Answer
The IMO has rolled out major, game-changing amendments to the IGC Code. As an MEO Class 1 candidate, the examiners at Kolkata MMD will evaluate your knowledge on these specific updates, as they directly address current industry priorities: decarbonization (alternative fuels) and cryogenic metallurgy.
1. Amendments Entering into Force on 1 July 2026 (Resolution MSC.566(109))
Use of Toxic Cargoes as Fuel
Historically, paragraph 16.9.2 of the IGC Code strictly prohibited the use of cargo identified as toxic for onboard propulsion or power generation.
The New Amendment: If accepted by the Flag Administration, cargoes identified as toxic products required to be carried in Type 2G/2PG ships (specifically Anhydrous Ammonia) can now legally be used as fuel.
Safety Proviso: The amendment specifies that any ship utilizing toxic cargo as fuel must guarantee and prove the same level of safety as traditional natural gas (methane) in terms of piping containment, double-walled ventilation, leak detection, and purging systems.
Why it matters for your oral exam: This provides the missing regulatory framework for the newest generation of zero-carbon ammonia-fueled Very Large Gas Carriers (VLGCs).
2. Amendments Entering into Force on 1 January 2026 (Resolution MSC.523(106))
Inclusion of High Manganese Austenitic Steel
The properties of structural metals used for ultra-low temperature applications (like LNG at −163∘C or fully refrigerated Ethane) are heavily regulated under Chapter 6 of the IGC Code.
The New Amendment: Section 6.4 (Requirements for metallic materials) has completely replaced Table 6.3 (Plates, Sections, and Forgings for Cargo Tanks, Secondary Barriers, and Process Pressure Vessels).
Technical Update: The revised table officially incorporates High Manganese (High-Mn) Austenitic Steel as an approved material for cryogenic service down to −165∘C.
Why it matters for your oral exam: High-Mn steel provides high tensile strength and fracture toughness at cryogenic temperatures while being significantly cheaper to manufacture and weld than conventional high-nickel alloys (such as 9% Nickel steel).
3. Approved Amendments for Future Implementation (Due 1 July 2028 – Approved at MSC 111 / May 2026)
The IMO Marine Safety Committee has approved an extensive overhaul of the IGC Code (slated for adoption in late 2026, entering force on 1 July 2028). These updates reflect modern design trends:
Carriage of CO2 Cargoes: With the global surge in Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) projects, the IGC Code framework is being drastically expanded to establish dedicated safety rules for liquefied carbon dioxide carriers (LCO2).
Application of FEA to Type C Tanks: Explicit rules have been introduced regarding the application of advanced Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to Type C independent pressure tanks to optimize thickness and design safety margins under cyclic thermal-pressure loading.
Overhaul of the ESD Matrix: A completely revised and clarified Causes and Effects Matrix for the Emergency Shutdown (ESD) system has been integrated to leave zero ambiguity regarding automated plant-tripping interlocks.
"One Ship, One Code" Alternative Fuel Principle: Clarifications on when alternative fuels (like LPG, Ethane, or Ammonia) are regulated under the IGC Code provisions versus when the IGF Code takes over.
⚓ MEO Class 1 Oral Exam Delivery Tip
If the examiner asks: "What are the latest developments in the IGC Code?", structure your answer concisely like this:
"Sir, the most significant recent amendment entered into force on 1 July 2026 under Resolution MSC.566(109). It completely updates Paragraph 16.9.2 to permit the use of toxic cargoes, specifically Anhydrous Ammonia, as fuel for propulsion and auxiliary engines, provided it satisfies the safety criteria of the Administration.
Additionally, from 1 January 2026, the code has been updated to officially permit the use of cost-effective High Manganese Austenitic Steel for cryogenic services down to −165∘C. Looking ahead, the IMO has recently approved major updates for 2028 to incorporate liquefied CO2 carriage and completely harmonize the ESD cause-and-effect interlocking matrix."