Key IMO regulatory changes effective 1 January 2026 now require ships to report lost and drifting containers to multiple authorities. At the same time, seafarer training expands to include harassment prevention, fishing vessel standards are harmonised, and the 2024 edition of the IMDG Code becomes mandatory. Companies like SeaEmploy are already adjusting policies and training to match these global requirements, ensuring safer and more responsible operations across the seas.
Shipping is evolving quickly, and professionals must understand these changes. This article breaks down each update clearly and practically.
The first major change affects safety and environmental reporting. Subsequent sections cover human factors, fishing vessel training, and dangerous goods carriage.
Mandatory reporting of lost containers under SOLAS and MARPOL
From January 2026, amendments to SOLAS Chapter V (Regulations 31 and 32) and MARPOL Protocol I require all ships to report containers lost overboard or seen drifting at sea.
Masters must immediately notify nearby vessels, the nearest coastal state authority, and the ship’s flag State with details such as position, container count, size/type, and any dangerous goods involved. If the master cannot report (e.g., ship abandoned), the company must take responsibility.
This standardised reporting replaces previously inconsistent practices. It enhances navigational safety by alerting others to potential hazards and improves environmental response by coastal authorities. Countries will be better positioned to coordinate search, recovery and environmental mitigation efforts.
Importantly, flag States then report these incidents to the IMO’s GISIS database, creating a centralised global record. Over time, this data should help reduce hazards and improve container carriage practices.
- Why it matters: Floating containers pose collision risks to vessels and can spill cargo, including hazardous materials.
- Who is affected: All SOLAS-regulated ships carrying containers, plus any vessel that observes drifting containers.
These changes put safety and transparency at the heart of maritime operations for everyone from shipowners to insurers.
Expanded seafarer training under the STCW Code
STCW harassment and social responsibility training
The 2026 regulatory landscape brings major changes to seafarer training. The STCW Code now includes mandatory training on preventing and responding to harassment, bullying, and sexual assault as part of the Personal Safety and Social Responsibility (PSSR) module.
This is a significant shift. Previously, training focused mainly on technical safety skills. Now, seafarers must understand not just what abuse looks like, but also how to intervene, report incidents, and support affected colleagues.
The goal is to build safer onboard environments and to foster dignity and respect at sea. It reflects growing recognition that human wellbeing and safety culture are as critical as navigation and machinery competencies.
- Who must comply: All seafarers undertaking Basic Training under STCW.
- What it covers: Identification of harassment and bullying, understanding of effects on victims and operation, and appropriate response actions.
This update aligns with broader industry efforts to improve retention, morale, and workplace culture across global fleets.
STCW-F Convention – Harmonised standards for fishing vessel personnel
Alongside STCW updates, the STCW-F Convention now sets harmonised competency levels and mandatory training standards for fishing vessel personnel.
Historically, fishing vessel training varied widely across regions. The 2026 changes introduce consistent minimum requirements and a dedicated STCW-F Code that mirrors merchant shipping standards.
This change improves safety and professional recognition for crews in one of the world’s most hazardous maritime sectors. Training now covers both operational competencies and safety behaviours required for fishing vessels.
For employers and training providers, this means upgrading curricula, assessments, and certification processes to match the new international framework.
IMDG Code 2024 Edition effective from 1 January 2026
The International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, 2024 Edition, including Amendment 42-24, becomes mandatory on 1 January 2026.
This updated edition strengthens requirements around classification, packing, marking, labelling, and documentation of dangerous cargoes. It also introduces updated procedures and clarifications for shippers, carriers, and port personnel.
The transition period allowed voluntary use from 1 January 2025; however, full compliance is now required. This ensures that all shipments of hazardous goods meet the most current safety standards and reduces incidents related to misdeclared or poorly packed cargo.
Shippers and operators must update procedures, training, and documentation to align with IMDG 2024. Non-compliance can result in enforcement actions by port states and delays in cargo handling.
Closing paragraph
In summary, the IMO regulatory changes effective 1 January 2026 represent a meaningful advance in maritime safety, environmental protection, and human factors. From mandatory lost container reporting under SOLAS/MARPOL to enhanced training in the STCW and fishing vessel standards, the industry must adapt quickly. The new IMDG Code ensures dangerous goods movements stay safe and compliant. For shipowners, seafarers, training providers, and cargo interests, now is the time to update procedures, train personnel, and integrate these changes into everyday practice. Stay informed, act proactively, and help shape safer, fairer, and more responsible seas.
