reflect advancements in nuclear technology.
The SDC Sub-Committee will also review and develop amendments to SOLAS chapter VIII to address safety aspects of nuclear-powered ships.
Additionally, regulating the safety of non-self-propelled Floating Nuclear Power Units (FNPPs) was also discussed and the Committee invited for a relevant new output proposal, noting the potential relevance of FNPPs to supply clean energy to remote areas and critical infrastructure.
Resolution A.491(XII) // 19 Nov 1981: Code of Safety for Nuclear Merchant Ships.
More broadly known as the "Nuclear Code", the Resolution intends to provide a technical and regulatory reference for nuclear merchant ships. It supplements other applicable international conventions, codes and recommendations promulgated by the Organization and defines specific safety problems which shouId be addressed. Appropriate criteria are included to protect people and the environment from radiological hazard throughout all phases of the ship's life cycle: design, construction, commissioning, operation and decommissioning.
IMO, recognizing the special features of nuclear energy and the mobility of a nuclear ship, acknowledges that international consensus is required on the provision of technical and administrative constraints during the vessel's life cycle.
See below supporting tools for an introduction to the Nuclear Code.
In addition a visual tool for instant reference is available (here).
SOLAS Chapter VIII
SOLAS Chapter VIII is a brief effort to regulate the safe operation of Nuclear ships. "Nuclear" specific Certificates either for Cargo or Passenger ships are specified, while Administrations are instructed to control various aspects, for example the reactor design, construction and installation of the reactor.
International Code for the Safe Carriage of Packaged Irradiated Nuclear Fuel, Plutonium and High Level Radioactive Wastes on board Ships
(INF Code)
International Maritime Organization (IMO) has introduced the INF Code, complementing the IAEA Regulation for the Safe Transport of Radioactive Material. The Code introduced recommendations for the design of ships transporting radioactive material and addressed such issues as stability after damage, fire protection, and structural resistance. Since coming into force in 2001, the Code has been amended by resolutions MSC.118(74), MSC.135(76), MSC.178(79) and MSC.241(83)
Although not connected to IMO framework, in 1962 the Brussels Convention on the Liability of Operators of Nuclear Ships was drafted.
The Convention aimed to establish uniform international rules for the liability of nuclear ship operators for nuclear damage. It intended to set a liability cap (1,500 million gold francs) regarding damage to people, property, and the environment.and cover nuclear incidents involving fuel, products, or waste. It provided that the operator of a nuclear ship was absolutely liable for nuclear damage, meaning victims would not need to prove fault.
However, the convention never entered into force, mainly because of lack of commercial nuclear fleets, the reluctance of major naval powers to subject military ships to its provisions, and the outdated liability limits.
A potential future effort to revive the Convention will most likely come through the works of the IMO.
The Convention aimed to establish uniform international rules for the liability of nuclear ship operators for nuclear damage. It intended to set a liability cap (1,500 million gold francs) regarding damage to people, property, and the environment.and cover nuclear incidents involving fuel, products, or waste. It provided that the operator of a nuclear ship was absolutely liable for nuclear damage, meaning victims would not need to prove fault.
However, the convention never entered into force, mainly because of lack of commercial nuclear fleets, the reluctance of major naval powers to subject military ships to its provisions, and the outdated liability limits.
A potential future effort to revive the Convention will most likely come through the works of the IMO.
ATOMIC MARITIME