High-Speed Craft - New Code

July 2002

Information from IMO Breifing 21/2002, 1 July 2002:

The new High-Speed Craft Code, 2000 is an updated version of the High-Speed Craft Code adopted in 1994 and made mandatory under SOLAS chapter X (Safety measures for high-speed craft). The new Code applies to all HSC built on or after the date of entry into force.

The original HSC Code was adopted by IMO in May 1994, but the rapid pace of development in this sector of shipping has meant an early revision of the Code. The original Code will continue to apply to existing high-speed craft. The changes incorporated in the new Code are intended to bring it into line with amendments to SOLAS and new recommendations that have been adopted in the past four years - for example, requirements covering public address systems and helicopter pick-up areas.

Consequential amendments to SOLAS chapter X (Safety measures for high-speed craft) - to make the new Code mandatory - were also adopted.