IACS clarification on SOLAS Regulation II-2/11.4.1 for category A machinery space crowns

The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) has issued a new Unified Interpretation of SOLAS Regulation II-2/11.4.1, which pertains to the crowns of machinery spaces of category A.

The document was published on 1 May 2024.

According to the regulation, these crowns and casings must be constructed of steel and insulated as specified in tables 9.5 and 9.7.

The interpretation clarifies that the "crown" refers to the underside of the deck and the uppermost horizontal part of the main machinery space. Additionally, if the upper side bulkheads are sloping, these sloping parts are also considered part of the crown.

This interpretation is to be uniformly implemented by IACS member societies for ships contracted for construction on or after July 1, 2025.

For more information, please see the document below (available only to subscribers):

Interpretation of SOLAS Regulation II-2/11.4.1 Pertaining to Crowns of Machinery Spaces of Category A