As seafarers, you know that Port State Control (PSC) inspections are a critical part of maintaining high standards across the global fleet. These checks serve as a vital backup to flag State oversight, acting as a second line of defense against substandard vessels. They help verify that ships meet international requirements for safety, security, manning, operation, and pollution prevention.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) regularly reviews and updates its recommended procedures for PSC to keep them aligned with the latest conventions, codes, and industry needs. The most recent version, known as the Procedures for Port State Control, 2025, was adopted under IMO Assembly Resolution A.1206(34). This revision replaces the previous edition (A.1185(33)) and officially entered into force on 1 January 2026.

Although these procedures are not legally binding, they represent global best practice. Regional PSC organizations, such as the Paris MoU, Tokyo MoU, and others, base their inspection regimes on these IMO guidelines. As a result, the changes directly influence what PSC officers (PSCOs) look for during inspections and how they handle deficiencies.

Main Updates in the 2025 Procedures

One of the most notable additions is a brand-new Appendix 20: Guidelines for Port State Control Officers on Security Aspects. These guidelines outline the specific role of PSCOs when dealing with maritime security issues. They focus only on the responsibilities of PSCOs and do not cover duties reserved for duly authorized security officers.

The new security guidance draws from earlier IMO documents, including the Interim Guidance on Control and Compliance Measures to Enhance Maritime Security (MSC.159(78)). It clarifies the steps PSCOs should take if they identify security-related deficiencies during an inspection. This helps ensure consistent handling of security matters across ports worldwide, reducing the risk of substandard security practices going unnoticed.

Another important update appears in Appendix 21: List of Instruments Relevant to Port State Control Procedures. This appendix has been refreshed to reflect recent IMO developments. It now references updated requirements, such as the 2024 Guidelines for the Development of a Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) (MEPC.395(82)) and voluntary early implementation of amendments to the IGF Code (MSC.551(108)) concerning safe use of certain fuels.

These additions ensure that PSC inspections stay current with evolving rules on energy efficiency, alternative fuels, and other technical areas. When preparing for port calls, crews should confirm that their documentation and onboard practices align with these referenced instruments.

Why These Revisions Matter to Seafarers

PSC inspections can lead to delays, detentions, or corrective actions if serious deficiencies are found. By understanding the updated procedures, you can better anticipate what inspectors will check and prepare your vessel accordingly. For example:

1. Security-related checks may now follow clearer, standardized steps.
2. Inspectors will reference the latest SEEMP guidelines and IGF Code updates when assessing energy management and fuel safety.
3. The overall focus remains on preventing substandard shipping while promoting fair and harmonized enforcement across regions.

Regular familiarization with these guidelines helps crews maintain compliance, avoid unnecessary deficiencies, and contribute to safer seas.

The IMO updates its PSC procedures roughly every two years to incorporate new regulations and lessons from real-world inspections. Staying informed about these changes is part of professional development for all seafarers.

Resource: For the full text, refer to IMO Assembly Resolution A.1206(34) – Procedures for Port State Control, 2025 (available through official IMO channels or maritime administrations).