SOLAS

From MarineWiki

SOLAS, also The International Convention for the Safety at Sea

History

SOLAS is one of the oldest convention and the first version was adopted at a conference in London in 1914, following the sinking of the TITANIC on her maiden voyage in April 1912.

• 1914 - Did not enter in to force due to First World War
• 1929 - Adopted in 1933
• 1948 - Adopted in 1952
• 1960 - Adopted in 1965
• 1974 - Adopted in 1980

Chapters

• Chapter I  : General provisions
• Chapter II-1 : Construction - Structure, subdivisions and stability, machinery and electrical installations
• Chapter II-2 : Construction - Fire protection, fire detection and fire extinction
• Chapter III : Life-saving appliances and arrangements
• Chapter IV : Radio communications
• Chapter V  : Safety of Navigation
• Chapter VI : Carriage of cargoes
• Chapter VII  : Carriage of dangerous goods
• Chapter VIII :Nuclear ships
• Chapter IX : Management for the safe operation of ships
• Chapter X  : Safety measures for high-speed craft
• Chapter XI  : Special measures to enhance maritime safety
• Chapter XII : Additional safety measure for bulk carriers

Amendment Process

The initial work on amendments to SOLAS is normally done by MSC with assistance from one or more sub-committee. The expanded MSC adopts a final amended text. New SOLAS amendments enter into force a certain time after the expanded MSC adoption, unless more than one-third of the contracting governments with a combined merchant fleet not less than 50% of the gross tonnage of the world's merchant fleet have notified their objects within a certain time. The implementation of the requirements of the amendments is mandatory for contracting governments.