Shipping has historically been a male-dominated industry and that tradition runs long and deep. However, through its global programme on the Integration of Women in the Maritime Sector, IMO is making a concerted effort to help the industry move on from that tradition and to help women achieve a representation within it that is more in keeping with twenty-first century expectations.

Mandatory requirements relating to periodic servicing and maintenance of lifeboats and rescue boats, launching appliances and release gear are on the agenda of the Sub-Committee on Ship Systems and Equipment (SSE), which is meeting for its 3rd session (14-18 March) at IMO Headquarters. The Sub-Committee will work towards finalizing draft amendments to SOLAS chapter III and the draft mandatory MSC resolution on Requirements for periodic servicing and maintenance of lifeboats and rescue boats, launching appliances and release gear, for submission to the Maritime Safety Committee for adoption.