Maritime UK MASS CoP v2

13.8.6 Where a MASS uses, transfers or holds bulk quantities of substances, materials or liquids that, in the event of a
spillage could constitute an environmental impact then the Operator is recommended to develop and implement
a MASS Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (MASSOPEP).
13.9 Procedures to Ensure Safe Operation of MASS
13.9.1 The regulations and rules, not addressed by this Code of Practice, which apply to all MASS include, but are not
limited to:
n The IMO Instruments;
n Local navigation rules;
n National health and safety regulations;
n The Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seamen;
n All relevant national shipping or guidance notices.
13.9.2 The Operator should pay due adherence to the many and varied statutes, legislations, rules, regulations and
codes of practice that apply to seafaring. Although the autonomous nature of the MASS operation may seem to
negate some requirements, it is the unmanned aspect that should demand increased awareness. Any procedures
produced should pay particular attention to this detail, especially those systems and equipment procedures that
are required to avoid collision.
13.9.3 The Operator should formulate and document procedures to ensure that safe working practices are carried out
in the operation of the MASS. These may be in the form of checklists, which can be followed by all personnel
irrespective of their location.
13.9.4 Simple procedures should be developed for the operation of the MASS. These should include, but not be limited to:
n Testing of equipment, including propulsion and steering gear, prior to commencing a passage;
n Navigation and handling of the MASS;
n Maintenance routines;
n Bunkering operations;
n Watertight/weathertight integrity;
n Stability of the MASS;
n Conduct of passengers and crew if utilised on board.
13.9.5 Due to the autonomous nature of vessel operation the following areas should be considered on top of traditional
vessel operating procedures:
n Anti-Collision, unmanned vessels and the ability to detect and avoid collision;
n Cyber Security, anti-hacking and vessel hijacking for remote operated vessels;
n Anti-Piracy, close protection, remote control etc;
n SOLAS Reg 14, considerations pertaining to evidence of minimum manning level requirements;
n SOLAS Reg 33, Distress situations and how the Operator meets its obligations and responsibilities to other
mariners in distress;
n SOLAS Reg III/17-1, How the MASS could possible assist in the removing persons from the water;
n Meet the various definitions of seaworthiness with no embarked manning.
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MASS UK Code of Practice Version 2