February 2026 Maritime Review: Key Maritime Updates and Regulatory Shifts
In our February 2026 issue, we explore a wide spectrum of critical maritime developments, from the implementation of mandatory international reporting rules for cargo loss to the evolving standards of vessel inspections under the revised RightShip RiSQ 3.2. We take a closer look at the health and safety challenges posed by the transition to alternative fuels, the financial impacts of rising P&I insurance costs, and vital lessons learned from recent operational incidents. This edition also highlights key environmental milestones in global treaty ratifications and our ongoing commitment to seafarer excellence through our latest training projects.
Regulatory Milestones and Environmental Progress
Mandatory Container Loss Reporting:
Effective January 1, 2026, ships are required to report all containers lost at sea under new amendments to SOLAS and MARPOL. Shipmasters must promptly share incident details with nearby vessels, the nearest coastal state, and the flag state, which then reports to the IMO.
Environmental Treaty Achievement:
Both the Ballast Water Management (BWM) and Anti-Fouling Systems (AFS) Conventions have reached 100 ratifications.These treaties now apply to over 93% and 95% of world merchant shipping by tonnage, respectively.
Pacific Islands Cooperation:
Twelve Pacific Island nations recently gathered in Auckland to strengthen the implementation of Port State Control (PSC) policies and inspection capacity.
Inspection and Operations
RightShip RiSQ 3.2 Update: The revised RightShip Inspection Ship Questionnaire (RiSQ 3.2) applies to inspections from February 1st.
Singapore LNG Licenses: The MPA has opened applications for additional LNG bunkering licenses, which now include the supply of bio-methane and e-methane.
MMS: ALTERNATIVE FUELS POSE MEDICAL RISKS FOR SEAFARERS
As the industry shifts toward alternative marine fuels such as LNG, methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen to meet net-zero targets, Marine Medical Solutions (MMS) warns of emerging hazards for seafarers.
Rising P&I Costs
As the industry shifts toward alternative marine fuels such as LNG, methanol, ammonia, and hydrogen to meet net-zero targets, Marine Medical Solutions (MMS) warns of emerging hazards for seafarers.
Safety Lessons Learned:
Real-life case studies remind us that simple oversights can lead to significant risks:
Big Bags Cause Big Trouble:
Frequent requests to load "jumbo bags" (FIBCs) with steel or breakbulk cargo have led to severe spillage and safety risks. Stowing different bagged chemicals in the same hold can lead to contamination, chemical reactions, and onboard fires.
SIMOPS Slipups:
A recent incident involving a tanker in port demonstrated the danger of holding lifeboat drills concurrently with cargo operations. The lifeboat propeller became entangled in the surrounding oil boom chain because simultaneous operations (SIMOPS) procedures and risk assessments were not followed.
Expand Your Knowledge with New Maritime Trainer Courses
Stay compliant and ready for the future by exploring our latest specialized courses, designed to enhance crew competency in critical areas
REMS008 - Creative Thinking: A scenario-based program helping seafarers use creative thinking for safer, more flexible decision-making at sea.
1189 - PADAMS:Training to recognize and prevent alcohol and drug abuse to protect safety, performance, and compliance on board.
1187 - EV Transport:Practical knowledge for the safe carriage of electric vehicles on car carriers, focusing on lithium-ion battery fire characteristics.
