Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) & Convention for Prevention of Marine Pollution (MARPOL): The Ultimate Guide
The maritime industry’s most important concerns are the safety of personnel and prevention of marine pollution for smooth cargo transportation and marine operation at high seas. To achieve this, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) relies on its two very strong pillars: SOLAS & MARPOL – The International Conventions for safeguarding human life and marine environment from all kinds of pollutions and accidents.
What is SOLAS Convention?
The word SOLAS is an abbreviation and SOLAS full form is “Safety Of Life At Sea”, an international maritime treaty, also known as SOLAS Convention or International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), which establishes the least safety measures in the construction, equipment and operation of merchant ships.
IMO SOLAS 74, the last adopted revised convention of 1974, includes a number of regulations under different SOLAS chapters, which deals with safety precautions and safety procedures starting from the construction of the ship to real emergency like – “Abandon Ship”. The convention is updated to meet the safety norms in the modern shipping industry from time to time.
This article explains the contents of SOLAS chapters and regulations providing a summary of SOLAS, i.e. different chapters of SOLAS and the regulations they carry. Marine Insight has provided links of various articles which will help the readers to understand how the regulation of the SOLAS Annexes is implemented on a seagoing vessel and the importance of SOLAS.
SOLAS 74
SOLAS CONTENT:
The SOLAS 1974 international maritime treaty comprises of 13 chapters and each chapter has its own set of regulations. The Following are the list of SOLAS all 14 chapters and the regulations they contain:
The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), 1974 describes the requirement for all merchant ship of any flag state to comply with the minimum safety norms laid down in the chapters which are as follows:
Chapter I – General Provisions: Surveys and certification of all the safety items etc are included.
Chapter II-1 – Construction – Subdivision and stability, machinery and electrical installations: Deals with watertight integrity of the ship, especially for passenger vessel.
Chapter II-2 – Fire protection, fire detection and fire extinction: This chapter elaborates the means and measure for fire protection in accommodation, cargo spaces and engine room for the passenger, cargo and tanker ship.
Chapter III – Life-saving appliances and arrangements: All the life-saving appliances and there use in different situations is described.
Chapter IV – Radio communications: Includes requirements of GMDSS, SART, EPIRB etc for cargo and passenger vessel.
Chapter V – Safety of navigation: This chapter deals with all the seagoing vessels of all sizes, from boats to VLCCs, and includes passage planning, navigation, distress signal etc.
Chapter VI – Carriage of Cargoes: This chapter defines storage and securing of different types of cargo and containers, but does not include oil and gas cargo.
Chapter VII – Carriage of dangerous goods: Defines the International Maritime Goods Code for storage and transportation of dangerous goods.
Chapter VIII – Nuclear ships: The code of safety for a nuclear-propelled ship is stated in this chapter.
Chapter IX – Management for the Safe Operation of Ships: The International Safety Management code for ship owner and the operator is described clearly.
Chapter X – Safety measures for high-speed craft: safety code for the high-speed craft is explained.
Chapter XI-1 & 2– Special measures to enhance maritime safety: Special and enhanced survey for safe operation, other operational requirements and ISPS code is briefed in this chapter.
Chapter XII – Additional safety measures for bulk carriers: Includes safety requirement for above 150 meters length bulk carrier.
Chapter XIII – Verification of Compliance
Chapter XIV -Safety Measures for Ships Operating in Polar Waters
Let’s take each Solas chapter in detail:
SOLAS Chapter I
In the SOLAS Chapter 1; General Provisions, Surveys and certification of all the safety items, structure, machinery etc. are included.
This chapter is further subdivided into 3 parts- Part A, Part B and Part C.
Part A contains 5 regulation which explains the “Application” of this chapter in different types of the ship along with the “Definition” of different terminology which is used in the chapter. The regulation may not be applicable to all types of a ship; hence a separate section of “Exceptions” and “Exemptions” is also provided.
All the SOLAS chapters cover a general basic minimum criterion which applies to seagoing ships, regardless of their location and nationality. It is possible that the material or appliances available in one country are not available for the ship in another country. An “Equivalent” Section is also provided to deal with such a situation.
Part B contains the important regulations informing about surveys and certificates seagoing ships need to have to be said compliant with SOLAS. For this, 15 regulations are kept under Part B. Regulation 6 to Regulation 11 provides details of different survey requirement on different ships, equipment, machinery etc. clauses on how to do the repair and what kind of surveys to go through.
Related Read: A List of Inspections And Surveys Deck Officers On Ships Should Be Aware Of
What is the Harmonised Survey System for Ships?
Regulation 12 to Regulation 18 explains the different requirement for certification obtained post surveys.
Related Read: 40 Ship Certificates and Documents that are Checked in a Port State Control (PSC) Survey
Regulation 19 – Control: This regulation explains the jurisdiction of local government a foreign ship is voyaging, such as coast guard, port state etc. to inspect the vessel for ensuring the safety of the ship. It also explains the step to be taken by the government authorities to notify the concerned (next port of call, owner, class etc.) and how to exercise the control.
Related Read: The Ultimate Guide to Port State Control (PSC) Inspection on Ships
Regulation 20 – Privileges: this regulation explains if the ship can or cannot claim any privileges depending upon the certificates it holds.
Part C of Chapter 1 contains only one regulation, i.e. Regulation 21, which explains how a contracting government can carry out an inquiry for the ship which was involved in an incident and causalities and what kind of information needs to be collected and to be passed through.
Related Read: 10 Important Things To Do During Ship Collision Accident
How P & I Clubs Work – Procedure for Accident Response
SOLAS Chapter II-1
Construction – Subdivision and stability, machinery and electrical installations: This chapter of SOLAS Deals with watertight integrity of the ship, including the passenger’s vessel and comprises of 7 parts, explaining the requirement for structural, machinery, electrical, stability and other criteria for a safe ship.
Part A contains 3 regulations which explain the “Application” of this chapter on ships as per their keel laying. The regulations explain the “Definition” of different terminology which is used in the chapter.
Part A-1 comprises of regulations explaining the requirement for the structure of the ship including protective coating, towing arrangements, deck equipment fittings, construction and drawings etc. It also includes the regulation on how to provide access to different parts of oil tanker and bulk carrier and the structure access manual which contains the details of the structure including plans for means of access. Method to construct a ship which complies with the regulation for protection against noise is also included.
Related Read: Preparations For Emergency Towing Of Ship – 10 Important Points
Part B of this regulation explains the stability and watertight integrity requirement. Under Part B 1, the regulations (Regulation 5 to 8) defines the necessary conditions for maintaining the intact stability of the cargo ship and passenger ship. It also includes a requirement on the information which needs to be supplied to the master on the stability of the vessel explaining how to calculate the stability factors in different conditions.
Related Read: Understanding Watertight Bulkheads In Ships: Construction and SOLAS Regulations
Ship Stability – What Makes a Ship Unstable?
Part B 2 comprises of 4 regulations (Regulation 9 to 17) which takes care of the watertight integrity of the ship (both passenger and cargo ship) by enlisting the constructional and testing requirements of watertight and other important bulkheads, and the provision of the double bottom on ships other than tanker ships.
Related Read: How to Test and Maintain Cargo Hatch Cover of a Dry Ship?
Designing A Ship’s Bottom Structure – A General Overview
Part B 3 explains the requirement for the subdivision load line assignment for passenger ships.
Part B 4 of this chapter comprises of 7 regulations ( Regulation 19 to Regulation 25) for the requirement of stability management explaining the inspections, preventions, damage control drills, and information for cargo and passenger ships.
Part C focuses on different machinery installation in the engine room including the requirement of emergency installations in the passenger ships from regulation 26 to regulation 39.
Related Read: 5 Stages Of Marine Machinery Installation On Ships
Part D of this chapter (from regulation 40 to 45) focuses on the electrical installation requirement for cargo and passenger ships including the emergency source and arrangements along with electrical safety and hazards.
Related Read: How to Install Electronic Circuits on Ship?
How is Power Generated and Supplied on a Ship?
Part E clarifies the requirement for unattended machinery space under regulation 46 to 54 explicitly.
Related Read: Preparation for UMS Operation On Ships
Part F of this chapter gives the details about the alternative design and arrangement for the ship’s machinery and electrical system under regulation 55. It also explains the storage and distribution requirement for the low flashpoint fuel system.
Part G explains the application and requirements as per the regulation 56 and 57 for the ships using low flash point fuels.
Related Read: How to select Marine Fuel Oil and Factors Necessary for Fuel Oil System
SOLAS Chapter II-2
Fire protection, fire detection and fire extinction: This chapter elaborates the means and measure for fire protection in accommodation, cargo spaces and engine room for the passenger, cargo and tanker ship. This chapter is divided into 7 parts, explaining the various requirement for fire safety system installed on a ship.
Part A contains regulations 1 to 3 which explains the “Application” of this chapter on ships construction date and the regulations also explains the “Definition” of different terminology which is used in the chapter and the objective and functional requirement of this chapter.
Part B of this chapter specifies the requirement to prevent fire and explosion on cargo ship including tankers. It has 3 regulations from Regulation 4 to regulation 6; Regulation 4 giving the details of how to prevent the ignition of a combustible source present on ships including the limitations and arrangements on the use of fuel and lube oils used onboard, and prevention of fire in the cargo areas of the tanker ship.
Regulation 5 laid down the requirement to curb the growth of the fire in different spaces on the ship, which includes cutting any one side of the fire triangle, i.e. to control either air supply, oil supply or the heat source (using protection materials like insulation, linings etc.) in the potential hazardous space.
Related Read: 16 Fire Fighting Appliances and Preventive Measures Onboard Ships
Regulation 6 of this part focus on reduction of hazards to human life from products which release smoke and toxic gases (such as paint, varnish etc.).
Related Read: 20 Hazards On Oil Tanker Ship Every Seafarer Must Know
Part C of this chapter comprises of 5 regulations (Regulation 7 to Regulation 11) and focuses on requirement to suppress the fire at the earliest, including detection and control of smoke and flames, containment requirements, structural integrity of the space to prevent spreading of fire and firefighting systems and equipment to be used on ships machinery, accommodation and cargo spaces.
Related Read: Basics of Fire Prevention Onboard Ships
Part D focuses on the escape of the seafarers or passengers in case of fire or any other emergency. Regulation 13 explains the various requirement for means of escape for different types of ships (cargo ship, passenger ship, RoRo ship etc.), equipment and systems which helps in escaping from the hazardous place etc.
Part E of chapter II-2 consist of Regulation 14 to regulation 16 providing information on the maintenance of the fire detection, fighting, and control equipment on cargo ships including tankers and passenger ships. It also explains the requirement for training and drills to be carried out on fire safety onboard ship. Regulation 16 focuses on the fire safety booklet which should be kept on board ship for all types of vessel.
Related Read: The importance of fire drills on ships
Part F of this chapter gives the details about the alternative design and arrangement for the ship’s fire safety under regulation 17.
Related Read: A Brief Overview of Fire Control Plan on Ship
Part G contains a special requirement for the operations which are carried out on the tanker and bulk carrier ships such as helicopter operation (Regulation 18) giving details of different constructional, safety and firefighting arrangements. Regulation 19 provides safety measures for carrying dangerous goods in a container, bulk, tanker or Roro ships.
Related Read: 16 Fire Fighting Appliances and Preventive Measures Onboard Ships
Regulation 20 focuses on ships which carry vehicle as cargoes along with passengers explaining prevention, detection, and containment of fire on such ships. Regulation 21, 22 and 23 are passenger-centric, describing the requirement a passenger ship should follow in case of fire incident onboard ship to save passenger and ship from a major accident.
Related Read: DNV GL: Enhancing Fire Safety On Ro-Ro Decks
SOLAS Chapter III
Life-saving appliances and arrangements: All the lifesaving appliances and there use in different situations according to the ship type is described in this chapter.
This chapter comprises of 3 Parts. Part A contains 5 regulation which explains the “Application” of this chapter in different types of the ship along with the “Definition” of different terminology which is used in the chapter. The regulation may not be applicable to all types of a ship; hence a separate section of “Exceptions” and “Exemptions” is also provided. Further, onboard testing and production testing procedures are also explained.
Part B comprises of total 32 regulations (from Regulation no. 6 to 37) dealing with the requirements of life-saving appliances on passenger and cargo ships. Regulation 6 describes the communication appliance (Radio, Pyrotechnics etc.) used for safety and life-saving situations on vessels.
Related Read: What Are PyroTechnics on Ship?
History of Maritime Distress Signals
Regulation 7 list downs the requirement for the personal life-saving appliance such as lifejackets, lifebuoys, immersion suit etc.
Related Read: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Life Jackets on Ships
Regulation 8 to Regulation 11 contains the instruction on muster station, survival craft operation and manning, along with their embarkation arrangements explaining the different requirements.
Related Read: Liferafts on Ships: SOLAS Requirements, Safety Features & Launching Procedure
Regulation 12 specifically address the location of survival craft in a cargo ship (other than free fall lifeboat). Regulation 13 to Regulation 17 details on the stowage and necessary arrangement required for the lifeboat, liferaft, marine evacuation system, recovery boat on the ship and Man Overboard Operation.
Related Read: Types of Lifeboats Used On Ship
Regulation 18 lists down the requirement for line throwing appliances used on the ship. Regulation 19 deals with various training and drills requirement for onboard crew.
Regulation 20 applied to all the ships for operational readiness, maintenance and survey requirement of survival crafts and other lifesaving appliances onboard ship.
Related Read: Preparation For Safety Equipment Survey On Ships
Life Raft Repair Services and Maintenance Procedures: A General Overview
Regulation 21 to Regulation 30 tell about the additional requirement for passenger ship about survival crafts and all lifesaving appliances on the passenger ships, including drills for passengers onboard ship and helicopter operation in a passenger ship (ro-ro passenger ships of 130m in length should be provided with a helicopter landing area).
Related Read: Cruise Ship Passenger Drill Requirements Come Into Force On 1 January 2015
Regulation 31 to Regulation 34 tell about the additional requirement for cargo ship about survival crafts and all lifesaving appliances on the ships.
Regulation 35 to 37 contains various instructions for onboard maintenance, muster lists etc. and availability of training manual and other onboard training aids on the ship.
Related Read: Important Features of Muster List on Ship
Part C of this chapter gives the details about the alternative design and arrangement for ship’s lifesaving appliances under regulation 38.
SOLAS Chapter IV
Radio communications: This chapter Includes requirements of different radio communication equipment used onboard ships such as GMDSS, SART, EPIRB etc for cargo and passenger vessel. This chapter is divided into 3 parts; Part A, Part B and Part C.
Part A contains regulations 1 to 4 which explains the “Application” of this chapter and the regulations also explains the “Definition” of different terminology which is used in the chapter and the objective and functional requirement of this chapter. Further, it includes the exemptional requirement and the details of GMDSS satellite providers.
Related Read: SOLAS requirement for Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GMDSS)
Part B consisted of Regulation 5 explaining the provisions of radiocommunication services and the identities of GMDSS by the contracting government.
Related Read: How to get a GMDSS Endorsement Certificate?
Part C insists on the ship-based requirement for the radio equipment and comprises of 13 regulations. Regulation 6 gives the details of radio installation requirement on all types of ship. Regulation 7 provides details of different radio equipment minimum requirement which are to be used on ships.
Related Read: What Marine Communication Systems Are Used in the Maritime Industry?
Regulation 8 to Regulation 11 provides the details of radio installation capability to initial ship to shore communications and alerts in Sea areas A1, A2, A3 and A4.
Related Read: Introduction to Global Maritime Distress Safety System (GMDSS) – What You Must Know
Regulation 12 lists down the additional duties of the officer on radio communication equipment during a watch.
Related Read: Obsolete-yet-Famous Marine Jobs: Radio Officers
Regulation 13 gives the details of the energy source for all the radio communication equipment including emergency reserve source of power and battery power.
Related Read: 20 Points To Consider For Handling and Taking Care of Batteries On Ships
Regulation 14 and 15 gives the details of performance standards and maintenance required to be carried out on radiocommunication equipment.
Related Read: Daily, Monthly And Weekly Tests Of GMDSS Equipment On Board Ships
Regulation 16, 17 and 18 provide the need for radio personnel qualification and different records and logs which needs to be updated in the ship log system.
Related Read: Important Points For Logbook Keeping On Ships
SOLAS Chapter V
Safety of navigation: This chapter consists of total 35 regulations dealing with all the seagoing vessels of all sizes, from boats to VLCCs, and includes passage planning, navigation, distress signal etc.
Regulations 1 to 3 explains the “Application” of this chapter on the safety of navigation and the regulations also explains the “Definition” of different terminology which is used in the chapter and the objective and functional requirement of this chapter. Further, it includes the exemptional requirement to be granted by the administration to a complying ship.
Regulation 4 and 5 lists down different navigational and mineralogical service warnings which are essential for a navigating officer for safe passage plan.
Related Read: Important Points For Dealing With Navigational Warnings On Ships
Regulation 6, 7,8 and 9 focuses on services such as the ice patrol service for safe navigation in North Atlantic, search and rescue services (when receiving distress alert from the ship), usage of life-saving signals and hydrographic services (for the compilation of hydrographic data and publication) by the contracting government.
Related Read: IMO Collaborates In Worldwide Implementation Of Maritime Search And Rescue
Regulation 10 contains the details for the requirement of ships’ routeing system for safe and efficient navigation.
Related Read: IMO Adopts Key International Routing And Protection Measures For Bering Sea
Regulation 11 lists down the need of reporting system to contribute towards maritime and environmental safety, where the seagoing ship reports to the concerned authorised body.
Regulation 12 provides the requirement for Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) undertaken by the contracting government for safe navigation in the coastal area, channel, port vicinity and area of maritime traffic.
Related Read: What are Vessel Traffic Services?
Regulation 13 defines the role of the contracting government for an arrangement of establishment and operation of aids to navigation.
Related Read: Why Virtual Aids of Navigation Are Important For Ships?
Regulation 14 lists down the minimum manning requirement and crew performance for a seagoing ship
Regulation 15 gives details of bridge design and procedures along with the arrangement of navigation systems and equipment.
Related Read: 30 Types of Navigation Equipment and Resources Used Onboard Modern Ships
Regulation 16 and Regulation 17 provides the need for maintenance of navigation equipment and their electromagnetic compatibility.
Regulation 18 gives the terms for surveys, approval criteria and performance standard of navigational equipment and system including VDR.
Related Read: What Marine Communication Systems Are Used in the Maritime Industry?
Regulation 19 provides the requirement for carrying a navigational system and equipment onboard ship as per the date of construction and also as per the capacity of the vessel in gross tonnage. It also explains the requirement for Long Range Identification and Tracking of Ships.
Related Read: The Long Range Tracking and Identification (LRIT) System: Tracking and Monitoring Ships
Regulation 20 explains the requirement for Voyage Data Recorder on ships for assisting in causality investigations.
Related Read: Voyage Data Recorder (VDR) on a Ship Explained
Regulation 21 provides the details of the International Code of Signals which a radio installation on a ship should carry.
Regulation 22 talks about the visibility requirement from the ships’ bridge window and Regulation 23 explains the pilot transfer arrangement.
Related Read: Important Pilot Transfer Arrangements And SOLAS Requirements For Ships
Regulation 24 explains the use of heading and track control system when the ship is in restricted visibility or high traffic area.
Related Read: 10 Important Points Ship’s Officer On Watch Should Consider During Restricted Visibility
Regulation 25 and 26 lists down the regulatory requirement for the electrical power source, testing, and drills for steering gear systems.
Related Read: Procedure of Testing Steering Gears on Ship
Regulation 27 talks about the nautical charts and publication available onboard ship for passage and voyage.
Related Read: Understanding the Principles of Passage Planning
Regulation 28 provides the details of records to be kept for all the navigational activities by ship’s navigation officer.
Related Read: Different Entries To Be Made In Bridge Log Book of The Ship
Regulation 29 insist on the requirement for the ship’s officer to understand different life-saving signals used in distress. Regulation 30 lists the operational limitations of passenger ships regarding safe navigation.
Regulation 31, 32, 33 and 34 contain a requirement for the master of the ship on how to act in a dangerous situation by sending danger message (while encountering any dangerous navigation situation to the contracting government using a message or International code of Signal. It also includes the type of information which needs to be sent to the authorities.
Further, the regulation also explains the obligations/ procedures on providing assistance to the ship in danger and how to avoid such a situation which can become a danger. Regulation 35 strictly prohibits the use of distress signal for any other purpose other than explains in the above regulations.
Related Read: What is the Responsibility of the Master after Abandoning a Ship?
SOLAS Chapter VI
Carriage of Cargoes and Oil Fuel: This chapter defines storage and securing of different types of cargo and containers, but does not include oil and gas cargo. This chapter is further divided into 3 parts; Part A, Part B, and Part C.
Part A contains regulations 1 to Regulation 5. Regulation 1 explains the “Application” of this chapter and also explains the “Definition” of different terminology which is used in the chapter and the requirements to carry the solid cargo other than grain.
Regulation 2 tells about the information exchange to be done between the shipper and the master on the type of cargo being loaded.
Related Read: What is Ship-Shore Interface Management in the Shipping World?
Regulation 3 explains the need for Oxygen analyzer and other gas detection equipment for monitoring of those solid cargoes which emits toxic or flammable gases.
Regulation 4 describes the details of using pesticides on ship done for fumigation purpose.
Regulation 5 provides the information on stowing and securing of the cargo. It also lists down the requirement of MSDS for oil fuel carried on board ship. Further, it explains the requirement to prohibit the mixing of bulk liquid cargo and production process during sea voyages.
Related Read: Material Safety Data Sheet or MSDS Used on Ships
Part B of this chapter list down the special provision for carrying solid bulk cargoes and it consist of Regulation 6 and 7 which explains the procedure to accept a shipment and how to load, unload the stow such cargo.
Related Read: 9 Common Hazards Of Bulk Cargo On Ships
Part C focuses on the requirement for carriage of grains under Regulation 8 and 9 which provides the definitions of International Grain Code and other essential terms related to grains ailing with the criteria to carry grain cargoes on the ship.
Related Read: 23 Important Maritime Codes Used in the Shipping Industry
Solas Chapter VII
Carriage of dangerous goods: Defines the International Maritime Goods Code for storage and transportation of dangerous goods. This chapter is further divided into 4 parts; Part A, Part B, Part C and Part D.
Part A is provided with information on the carriage of dangerous goods in the packaged form under 7 regulations. Regulation 1, 2 and 3 explain the “Application” of this chapter and also explains the “Definition” of different terminology which is used in the chapter along with the requirements to carry dangerous goods in the packaged form.
Related Read: 8 Things Deck Officers Must Know While Handling Packaged IMDG Cargo
Regulation 7 is dedicated for Carriage of dangerous goods in a solid bulk form defining the terms used under this regulation along with the application of the terms. It further explains the documentation and stowage with segregation requirement for such type of cargoes. The reporting of the incident and other condition related to the dangerous goods carried in solid bulk form is also provided.
Related Read: A Guide To HAZMAT Cargo Loading On Ships
Part B of this chapter explains the details about construction and equipment for carrying dangerous liquid chemical in bulk. Regulation 8, 9 and 10 explain the Definition” of different terminology which is used in the chapter and “Application” of this chapter along with the requirements for chemical tankers which carry such cargoes.
Related Read: A Guide To Plan Stowage On Chemical Tankers
Part C of this chapter explains the details about construction and equipment for carrying liquified gas in bulk as cargo. Regulation 11, 12 and 113 tells the Definitions of different terminology which are used in the chapter and “Application” of gas ships along with the requirements for gas tankers which carry such cargoes.
SOLAS Chapter VIII
Nuclear ships: The code of safety for the nuclear-propelled ship is stated in this chapter.
This chapter consists of 12 regulations explaining the application, exemptions, approvals, and requirement (for reactor installations), Safety against radiation, safety assessment, operating manual, surveys and certifications, Controlling authority and steps in case of any causality due to radiation etc.
Related Read: Understanding Nuclear Marine Propulsion
SOLAS Chapter IX
Management for the Safe Operation of Ships
The International Safety Management code for ship owner and the operator is described clearly. Regulation 1 and 2 of this chapter explains the details about the “Application” of SOLAS Chapter 9 and also explains the “Definition” of different terminology which is used in the chapter.
Regulation 3 provides the requirement to comply with the ISM code followed by important certifications in Regulation 4, which includes DOC, SMC etc.
Related Read: How is ISM Code Implemented On Ships?
Regulation 5 and Regulation 6 list down the maintenance of conditions and verification & control respectively.
Related Read: What Is Safety Management System (SMS) On Ships?
SOLAS Chapter X
Safety measures for high-speed craft
This chapter is dedicated to high-speed crafts only, explaining the safety requirements and comprises of 3 regulations interpreting the Definitions of different terminology which are used in the chapter and “Application” of high-speed craft along with the requirements for high-speed crafts.
Related Read: Boats with a Difference: The High-Speed Crafts
SOLAS Chapter XI
This chapter is divided into two sections.
Section one, i.e. Chapter XI -1 deal with the Special measures to enhance maritime safety which includes Special and Enhanced survey for safe operation. The second section of this SOLAS chapter which is Chapter XI-2 list down the regulations for special rules to improve maritime security.
Chapter XI-1 consist of 7 regulations. Regulation 1 provides information about the authorization of a recognised organisation. Regulation 2 compiles the requirements for the enhanced survey for bulk carriers and oil tankers along with the harmonization of survey periods of ships which are not subjected to the ESP code.
Related Read: What is the Enhanced Survey Programme (ESP)?
Regulation 3 provides the details of the ship identification number and company cum owner identification number.
Related Read: Automatic Identification System (AIS): Integrating and Identifying Marine Communication Channels
Regulation 4 explains the role of Port state control on operational requirements.
Regulation 5 deals with the continuous synopsis record which is provided onboard as a historical overview of the ship information.
Related Read: What is Continuous Synopsis Record (CSR) of Ships?
Regulation 6 specifies the additional requirement for the investigation of marine causality and incidents.
Related Read: A Seafarer’s Role in Collecting Evidence During Maritime Accidents
Regulation 7 tells about the requirement for atmosphere testing instrument for enclosed spaces for measuring oxygen, flammable gases, H2S, Carbon mono oxide etc.
Related Read: IMO: Enclosed Space Ship Safety Rule Enters Into Force
Chapter XI-2 deals with maritime security measures which all the parties involved in a maritime trade need to follow; i.e. ship, port, ship owner, contracting government and authorities. This SOLAS chapter consists of 13 regulations, and Regulation 1 and 2 explain the Definition” of different terminology which is used in the chapter and the details about the “Application” of this chapter.
Regulation 3 focuses on the contracting government stating their obligation towards maritime security.
Regulation 4 lists down the requirement for companies and ships on how to comply with the ISPS code followed by Regulation 5 which deals with the specific responsibility of the companies towards maritime security.
Related Read: The ISPS Code For Ships – An Essential Quick Guide
Regulation 6 specifies the vital requirement for all seagoing ship about the Ship Security Alert System (SSAS).
Related Read: What is Ship Security Alert System (SSAS)?
Regulation 7 deals with the threats to the vessels which needs to be set as a security level by the contracting governments.
Related Read: What Are The Security Levels Under ISPS Code?
Regulation 8 lists down the discretion for the master for taking account of ship safety and security.
Regulation 9 explains about the compliance and control measures that a ship should exhibit in port and regulation 10 states the relevant requirements for port facilities under ISPS code.
Related Read: 10 Ways to Enhance Ship Security
Regulation 11 and 12 talks about the alternative and equivalent security arrangement by the contracting government and administration.
Regulation 13 deals with the different information that needs to be communicated to the ship and ship manager.
Related Read: What is Ship Security Assessment (SSA)?
SOLAS Chapter XII
Additional safety measures for bulk carriers: This chapter Includes safety requirement for above 150 meters length bulk carrier. It consists of 14 regulations.
Regulation 1,2 and 3 gives details about the “Definition” of different terminology which are used in the chapter and the details about the “Application” of this chapter, followed by the implementation schedule for the survey as per the date of construction.
Regulation 4 The damage stability requirements for bulk carriers are explained in this regulation.
Related Read: Ship Stability: Damaged Stability of Ships
Regulation 5 & 6 provides the details of structural strength and other structural requirements for bulk carrier ship.
Related Read: Understanding Design Of Bulk Carriers
Regulation 7 deals with the surveys and maintenance requirements of the bulk carriers followed by Regulation 8 which explains the information on compliance for bulk carriers.
Related Read: 9 New Aspects of IACS Harmonised Common Structural Rules (CSR) For Ships
Regulation 9 focuses on those bulk carrier ships which are unable to comply with regulation 4 because of the designing of cargo holds. Regulation 10 lists down the requirement for declaring the solid bulk cargo density.
Regulation 11 provides details about the loading instruments used for cargo loading on bulk carrier ships.
Related Read: 11 Steps to Enhance Safety of Bulk Carrier Ships
Regulation 12 lists down the terms for having water ingress alarm in holds, ballast space and other dry spaces in a bulk carrier ship.
Regulation 13 applies to all the bulk carriers regardless of their date of construction and explains the necessity of pumping systems to drain the ballast tanks.
Related Read: A Guide To Ballast Tanks On Ships
Regulation 14 focuses on the restrictions towards the bulk carrier ships from sailing with an empty cargo hold.
Related Read: 9 Common Hazards Of Bulk Cargo On Ships
Apart from the above SOLAS 12 Chapters, the below two are considered to be SOLAS new chapters which were added in recent years.
SOLAS Chapter XIII
Verification of Compliance: This chapter was adopted on 22 May 2014 which requires all the Contracting Party to undergo periodic audits by the approved organization following the audit standard to verify compliance with and implementation of the present Convention.
This chapter consists of regulation 1 to regulation 3 explaining the “Definition” of different terminologies which are used in the chapter and the details about the “Application” of this chapter, followed by the verification system for contracting government.
Related Read: Mandatory Audits And Other Amendments Enter Into Force On 1 January 2016
SOLAS Chapter XIV
Safety Measures for Ships Operating in Polar Waters – As the name suggest, the SOLAS chapter 14 deals with the ships that intend to operate within the Arctic and Antarctic areas and need to carry Polar Ship Certificate.
This Code entered into force on 1 January 2017 and explains the shipowners and ship managers about the steps to be taken to have their ships in compliance within the different categories. This is one of the latest chapter introduced within SOLAS in 2017.
It comprises of 4 Regulations starting from regulation 1 & 2 which gives the details about the definitions of the terminology used in this chapter and application of this code.
Related Read: The IMO Polar Code In Force, Beginning 1 January 2017: How To Comply
Regulation 3 explains the requirements for ships to which this chapter applies followed by regulation 4 which suggest the terms for alternative design and arrangement for vessels sailing in Arctic and Antarctic areas.
MARPOL 73/78
Just like SOLAS, which regulates the shipping industry to follow minimum standards to safeguard life at sea. MARPOL is another important convention which safeguards the marine environment against ship pollution. MAPOL and SOLAS are considered to be two effective safety and environmental protection tools of IMO.
MARPOL 73/78, since it came into force in 1973 and later revised by the protocol in 1978, ensures that shipping remains the least environmentally damaging modes of transport. It clearly highlights the points to ensure that the marine environment is preserved by the elimination of pollution by all harmful substance which can be discharged from the ship.
Related Read: 5 Instruments of International Maritime Organization (IMO) Every Seafarer Should Know
This marine environmental convention consists of six implemented annexes for controlling and eliminating of marine pollution.
Image Credits: ghanaports.gov.gh
They are as follows:
Annex I: Regulation for prevention of pollution by oil (October 1983).
Annex II: Regulations for control of pollution by Noxious Liquid Substance in bulk (April 1987).
Annex III: Regulation for prevention of pollution by harmful substance carried at sea in packaged form (July 1992).
Annex IV: Regulation for prevention of pollution by sewage from ships (Sep 2003).
Annex V: Regulation for prevention of pollution by Garbage from ships (Dec 1998).
Annex VI: Regulation for prevention of Air pollution from ships (May 2005).
They are as follows:
MARPOL Annex I
Regulation for the prevention of pollution by oil (October 1983).
This regulation was adopted on 2nd October 1983 to control and prevent any oil discharge from ship intentionally or accidentally. It comprises of 11 chapters which together contains 47 Regulations.
Chapter 1 gives a general description about MARPOL ANNEX I and consists of 5 regulations which explain the “Application” of this chapter in different types of the ship along with the “Definition” of different terminologies which are used in the chapter. The regulation may not apply to all types of ship hence a separate section of “Exceptions” and “Exemptions” is also provided. It also explains the condition where an administrator may allow alternative fittings, materials, appliances etc. to be installed on ships to fulfil this annex.
Chapter 2 deals with Surveys and Certifications requirement for all oil tanker ships of 150GT and other sips of 400 GT. And comprises of 5 regulations.
Related Read: How to Get Dangerous Cargo Endorsement Certificate?
Regulation 6 describes the requirement for different surveys to comply with MARPOL annex 1.
Regulation 7 provides the terms to issue or endorse the IOPP certificate to the ship post successful survey by the appropriate administration. Regulation 8 also describes how to issue or endorse the certificates by another contracting government, followed by Regulation 9 which tell the form of the certificate including languages such as English or official language of issuing country.
Regulation 10 explains the duration and validity of certificates and provide timelines for renewal of certificates.
Regulation 11 terms the authority of port state control under Annex 1 to inspect the ship for compliance.
Chapter 3 deals with the Requirements for Machinery spaces for all ships and list down the requirements under Regulation 12 to 17, so that the engine room and other machinery spaces are compliant with the MARPOL Annex 1.
Regulation 12 explains the requirement of storage tanks for oil residues produced on all types of the ship due to machinery operation and method to dispose of the oil residue. It further provides details to protect the fuel oil tanks for ships having fuel oil capacity 600m3 and above.
Related Read: List of Important Tanks on a Ship
Regulation 13 describes the requirement for standard discharge connection on a ship to dispose of oil residue from sludge and bilge tanks.
Regulation 14 The requirements of oil filtration equipment onboard ship for discharging engine room bilges or ballast water from fuel oil tanks is given in this regulation, followed by Regulation 15 which restricts the discharge of treated bilges in special areas.
Related Read: An Overview Of Sludge And Bilge Management Onboard Ships
Regulation 16 explains the requirement of segregating oil and water ballast which is carried in the fuel tank of the ship.
Related Read: A Guide To Ballast Tanks On Ships
Regulation 17 lists down the need for a compliant oil record book for machinery space in oil tankers of 150GT and above and other ships of 400 GT and above.
Chapter 4. deals with the Requirements of Cargo areas in an oil tanker ship listing down various regulation (Regulation 18 to 36).
Chapter 5 describes how to prevent pollution which can arise from an oil pollution incident. Regulation 37 which list the SOPEP or Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency plan provides the details.
Related Read: What is Ship Oil Pollution Emergency Plan (SOPEP)?
Chapter 6 lists the requirement for the reception facilities to which the ship will dispose of the oily bilge/ sludge to under Regulation 38 providing details of the facility outside and inside special areas.
Chapter 7 provides the special requirement for fixed or floating platform to comply with Annex 1 of MARPOL with Regulation 39.
Chapter 8 deals with the prevention of pollution which may happen during cargo oil in between tankers at sea also known as Ship to Ship Transfer (STS). It comprises of 3 regulation from 40 to 42.
Related Read: What is Ship-to-Ship Transfer (STS) and Requirements to Carry Out the Same?
Regulation 40 provides the scope of application for this chapter and Regulation 41 lists down the rules on safety and environmental protection during the STS operation, followed by Regulation 42 which tells the notifications which need to be provided by the ship to port state and all the other parties involved in the operation.
Related Read: 7 Important Points For Safe Lightering Operations On Ships
Chapter 9 carries the details for the special requirement for the use of carriage of oils in the Antarctica area with Regulation 43.
Chapter 10 deals with the Verification of compliance with the provision of this convention under Regulation 44 and 45, providing details of the application and the process for verification of compliance.
Chapter 11 list down the important requirement on international code for ships operating in Polar waters under Regulation 46 and 47. Regulation 46 lists down the definition for this annexe followed by Regulation 47 for application and requirement for the ships sailing in polar waters.
MARPOL Annex II
Regulations for the control of pollution by Noxious Liquid Substance in bulk (April 1987).
This Annex was adopted on 6th of April 1987 which deals with the control and prevent pollution due to the noxious liquid substance in bulk, intentionally or accidentally. It comprises of 10 chapters which together contains 22 Regulations.
Chapter 1 gives general details on MARPOL ANNEX II and consists of 5 regulations providing the “Definition” of different terminologies which are used in the chapter and explains the “Application” of this chapter in different types of ship (Chemical tankers etc.). The regulation may not be applicable to all types of a ship; hence a separate section of “Exceptions” and “Exemptions” is also provided. It also explains the condition where an administrator may allow alternative fittings, materials, appliances etc. to be installed on ships to fulfill this annex.
Related Read: Different Types of Tankers: Extensive Classification of Tanker Ships
Chapter 2 provides the details of different categories of Noxious liquid substance under regulation 6.
Chapter 3 list down the need for surveys and certification with 4 regulations from regulation 7 to 10. Regulation 7 deals with the surveys and certifications needed by chemical tanker following the provision of the International Bulk Chemical code.
Regulation 8 details the need for different surveys for the ships carrying noxious liquid substances in bulk followed by issuing and endorsing of the certificate under Regulation 9. The duration and validity of the certificate are provided in Regulation 10.
Chapter 4 specifies the Design, Construction, arrangement, and equipment for ships carrying Noxious cargo in bulk under regulation 11, followed by Regulation 12 which provides the details of pumping, piping, unloading arrangement and slop tanks.
Chapter 5 carries 3 regulation from 13 to 15 for providing the details of operational discharge of residues of noxious liquid substances. Regulation 13 lists the need for control of discharges of Noxious liquid substance residues.
Regulation 14 and 15 provide the details of Procedure and arrangement manual and Cargo record book which needs to be filled by the ships’ officers.
Chapter 6 which consist of Regulation 16 describe the role of government and authorised parties such as port state control on measures of control to check, survey and assess the ships to carry the cargo under MARPOL Annex II.
Related Read: A List of Inspections And Surveys Deck Officers On Ships Should Be Aware Of
Chapter 7 deals with Prevention of Pollution arising from an incident involving noxious liquid substance and consist of Regulation 17 giving the details of Shipboard pollution emergency plan for noxious liquid substances.
Related Read: IMO: Compensation Regime For Hazardous And Noxious Cargoes A Step Closer
Chapter 8 lists the requirement for the reception facilities to which the ship can dispose of the residues and mixture generated from noxious liquid substances under Regulation 38 providing details of the facility and terminal unloading arrangements.
Chapter 9 deals with the Verification of compliance with the provision of this convention under Regulation 19 and 20, providing details of the application and the process for verification of compliance.
Chapter 10 list down the important requirement on international code for ships operating in Polar waters under Regulation 21 and 22. Regulation 21 lists down the definition for this annex followed by Regulation 22 for application and requirement for the ships sailing in polar waters.
Related Read: How The IMO Polar Code Supports Safe And Eco-Friendly Shipping
MARPOL Annex III
Regulation for prevention of pollution by harmful substance carried at sea in packaged form (July 1992).
This Annex deals with those substances which are hazardous in nature and carried in packaged cargo. The identification of such material is provided in the IMDG Code. The MARPOL Annex III came into force on 1 July 1992 and comprised of 2 Chapters containing 11 regulations.
Related Read: What is Ithe international Maritime Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG)?
Chapter 1 gives a general details on MARPOL ANNEX III and consist of 9 regulations.
Regulations 1 & 2 explains the “Definition” of different terminologies which are used in the chapter and the “Application” of this chapter in different types of ships which are carrying Hazardous goods.
Regulation 3 & 4 lists down the requirement of packaging and Marking/labelling of the packages carrying IMDG cargoes.
Regulation 5 provides the details of the documentation which are needed by the ship which is carrying hazardous material under MARPOL Annex 3
Related Read: A Guide To HAZMAT Cargo Loading On Ships
The storage requirement and quantity limitations for carrying harmful substances in bulk are provided under Regulation 6 & 7.
Regulation 8 lists down the exceptions which a ship carrying harmful cargo in bulk can have under various circumstances.
The authorisation of port-state control on the operational requirement of ships carrying such substance under MARPOL Annex III is listed in Regulation 9.
Chapter 2 deals with the Verification of compliance with the provision of this convention providing details of the application and the process for verification of compliance under Regulation 10 and 11.
MARPOL Annex IV
Regulation for the prevention of pollution by sewage from ships (Sep 2003).
Entered into force on 27 September 2003, this Annex focuses on prevention of sewage pollution from ships. It has 7 Chapters comprising of 18 Regulations.
Chapter 1 gives a general description about MARPOL ANNEX IV and consist of 3 regulations which explains the “Definition” of different terminologies which are used in the chapter and “Application” of this chapter in different types of ships. The regulation may not be applicable to all types of ship hence a separate section of “Exceptions” is also provided.
Related Read: MARPOL ANNEX 4 Explained: How to Prevent Pollution from Sewage at Sea
Chapter 2 list down the need for surveys and certification with 5 regulations from regulation 4 to 8. Regulation 4 deals with the surveys to be done on ships implicated by this Annex. Regulation 4 & 5 provide the details for issue or endorsement of certificates by the administration and by another government. Regulation 7 & 8 gives details of form, duration, and validity of the sewage pollution prevention certificate.
Chapter 3 provides the need of having Equipment and control of sewage discharge from the ship. Regulation 9 under this chapter provides details of sewage system requirement on ships followed by Regulation 10 and 11 for having a standard sewage discharge connection to transfer sewage to port facilities and discharge of sewage at sea within and outside special areas.
Related Read: Sewage Treatment Plant on Ships Explained
Chapter 4 consist of 2 regulations (12 & 13) with the details of the reception facilities requirement. Regulation 12 provides the details to the government agencies regarding the compliance to have a reception facility and Regulation 13 lists down the requirement of reception facilities for Passenger ships in special areas.
Related Read: Cruise Ship Sewage Discharges Into The Baltic Sea To Be Banned
Chapter 5 which consist of Regulation 14 describe the role of government and authorised parties such as port state control on measures of control to check, survey and assess the ships under MARPOL Annex IV.
Chapter 6 deals with the Verification of compliance with the provision of this convention providing details of the application and the process for verification of compliance under Regulation 15 and 16.
Chapter 7 list down the important requirement on international code for ships operating in Polar waters under Regulation 17 and 18. Regulation 17 lists down the definition for this annex followed by Regulation 18 for application and requirement for the ships sailing in polar waters.
MARPOL Annex V
Regulation for the prevention of pollution by Garbage from ships (Dec 1998).
This annexe deals with the garbage produced onboard ships and ways to prevent pollution from the same. It was enforced on 31 December 1988, having 3 Chapters with 14 Regulations.
Chapter 1 gives general details on MARPOL ANNEX II and consists of 10 regulations providing the “Definition” of different terminologies which are used in the chapter under Regulation 1 and explains the “Application” of this chapter in different types of ship Regulation 2.
Related Read: ICS Publishes New Edition Of Industry Guidance On Garbage Management Plans
Regulation 3 lists down the details of the general prohibition on the discharge of garbage at sea followed by Regulation 4 for the discharge of garbage outside special areas.
Regulation 5 specifies the special requirements for the discharge of garbage from fixed and floating platforms. The requirement for discharge of garbage in the special area is given under Regulation 6.
Regulation 7 & 8 describes the receptions facilities exception and requirements including those who are inside the special areas.
Regulation 9 consist role of port-state control on measures of control to check, survey and assess the ships under MARPOL Annex V.
Regulation 10 deals with the need for Garbage Management Plan (GMP) including record books and placards.
Related Read: What is Garbage Management Plan (GMP) on a Ship?
Chapter 2 deals with the Verification of compliance with the provision of this convention under Regulation 11 and 12
Chapter 3 list down the important requirement on international code for ships operating in Polar waters under Regulation 13 and 14. Regulation 13 lists down the definition for the purpose of this annex followed by Regulation 14 for application and requirement for the ships sailing in polar waters.
MARPOL Annex VI
Regulation for prevention of Air pollution from ships (May 2005).
This MARPOL Annex deals explicitly with ways to prevent air pollutions from ships. It came into force on 19th May 2005 having five chapters with 25 Regulations.
Chapter 1 gives a general description about MARPOL ANNEX VI and consists of 4 regulations which explain the “Application” of this chapter in different types of the ship along with the “Definition” of different terminologies which are used in the chapter. The regulation may not apply to all types of ship hence a separate section of “Exceptions” and “Exemptions” is also provided. It also explains the condition where an administrator may allow alternative fittings, materials, appliances etc. to be installed on ships to fulfil this annex.
Chapter 2 lists the survey, certification, and means of control dealing with air pollution from the ship. It has 7 Regulation with Regulation 5 explaining the need of different surveys for the vessel having the arrangement to prevent air pollution followed by issuing and endorsing of International Air Pollution Prevention (IOPP) certificate and International Energy Efficiency Certificates (IEEC) in Regulation 6.
Regulation 7 provides the details for issue or endorsement of certificates by another party followed by the forms of certificates and statement of compliance related to fuel oil consumption reporting in Regulations 8 for both IOPP and IEEC. The details for the validity of these certificates are provided in Regulation 9.
Related Read: Important MARPOL Amendments Enter Into Force
Regulation 10 terms the authority of port state control under Annex VI to inspect the ship for compliance.
Regulation 11 explains how the administration and authorised party can detect ships for the violation and how to enforce this annexe.
Chapter 3 deals with the requirements for control of emissions from ships and consist of 7 Regulations, starting with the details of ozone-depleting substances in Regulation12 such as in the refrigerant used on ships.
Related Read: What are Ozone Depleting Substances on Ships?
Regulation 13 gives a brief about Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) with different Tiers (Tier I, II and III) in and outside the emission control areas.
Related Read: What is Nitrogen Oxides or NOx air pollution from Ships?
Regulation 14 gives a brief about Sulphur Oxides (SOx) with the requirement for the quantity of sulphur in the fuel oil as per the year, in and outside emission controlled areas.
Related Read: What is Sulphur Oxides or SOx air pollution from Ships?
The emissions of Volatile Organic Compound from the oil tankers are taken into account in Regulation 15 providing the details to comply with the requirements.
Regulation 16 talks about the shipboard incineration operations and when the incineration is allowed.
Related Read: Construction and Working of Waste Oil Incinerator
Regulation 17 describes the receptions facilities requirements for disposing of ozone-depleting substance, residue from exhaust cleaning etc.
To comply with the exhaust emission requirements, proper fuel oil is made available to burn on ships, whose condition is described in Regulation 18.
Chapter 4 provides the Regulation on Energy Efficiency on Ships having Regulations 19 to 23. Regulation 19 talks about the application of this chapter on ships of 400GT and above.
Related Read: How to Improve Energy Efficiency of Ships?
Regulation 20 and 21 provide the details of Attained Energy Efficiency Design Index (Attained EEDI) and Required EEDI.
Related Read: Energy Efficiency Management in the Maritime Industry
The Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) requirements, which should be kept onboard, is provided in Regulation 22. Further, the requirement for fuel oil consumption data collection and reporting to the administration is also listed in this regulation.
Related Read: What is Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan?
Regulation 23 talks about the technical cooperation between different parties (Administration, Government agency, Shipping company etc.) to improve the energy efficiency of ships.
Chapter 5 deals with the Verification of compliance with the provision of this convention under Regulation 24 and 25.
Thus, SOLAS and MARPOL conventions stand as two solid pillars that support the maritime industry by protecting the most important issues – marine pollution prevention and safety of human life.
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