RS remains actively engaged in updating the IMSAS Framework and Procedures

The meeting addressed key aspects of modernizing and improving the Audit Scheme, including the revision of the IMSAS Framework and Procedures (resolution A.1067(28)) and the implementation of new mechanisms to enhance audits’ efficiency and transparency.

Having achieved its challenging objective, the Joint Working Group developed a draft revised resolution to enter into force as to the following schedule:

• July 2025: the IMO Council approval;
• November 2025: final adoption at the 34th session of the IMO Assembly;
• 2026: updating the supporting Auditor's Manual to include aspects resulting from the resolution mandatory provisions with the aim to increase transparency and comparability of audits’ results, as well as to reduce administrative burden. The document is non-mandatory;
• 2027: the second Member States audits cycle will be conducted under the new Procedures.

The most significant and fundamental change included in the new IMSAS Procedures is the introduction of the IMSAS Continuous Monitoring Mechanism (ICMM), which will prioritize audits based on data regarding the implementation of international maritime law in national legislative and law-enforcement practices, as well as the effectiveness of Member States’ implementation of mandatory IMO instruments.

In addition, the new Procedures include the consolidated State Audit Questionnaire (SAQ), simplifying audits’ preparation process. Another important innovation is the formalization of remote audits for exceptional cases, including health crises, political instability or natural disasters. The remote format will supplement conventional on-site audits and will be used for follow-up actions and documentary verification.

Additional information:

Founded in 1913, Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RS) is a world-renowned classification society that operates within all spheres of the maritime industry with the goal of improving the operational and environmental safety of marine transportation. RS reviews technical documentation, surveys ships and offshore facilities under construction and in service, certifies vessels and companies for compliance with international conventions, recognizes and certifies industrial products and manufacturers, certifies quality management systems for compliance with international and national standards.

Today, RS is actively implementing the concept "More than class" by expanding its scope of services in the field of engineering and consulting, the development of technical documentation for vessels in service, marine warranty surveys and certification. In addition, RS surveys all container types, including tank containers and offshore containers, confirms compliance of packaging for dangerous goods, as well as renders services on the declaration and certification of dangerous goods and bulk cargoes.