The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) on January 22, 2026, issued a notification regarding the implementation of SOLAS Regulation II-1/3-13 – Lifting Appliances and Anchor Handling Winches on Board Indian-Flag Vessels.
The following has been stated: -
•IMO’s new SOLAS Regulation II-1/3-13 becomes mandatory from January 01, 2026, to improve the safety of lifting appliances and anchor handling winches.
•The Notice provides guidance for Indian-flagged vessels on design, installation, testing, inspection, and maintenance requirements.
•New equipment installed from January 01, 2026, must meet Recognized Organization standards, be load tested, examined, marked, and documented for SWL.
•Existing equipment must be tested and examined by the first SAFCON renewal survey on or after January 01, 2026.
•Regular load testing, retesting every five years, and proper certification of loose gear are mandatory to ensure ongoing safety and compliance.
The detailed notification is given in the document below.
[Notification No.: Merchant Shipping Notice No. 02 of 2026]
