#UKmaritimelegislation

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UK Implements SOLAS Amendments for Safer Seas

Keeping Pace with International Maritime Obligations

Ambulatory Reference Provisions Ensure Compliance The UK is committed to aligning its maritime regulations with international standards. To achieve this, domestic maritime secondary legislation includes ambulatory reference provisions. These provisions ensure that when UK law refers to international instruments like conventions, it always points to the most up-to-date versions. This approach allows the UK to stay current with its international maritime obligations.  

SOLAS: Safeguarding Maritime Safety

SOLAS Amendments Enhance Safety The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) plays a pivotal role in ensuring maritime safety. It is continually reviewed and amended by the member states of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to adapt to new technologies and enhance safety measures. SOLAS follows a four-year cycle for amendments.   Chapter II-1: Ship Construction and Safety for Low-Flashpoint Fuels Safety Enhancements for New Ships Amendments to SOLAS chapter II-1 primarily impact ship construction and safety for vessels using low-flashpoint fuels. Notable changes include higher loading limits for liquefied gas fuel tanks, improved fuel distribution requirements, enhanced explosion relief systems, and upgraded fire protection for fuel storage spaces. Additionally, fuel preparation rooms with potential ignition sources must now have fixed fire-extinguishing systems. These amendments aim to prevent accidents and improve safety.   Other Amendments in Chapter II-1 Apart from fuel-related changes, SOLAS chapter II-1 also includes amendments concerning towing and mooring equipment, vessel stability, subdivision, watertight and weathertight integrity, and stability management. These changes introduce specific requirements for the design of mooring arrangements, equipment, and fittings for new ships, enhancing safety in towing and mooring operations.   Explanatory Notes and Editorial Amendments The IMO has developed explanatory notes for the technical regulations in SOLAS chapter II-1 to improve understanding and compliance. Additionally, editorial amendments have been made to requirements related to the emergency source of electrical power in passenger and cargo ships.  

Chapter II-2: Fire Protection, Detection, and Prevention

Enhancing Fire Safety SOLAS chapter II-2 focuses on fire protection, detection, and prevention. One significant amendment eliminates the need for costly isolators in fire detector units on cargo ships and passenger ship cabin balconies, reducing expenses while maintaining safety. The wording of requirements for inert gas fixed firefighting systems has also been adjusted for clarity and effectiveness.  

Chapter III: Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements

Improving Lifeboat Regulations SOLAS chapter III addresses life-saving appliances and arrangements on ships. Amendments to the International Life-Saving Appliances Code (LSA Code) have removed the requirement for lifeboats with two independent propulsion systems to carry oars, except for free-fall lifeboats. Additionally, certain lighter ships can now launch and recover reserve rescue boats manually under specific conditions. Furthermore, the requirement for free-fall lifeboats to be launched and towed at speeds not exceeding 5 knots in calm water has been removed.  

Survival Craft Embarkation and Launching Arrangements

Enhanced Safety Measures Amendments to SOLAS chapter III also pertain to survival craft embarkation and launching arrangements, specifically for cargo ships with a gross tonnage of 20,000 and above. These amendments now apply to davit-launched lifeboats, ensuring safety during emergencies.  

Chapter IV: Radiocommunications

Modernizing Maritime Communications Chapter IV of SOLAS deals with radiocommunications and the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). In an effort to modernize communications, we have removed obsolete requirements and updated guidance. Notably, two-way distress alerting radios now require automatic inclusion of the ship's position. In cases of navigation receiver malfunction, sailors must manually update the ship's position on the radio every four hours.  

Chapter X: High-Speed Craft Codes

Standards for High-Speed Craft Chapter X of SOLAS addresses the High-Speed Craft Codes for seagoing commercial high-speed craft like hovercraft, catamarans, and hydrofoils. We have made changes in the requirements for life-saving radiocommunication appliances, aligning them with SOLAS chapter IV.  

Conclusion

These amendments to SOLAS represent a significant step forward in enhancing the safety of merchant ships and life at sea. By adopting these changes, the UK demonstrates its commitment to complying with international maritime obligations and ensuring the well-being of those at sea.   Sources: THX News, Department for Transport & Guy Opperman MP. Read the full article