(www.MaritimeCyprus.com) The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) continues to play a pivotal role in harmonizing the interpretation of international maritime regulations. By issuing Unified Interpretations (UIs), IACS ensures that the broad language used in the IMO’s SOLAS conventions is applied consistently by all member societies and flag states, eliminating "gray areas" that could lead to safety lapses or compliance confusion during ship construction and inspection.
The recent revisions to UI SC73 and UI SC160 represent a refined approach to fire protection, distinguishing between open-air environments and enclosed high-risk service areas.
Detailed Expansion of IACS Updates
1. UI SC73 (Rev.3): Portable Extinguishers in Vehicle Spaces
This update focuses on SOLAS Regulation II-2/20.6.3.1, which dictates the quantity and placement of portable fire extinguishers in spaces designed for the carriage of vehicles.
The Clarification: The primary change in Revision 3 is the explicit exclusion of weather decks from the requirement to carry portable fire extinguishers specifically for vehicle carriage.
The Rationale: Firefighting on an open weather deck presents different challenges and dynamics compared to enclosed vehicle decks (like those on Ro-Ro ships). Existing fire-main requirements (hydrants and hoses) are deemed more effective for weather deck arrangements, where smoke accumulation is not a primary risk.
Implementation: This interpretation will be uniformly applied by IACS societies from 1 July 2026.
2. UI SC160 (Rev.2): Fixed Fire Detection Requirements
This revision addresses SOLAS Regulation II-2/7.5.5.3, which concerns the protection of crew and vital ship functions through fixed fire detection and alarm systems. The interpretation varies based on the "Method" of fire protection chosen for the vessel (specifically Method IIIC).
Breakdown of Requirements:
Service Spaces & Method IIIC: Under Method IIIC (which relies on the subdivision of accommodation spaces by "A" and "B" class boundaries without a mandatory sprinkler system), fixed fire detection in "service spaces" (like galleys or laundries) is only mandatory if those spaces are located within the accommodation block.
Control Stations & Cargo Control Rooms: Regardless of the construction method used, these areas are considered critical for the ship's command and safety. Therefore, fixed fire detection and fire alarm systems are always required.
Scope of Protection: The requirement remains stringent for all escape routes and accommodation spaces to ensure early warning for crew members.
Application Timeline:
These requirements are tied to the vessel's "Date of Build." It applies to ships constructed on or after 1 July 2026.
Summary Table: Quick Reference
| Regulation | Focus Area | Key Update | Effective Date |
| UI SC73 | Vehicle Spaces | Portable extinguishers not required on weather decks. | 1 July 2026 |
| UI SC160 | Detection Systems | Service spaces outside accommodation (Method IIIC) may be exempt; Control stations never exempt. | 1 July 2026 (New Builds) |
Final Word
These updates reflect the maritime industry's move toward "smart compliance"—ensuring that safety equipment is placed where it is most effective rather than simply following a blanket requirement. For shipowners, designers, and shipyards, the July 2026 deadline serves as a critical milestone. Incorporating these interpretations during the design phase of upcoming projects will be essential to avoid costly retrofits or delays in certification during the next generation of shipbuilding.
For more information, click on below image to download SC73 (Fire protection of weather decks) and SC160 (Method IIIC Construction):
Source: IACS
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