The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has approved new amendments regarding fire safety for ro-ro passenger ships, which will bring significant changes for both new vessels and the existing fleet.
The measures, outlined in resolutions MSC.550(108) and MSC.555(108), modify the SOLAS Convention —specifically Regulation II-2/20— and the International Code for Fire Safety Systems (FSS Code), with the aim of enhancing protection in areas intended for the transport of vehicles.
These new requirements will be mandatory for newly constructed vessels starting January 1, 2026, and include improvements in fire detection and alarm systems, video surveillance, structural protection, and fixed water extinguishing systems, especially on exposed decks intended for vehicle transport.
In the case of existing ro-ro passenger ships built before that date, shipowners must adapt to the new requirements before their first inspection after January 1, 2028. Key obligations include the installation of additional heat detectors —or their integration with current smoke detectors—, the implementation of continuous video surveillance systems on decks and vehicle spaces, and the incorporation of fixed water extinguishing systems on external decks.
Additionally, the amendments to the FSS Code introduce new technical standards for extinguishing, detection, and fire signaling systems, applicable to ships whose keels are laid after 2026.
Lloyd’s Register has recommended that shipowners and managers promptly review the new requirements and plan the necessary adaptations, including the submission of technical projects for approval, in order to ensure compliance within the established deadlines.