What is SOLAS?
The international convention for the safety of life at sea. It was adopted in 1974, 1st November and entry into force 1980, 25 May.
In response to the Titanic Disaster, the first version of the SOLAS convention was adopted 1914, secondly in 1929, thirdly in 1948, and the fourth in 1960. Following SOLAS 60 it was intended to keep convention up to date by periodic amendments but it was too slow to enter into force within a reasonable period of time. For this reason, it was necessary to adopt a new SOLAS convention in 1974.
Objectives:
The main objective of the SOLAS convention is to maintain the minimum standard for the construction, equipment, and operation of ships compatible with their safety.
SOLAS Chapters
Chapter 1
General Provisions
Chapter 2
Constructions
- Structure, Subdivision, Stability, Machinery And Electrical installations
- Fire Protection, Fire Detection, and Fire Extinction
Chapter 3
Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements
Chapter 4
Radio Communications
Chapter 5
Safety Of Navigation
Chapter 6
Carriage Of Cargo
Chapter 7
Carriage Of Dangerous Goods
Chapter 8
Nuclear Ships
Chapter 9
Management For the safe operation of the Ship (This is where the ISM code comes from)
Chapter 10
Safety measures for high-speed crafts
Chapter 11
- Special measures to enhance maritime safety
- Special measures to enhance maritime security (ISPS code)
Chapter 12
Additional Safety measures for Bulk Carriers
Chapter 13
Verification of compliance
Chapter 14
Safety Measures for ships operating in POLAR water