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    SOLAS Chapter III, IV & V Life-saving appliances and arrangements

    Minggu, 26 Maret 2023, 12:43 WIB Last Updated 2023-03-27T07:30:21Z
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    CHAPTER III

    Life-saving appliances and arrangements

    PART A-GENERAL

    Regulation 1

    Application

    1 Unless expressly provided otherwise, this chapter shall apply to ships the keels of which are laid or which are at a similar stage of construction on or after 1 July 1998.

    2 For the purpose of this chapter the term a similar stage of construction means the stage at which:

    .1 construction identifiable with a specific ship begins;and

    .2 assembly of that ship has commenced comprising at least 50 tonnes or 1% of the estimated mass of all structural material, whichever is less.

    3 For the purpose of this chapter:

    .1 the expression ships constructed means ships the keels of which are laid or which are at a similar stage of construction ;

    .2 the expression all ships means ships constructed before, on or after 1 July 1998; the expressions all passenger ships and all cargo ships shall be construed accordingly;

    .3 a cargo ship, whenever built, which is converted to a passenger ship shall be treated as a passenger ship constructed on the date on which such a conversion commences.

    4 For ships constructed before 1 July 1998, the Administration shall:( Replaced by Res.MSC.421(98))

    .1 ensure that, subject to the provisions of paragraph 4.2, the requirements which are applicable under chapter III of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, in force prior to 1 July 1998 to new or existing ships as

    prescribed by that chapter are complied with;

    .2 ensure that when life-saving appliances or arrangements on such ships are replaced or such ships undergo repairs, alterations or modifications of a major character which involve replacement of, or any addition to, their existing lifesaving

    appliances or arrangements, such life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, comply with the requirements of this chapter. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is

    replaced without replacing its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced; and

    .3 ensure that the requirements of regulations 30.3 and 37.3.9 are complied with.

    Refer to IACS UI SC226 IACS Unified Interpretations (UI) for the application of SOLAS regulations to conversions of Single Hull Tanker to Double Hull Tanker or Bulk Carrier/Ore Carrier

    5 Notwithstanding paragraph 4.2, for all ships, not later than the first scheduled dry-docking after 1 July 2014, but not later than 1 July 2019, lifeboat on-load release mechanisms not complying with paragraphs 4.4.7.6.4 to 4.4.7.6.6 of the

    Code shall be replaced with equipment that complies with the Code.*

    * Refer to the Guidelines for evaluation and replacement of lifeboat release and retrieval systems (MSC.1/Circ.1392).

    Refer to MSC.1/Circ.1445 CLARIFICATION OF THE TERM "FIRST SCHEDULED DRY-DOCKING" AS CONTAINED IN SOLAS REGULATION III/1.5, AS AMENDED BY RESOLUTION MSC.317(89)

    ( added by Res.MSC.317(89))

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 2

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Regulation 2

    Exemptions

    1 The Administration may, if it considers that the sheltered nature and conditions of the voyage are such as to render the application of any specific requirements of this chapter unreasonable or unnecessary, exempt from those

    requirements individual ships or classes of ships which, in the course of their voyage, do not proceed more than 20 miles from the nearest land.

    2 In the case of passenger ships which are employed in special trades for the carriage of large numbers of special trade passengers, such as the pilgrim trade, the Administration, if satisfied that it is impracticable to enforce compliance with

    the requirements of this chapter, may exempt such ships from those requirements, provided that such ships comply fully with the provisions of :

    .1 the rules annexed to the Special Trade Passenger Ships Agreement, 1971;and

    .2 the rules annexed to the Protocol on Space Requirements for Special Trade Passenger Ships, 1973.

    Title SOLAS 2016 Amend (96th) / Chapter III / Reg. 3

    Effective Date 1-1-2020

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2020

    Note New installation and replacement of life-saving appliances or arrangement, in so far as in reasonable and practicable, comply with the New requirements according to

    its installation or replacement date.

    Regulation 3

    Definitions

    For the purpose of this chapter, unless expressly provided otherwise:

    1 "Anti-exposure suit" is a protective suit designed for use by rescue boat crews and marine evacuation system parties.

    2 "Certificated person" is a person who holds a certificate of proficiency in survival craft issued under the authority of, or recognized as valid by, the Administration in accordance with the requirements of the International Convention on

    Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, in Force;or a person who holds a certificate issued or recognized by the Administration of a State not a Party to that Convention for the same purpose as the convention

    certificate.

    3 "Detection" is the determination of the location of survivors or survival craft.

    4 "Embarkation ladder" is the ladder provided at survival craft embarkation stations to permit safe access to survival craft after launching.

    5 "Float-free launching" is that method of launching a survival craft whereby the craft is automatically released from a sinking ship and is ready for use.

    6 "Free-fall launching" is that method of launching a survival craft whereby the craft with its complement of persons and equipment on board is released and allowed to fall into the sea without any restraining apparatus.

    7 "Immersion suit" is a protective suit which reduces the body heatless of a person wearing it in cold water.

    8 "Inflatable appliance" is an appliance which depends upon non-rigid, gas-filled chambers for buoyancy and which is normally kept uninflated until ready for use.

    9 "Inflated appliance" is an appliance which depends upon non-rigid, gas-filled chambers for buoyancy and which is kept inflated and ready for use at all times.

    10 "International Life-Saving Appliance(LSA) Code"(referred to as "the Code" in this chapter) means the International Life-Saving Appliance(LSA) Code adopted by the Maritime Safety Committee of the Organization by resolution

    MSC.48(66), as it may be amended by the Organization, provided that such amendments are adopted, brought into force and take effect in accordance with the provisions of article VIII of the present Convention concerning the amendment

    procedures applicable to the Annex other than chapter I.

    11 "Launching appliance or arrangement" is a means of transferring a survival craft or rescue boat from its stowed position safely to the water.

    12 "Length" is 96% of the total length on a waterline at 85% of the least moulded depth measured from the top of the keel, or the length from the fore-side of the stem to the axis of the rudder stock on that waterline, if that be greater. In

    ships designed with a rake of keel the waterline on which this is measured shall be parallel to the designed waterline.

    13 "Lightest sea-going condition" is the loading condition with the ship on even keel, without cargo, with 10% stores and fuel remaining and in the case of a passenger ship with the full number of passengers and crew and their luggage.

    Refer to MSC.1/Circ.1468 Unified Interpretation of Paragraph 1.1.4 of the LSA Code

    Refer to IACS UI SC248 Greatest Launching Height for a Free-Fall Lifeboat (LSA Code 1.1.4)

    14 "Marine evacuation system" is an appliance for the rapid transfer of persons from the embarkation deck of a ship to a floating survival craft.

    15 "Moulded depth"

    .1 The moulded depth is the vertical distance measured from the top of the keel to the top of the freeboard deck beam a side. In wood and composite ships the distance is measured from the lower edge of the keel rabbet. Where the form

    at the lower part of the midship section is of a hollow character, or where thick garboards are fitted, the distance is measured from the point where the line of the flat of the bottom continued inwards cuts the side of the keel.

    .2 In ships having rounded gunwales, the moulded depth shall be measured to the point of intersection of the moulded lines of the deck and side shell plating, the lines extending as though the gunwale were of angular design.

    .3 Where the freeboard deck is stepped and the raised part of the deck extends over the point at which the moulded depth is to be determined, the moulded depth shall be measured to a line of reference extending from the lower part of

    the deck along a line parallel with the raised part.

    16 "Novel life-saving appliance or arrangement" is a life-saving appliance or arrangement which embodies new features not fully covered by the provisions of this chapter or the Code but which provides an equal or higher standard of safety.

    17 "Positive stability" is the ability of a craft to return to its original position after the removal of a heeling moment.

    18 "Recovery time" for a rescue boat is the time required to raise the boat to a position where persons on board can disembark to the deck of the ship. Recovery time includes the time required to make preparations for recovery on board

    the rescue boat such as passing and securing a painter, connecting the rescue boat to the launching appliance, and the time to raise the rescue boat. Recovery time does not include the time needed to lower the launching appliance into

    position to recover the rescue boat.

    19 "Rescue boat" is a boat designed to rescue persons in distress and to marshal survival craft.

    20 "Retrieval" is the safe recovery of survivors.

    21 "Ro-ro passenger ship" means a passenger ship with ro-ro cargo spaces or special category spaces as defined in regulation II-2/3.

    22 "Short international voyage" is an international voyage in the course of which a ship is not more than 200 miles from a port or place in which the passengers and crew could be placed in safety. Neither the distance between the last port

    of call in the country in which the voyage begins and the final port of destination nor the return voyage shall exceed 600 miles. The final port of destination is the last port of call in the scheduled voyage at which the ship commences its

    return voyage to the country in which the voyage began.

    23 "Survival craft" is a craft capable of sustaining the lives of persons in distress from the time of abandoning the ship.

    24 "Thermal protective aid" is a bag or suit made of waterproof material with low thermal conductances.

    25 Requirements for maintenance, thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair means the Requirements for maintenance, thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair of lifeboats and rescue boats,

    launching appliances and release gear, adopted by the Maritime Safety Committee of the Organization by resolution MSC.402(96), as may be amended by the Organization, provided that such amendments are adopted, brought into force

    and take effect in accordance with the provisions of article VIII of the present Convention concerning the amendment procedures applicable to the annex other than chapter I.( Added by Res.MSC.404(96))

    Title SOLAS 2006 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 4

    Effective Date 1-7-2010

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2010

    Note

    - Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required

    to comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without

    replacing its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    Regulation 4

    Evaluation, testing and approval of life-saving appliances and arrangements

    1 Except as provided in paragraphs 5 and 6, life-saving appliances and arrangements required by this chapter shall be approved by the Administration.

    2 Before giving approval to life-saving appliances and arrangements, the Administration shall ensure that such life-saving appliances and arrangements:

    .1 are tested, to confirm that they comply with the requirements of this chapter and the Code, in accordance with the recommendations of the Organization*;or

    * Refer to the Recommendation on Testing of Life-Saving Appliances adopted by the Organization by resolution A.689(17). For life-saving appliances installed on board on or after 1 July 1999, refer to the Revised Recommendations on

    testing of life-saving appliances adopted by the Maritime Safety Committee of the Organization by resolution MSC.81(70)

    .2 have successfully undergone, to the satisfaction of the Administration, tests which are substantially equivalent to those specified in those recommendations.

    3 Before giving approval to novel life-saving appliances or arrangements, the Administration shall ensure that such:

    .1 appliances provide safety standards at least equivalent to the requirements of this chapter and the Code and have been evaluated and tested based on the guidelines developed by the Organization*; or

    * Refer to the Code of Practice for the Evaluation, Testing and Acceptance of Prototype Novel Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements adopted by the Organization by resolution A.520(13).

    .2 arrangements have successfully undergone an engineering analysis, evaluation and approval in accordance with regulation 38.

    ( Replaced by Res.MSC.216(82) )

    4 Procedures adopted by the Administration for approval shall also include the conditions whereby approval would continue or would be withdrawn.

    5 Before accepting life-saving appliances and arrangements that have not been previously approved by the Administration, the Administration shall be satisfied that life-saving appliances and arrangements comply with the requirements of

    this chapter and the Code.

    6 Life-saving appliances required by this chapter for which detailed specifications are not included in the Code shall be to the satisfaction of the Administration.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 5

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Note

    - Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required

    to comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without

    replacing its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    Regulation 5

    Production tests

    The Administration shall require life-saving appliances to be subjected to such production tests as are necessary to ensure that the life-saving appliances are manufactured to the same standard as the approved prototype.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 6.1

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    PART B-REQUIREMENTS FOR SHIPS AND

    LIFE-SAVING APPLIANCES

    SECTION I-PASSENGER SHIPS AND CARGO SHIPS

    Regulation 6

    Communications

    1 Paragraph 2 applies to all passenger ships and to all cargo ships of 300 gross tonnage and upwards.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 6.2.1

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    2 Radio life-saving appliances

    2.1 Two-way VHF radiotelephone apparatus

    2.1.1 At least three two-way VHF radiotelephone apparatus shall be provided on every passenger ship and on every cargo ship of 500 gross tonnage and upwards. At least two two-way VHF radiotelephone apparatus shall be provided

    on every cargo ship of 300 gross tonnage and upwards but less than 500 gross tonnage. Such apparatus shall conform to performance standards not inferior to those adopted by the Organization.* If a fixed twoway VHF

    radiotelephone apparatus is fitted in a survival craft it shall conform to performance standards not inferior to those adopted by Organization.*

    * Refer to the Performance Standards for Survival Craft Two-Way VHF Radiotelephone Apparatus, adopted by the Organization by resolution A.809(19), as it may be amended, annex 1 or annex 2 as applicable, and resolution

    MSC.149(77).

    2.1.2 Two-way VHF radiotelephone apparatus provided on board ships prior to 1 February 1992 and not complying fully with the performance standards adopted by the Organization may be accepted by the Administration until 1

    February 1999 provided the Administration is satisfied that are compatible with approved two-way VHF radiotelephone apparatus.

    Title SOLAS 2008 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 6.2.2

    Effective Date 1-1-2010

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2010

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note - Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required

    to comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    2.2 Search and rescue locating devices

    At least one search and rescue locating device shall be carried on each side of every passenger ship and of every cargo ship of 500 gross tonnage and upwards. At least one search and rescue locating device shall be carried on every

    cargo ship of 300 gross tonnage and upwards but less than 500 gross tonnage. Such search and rescue locating devices shall conform to the applicable performance standards not inferior to those adopted by the Organization*. The

    search and rescue locating devices** shall be stowed in such location that they can be rapidly placed in any survival craft other than the liferaft or liferafts required by regulation 31.1.4. Alternatively one search and rescue locating device

    shall be stowed in each survival craft other than those required by regulation 31.1.4. On ships carrying at least two search and rescue locating devices and equipped with free-fall lifeboats one of the search and rescue locating devices

    shall be stowed in a free-fall lifeboat and the other located in the immediate vicinity of the navigation bridge so that it can be utilized on board and ready for transfer to any of the other survival craft.

    * Refer to the Recommendation on performance standards for survival craft radar transponders for use in search and rescue operations, adopted by the Organization by resolution MSC.247(83) (A.802(19)), as amended) and the

    Recommendation on performance standards for survival craft AIS Search and Rescue transmitter (AIS SART), adopted by the Organization by resolution MSC.246(83).

    ** One of these search and rescue locating devices may be the search and rescue locating device required by regulation IV/7.1.3.

    ( Replaced by Res.MSC.256(84) )

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 6.3

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Note Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    3 Distress flares

    Not less than 12 rocket parachute flares, complying with the requirements of section 3.1 of the Code, shall be carried and be stowed on or near the navigation bridge.

    Title SOLAS 2006 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 6.4

    Effective Date 1-7-2008

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2008

    Note - Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required

    to comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    4 On-board communications and alarm systems

    4.1 An emergency means comprised of either fixed or portable equipment or both shall be provided for two-way communications between emergency control stations, muster and embarkation stations and strategic positions on board.

    4.2 A general emergency alarm system complying with the requirements of paragraph 7.2.1 of the Code shall be provided and shall be used for summoning passengers and crew to muster stations and to initiate the actions included in

    the muster list. The system shall be supplemented by either a public address system complying with the requirements of paragraph 7.2.2 of the Code or other suitable means of communication. Entertainment sound systems shall

    automatically be turned off when the general emergency alarm system is activated.

    Refer to MSC.1/Circ.1418 GUIDELINES FOR THE DESIGN AND INSTALLATION OF A VISIBLE ELEMENT TO THE GENERAL EMERGENCY ALARM ON PASSENGER SHIPS

    4.3 The general emergency alarm system shall be audible throughout all the accommodation and normal crew working spaces. On passenger ships, the system shall also be audible on all open decks. ( Replaced

    by Res.MSC.216(82))

    4.4 On ships fitted with a marine evacuation system communication between the embarkation station and the platform or the survival craft shall be ensured.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 6.5

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note

    - With respect to passenger ships constructed before 1 July 1997 the requirements of para. 5.2 and 5.4, subject to the provisions of para. 5.5, shall apply.

    - Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required

    to comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    5 Public address systems on passenger ships

    5.1 In addition to the requirements of regulation II-2/40.5 or regulation II-2/ 41-2*, as appropriate, and of paragraph 6.4.2, all passenger ships shall be fitted with a public address system. With respect to passenger ships constructed

    before 1 July 1997 the requirements of paragraphs 5.2 and 5.4, subject to the provisions of paragraph 5.5, shall apply not later than the date of the first periodical survey after 1 July 1997.

    * These relate to the chapter II-2 in force before 1 July 2002. The equivalent for each in the amended chapter II-2 is 12.3.

    5.2 The public address system shall be clearly audible above the ambient noise in all spaces, prescribed by paragraph 7.2.2.1 of the Code, and shall be provided with an override function controlled from one location on the navigation

    bridge and such other places on board as the Administration deems necessary, so that all emergency messages will be broadcast if any loudspeaker in the spaces concerned has been switched off, its volume has been turned down or the

    public address system is used for other purposes.

    5.3 On passenger ships constructed on or after 1 July 1997:

    .1 the public address system shall have at least two loops which shall be sufficiently separated throughout their length and have two separate and independent amplifier s;and

    .2 the public address system and its performance standards shall be approved by the Administration having regard to the recommendations adopted by the Organization.**

    ** Refer to MSC/Circ. 808, Recommendation on performance standards for public address systems on passenger ships, including cabling.

    5.4 The public address system shall be connected to the emergency source of electrical power required by regulation II-1/42.2.2.

    5.5 Ships constructed before 1 July 1997 which are already fitted with the public address system approved by the Administration which complies substantially with those required by paragraphs 5.2 and 5.4 and paragraph 7.2.2.1 of the

    Code are not required to change their system.

    Title SOLAS 2006 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 7

    Effective Date 1-7-2010

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2010

    Note

    - Refer to MSC.1/Circ.1304 for GUIDANCE FOR APPLICATION OF SOLAS REGULATION III/7, AS AMENDED BY RESOLUTION MSC.201(81).

    - Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required

    to comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without

    replacing its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    Regulation 7

    Personal life-saving appliances

    1 Lifebuoys

    1.1 Lifebuoys complying with the requirements of paragraph 2.1.1 of the Code shall be:

    .1 so distributed as to be readily available on both sides of the ship and as far as practicable on all open decks extending to the ship's side;at least one shall be placed in the vicinity of the stern;and

    .2 so stowed as to be capable of being rapidly cast loose, and not permanently secured in any way.

    1.2 At least one lifebuoy on each side of the ship shall be fitted with a buoyant lifeline complying with the requirements of paragraph 2.1.4 of the Code equal in length to not less than twice the height at which it is stowed above the

    waterline in the lightest seagoing condition, or 30 m, whichever is the greater.

    1.3 Not less than one half of the total number of lifebuoys shall be provided with lifebuoy self-igniting lights complying with the requirements of paragraph 2.1.2 of the Code, not less than two of these shall also be provided with lifebuoy

    self-activating smoke signals complying with the requirements of paragraph 2.1.3 of the Code and be capable of quick release from the navigation bridge;lifebuoys with lights and those with lights and smoke signals shall be equally

    distributed on both sides of the ship and shall not be the lifebuoys provided with lifelines in compliance with the requirements of paragraph 1.2.

    1.4 Each lifebuoy shall be marked in block capitals of the Roman alphabet with the name and port of registry of the ship on which it is carried.

    2 Lifejackets

    2.1 A lifejacket complying with the requirements of paragraph 2.2.1 or 2.2.2 of the Code shall be provided for every person on board the ship and, in addition:

    .1 for passenger ships on voyages less than 24 h, a number of infant lifejackets equal to at least 2.5% of the number of passengers on board shall be provided; ( Added by Res.MSC.201(81))

    .2 for passenger ships on voyages 24 h or greater, infant lifejackets shall be provided for each infant on board; ( Added by Res.MSC.201(81))

    .3 a number of lifejackets suitable for children equal to at least 10% of the number of passengers on board shall be provided or such greater number as may be required to provide a lifejacket for each child;

    .4 a sufficient number of lifejackets shall be carried for persons on watch and for use at remotely located survival craft stations. The lifejackets carried for persons on watch should be stowed on the bridge, in the engine control room

    and at any other manned watch station; and

    Refer to the IACS UI SC213 Arrangements for remotely located survival craft

    .5 if the adult lifejackets provided are not designed to fit persons weighing up to 140 kg and with a chest girth of up to 1,750 mm, a sufficient number of suitable accessories shall be available on board to allow them to be secured to

    such persons. ( Added by Res.MSC.201(81))

    2.2 Lifejackets shall be so placed as to be readily accessible and their position shall be plainly indicated. Where, due to the particular arrangements of the ship, the lifejackets provided in compliance with the requirements of paragraph 2.1

    may become inaccessible, alternative provisions shall be made to the satisfaction of the Administration which may include an increase in the number of Lifejackets to be carried.

    2.3 The lifejackets used in totally enclosed lifeboats, except free-fall lifeboats, shall not impede entry into the lifeboat or seating, including operation of the seat belts in the lifeboat.

    2.4 Lifejackets selected for free-fall lifeboats, and the manner in which they are carried or worn, shall not interfere with entry into the lifeboat, occupant safety or operation of the lifeboat.

    3 Immersion suits and anti-exposure suits

    An immersion suit, complying with the requirements of section 2.3 of the Code or an anti-exposure suit complying with section 2.4 of the Code, of an appropriate size, shall be provided for every person assigned to crew the rescue boat

    or assigned to the marine evacuation system party. If the ship is constantly engaged in warm climates* where, in the opinion of the Administration thermal protection is unnecessary, this protective clothing need not be carried.

    * Refer to MSC/Circ.1046, Guidelines for the assessment of thermal protection.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 8

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 8

    Muster list and emergency instructions

    1 This regulation applies to all ships.

    2 Clear instructions to be followed in the event of an emergency shall be provided for every person on board. In the case of passenger ships these instructions shall be drawn up in the language or languages required by the ship's flag State

    and in the English language.

    3 Muster lists and emergency instructions complying with the requirements of regulation 37 shall be exhibited in conspicuous places throughout the ship including the navigation bridge, engine-room and crew accommodation spaces.

    4 Illustrations and instructions in appropriate languages shall be posted in passenger cabins and be conspicuously displayed at muster stations and other passenger spaces to inform passengers of:

    .1 their muster station;

    .2 the essential actions they must take in an emergency;and

    .3 the method of donning lifejackets.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 9

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 9

    Operating instructions

    1 This regulation applies to all ships.

    2 Posters or signs shall be provided on or in the vicinity of survival craft and their launching controls and shall:

    .1 illustrate the purpose of controls and the procedures for operating the appliance and give relevant instructions or warnings;

    .2 be easily seen under emergency lighting conditions;and

    .3 use symbols in accordance with the recommendations of the Organization.*

    * Refer to the Symbols Related to Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements adopted by the Organization by resolution A.760(18) , as amended by resolution MSC.82(70) (MSC/Circ.1046).

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 10

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 10

    Manning of survival craft and supervision

    1 This regulation applies to all ships.

    2 There shall be a sufficient number of trained persons on board for mustering and assisting untrained persons.

    3 There shall be a sufficient number of crew members, who may be deck officers or certificated persons, on board for operating the survival craft and launching arrangements required for abandonment by the total number of persons on

    board.

    4 A deck officer or certificated person shall be placed in charge of each survival craft to be used. However, the Administration, having due regard to the nature of the voyage, the number of persons on board and the characteristics of the

    ship, may permit persons practised in the handling and operation of liferafts to be placed in charge of liferafts in lieu of persons qualified as above. A second-in-command shall also be nominated in the case of lifeboats.

    5 The person in charge of the survival craft shall have a list of the survival craft crew and shall see that the crew under his command are acquainted with their duties. In lifeboats the second-in-command shall also have a list of the lifeboat

    crew.

    6 Every motorized survival craft shall have a person assigned who is capable of operating the engine and carrying out minor adjustments.

    7 The master shall ensure the equitable distribution of persons referred to in paragraphs 2, 3 and 4 among the ship's survival craft.

    Title SOLAS 2006 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 11

    Effective Date 1-7-2008

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2008

    Note

    - Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required

    to comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without

    replacing its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    Regulation 11

    Survival craft muster and embarkation arrangements

    1 Lifeboats and liferafts for which approved launching appliances are required shall be stowed as close to accommodation and service spaces as possible.

    2 Muster stations shall be provided close to the embarkation stations. Each muster station shall have sufficient clear deck space to accommodate all persons assigned to muster at that station, but at least 0.35m²per person.

    3 Muster and embarkation stations shall be readily accessible from accommodation and work areas.

    4 Muster and embarkation stations shall be adequately illuminated by lighting supplied from the emergency source of electrical power required by regulation II-1/42 or II-1/43, as appropriate.

    Refer to the IACS UI SC213 Arrangements for remotely located survival craft

    5 Alleyways, stairways and exits giving access to the muster and embarkation stations shall be lighted. Such lighting shall be capable of being supplied by the emergency source of electrical power required by regulation II-1/42 or II-1/43,

    as appropriate. In addition to and as part of the markings required under regulation II-2/28.1.10*, routes to muster stations shall be indicated with the muster station symbol, intended for that purpose, in accordance with the

    recommendations of the Organization.**

    * This relates to the chapter II-2 in force before 1 July 2002. The equipvalent in the amended chapter II-2 is 13.3.2.5.1.

    ** Refer to the Symbols related to Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements adopted by the Organization by resolutions A.760(18) , as amended by resolution MSC.82(70) , and to the Guidelines for the evaluation, testing and application

    of low-location lighting on passenger ships adopted by the Organization by resolution A.752(18) .

    6 Davit-launched and free-fall launched survival craft muster and embarkation stations shall be so arranged as to enable stretcher cases to be placed in survival craft.

    7 An embarkation ladder complying with the requirements of paragraph 6.1.6 of the Code extending, in a single length, from the deck to the waterline in the lightest seagoing condition under all conditions of trim of up to 10° and a list of up

    to 20° either way shall be provided at each embarkation station or at every two adjacent embarkation stations for survival craft launched down the side of the ship. ( Amended by Res.MSC.216(82))

    Refer to the IACS UI SC213 Arrangements for remotely located survival craft

    However, the Administration may permit such ladders to be replaced by approved devices to afford access to the survival craft when waterborne, provided that there shall be at least one embarkation ladder on each side of the ship. Other

    means of embarkation enabling descent to the water in a controlled manner may be permitted for the liferafts required by regulation 31.1.4

    8 Where necessary, means shall be provided for bringing the davit-launched survival craft against the ship's side and holding them alongside so that persons can be safely embarked.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 12

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Note

    Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without replacing

    its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    Regulation 12

    Launching stations

    Launching stations shall be in such positions as to ensure safe launching having particular regard to clearance from the propeller and steeply overhanging portions of the hull and so that, as far as possible, survival craft, except survival craft

    specially designed for free-fall launching, can be launched down the straight side of the ship. If positioned forward, they shall be located abaft the collision bulkhead in a sheltered position and, in this respect, the Administration shall give

    special consideration to the strength of the launching appliance.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 13

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Note

    - Paragraph 13.4 should apply to the ro-ro passenger ships retroactively in accordance with SOLAS 96 Amend / III / Reg. 26.2.2.

    - Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required

    to comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without

    replacing its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    Regulation 13

    Stowage of survival craft

    1 Each survival craft shall be stowed :

    .1 so that neither the survival craft nor its stowage arrangements will interfere with the operation of any other survival craft or rescue boat at any other launching station;

    .2 as near the water surface as is safe and practicable and, in the case of a survival craft other than an liferaft intended for throw over board launching, in such a position that the survival craft in the embarkation position is not less than

    2 m above the waterline with the ship in the fully loaded condition under unfavourable conditions of trim of up to 10°and listed up to 20°either way, or to the angle at which the ship's weather deck edge becomes submerged, whichever is

    less;

    .3 in a state of continuous readiness so that two crew members can carry out preparations for embarkation and launching in less than 5 min;

    .4 fully equipped as required by this chapter and the Code;and

    .5 as far as practicable, in a secure and sheltered position and protected from damage by fire and explosion. In particular, survival craft on tankers, other than the liferafts required by regulation 31.1.4, shall not be stowed on or above a

    cargo tank, slop tank, or other tank containing explosive or hazardous cargoes.

    2 Lifeboats for lowering down the ship's side shall be stowed as far forward of the propeller as practicable. On cargo ships of 80 m in length and upwards but less than 120 m in length, each lifeboat shall be so stowed that the after end of

    the lifeboat is not less than the length of the lifeboat forward of the propeller. On cargo ships of 120 m in length and upwards and passenger ships of 80 m in length and upwards, each lifeboat shall be so stowed that the after end of the

    lifeboat is not less than 1.5 times the length of the lifeboat forward of the propeller. Where appropriate, the ship shall be so arranged that lifeboats, in their stowed positions, are protected from damage by heavy seas.

    3 Lifeboats shall be stowed attached to launching appliances.

    4.1 Every liferaft shall be stowed with its painter permanently attached to the ship.

    4.2 Each liferaft or group of liferafts shall be stowed with a float-free arrangement complying with the requirements of paragraph 4.1.6 of the Code so that each floats free and, if inflatable, inflates automatically when the ship sinks.

    4.3 Liferafts shall be so stowed as to permit manual release of one raft or container at a time from their securing arrangements.

    4.4 Paragraphs 4.1 and 4.2 do not apply to liferafts required by regulation 31.1.4.

    5 Davit-launched liferafts shall be stowed within reach of the lifting hooks, unless some means of transfer is provided which is not rendered inoperable within the limits of trim and list prescribed in paragraph 1.2 or by ship motion or power

    failure.

    6 Liferafts intended for throw-overboard launching shall be so stowed as to be readily transferable for launching on either side of the ship unless liferafts, of the aggregate capacity required by regulation 31.1 to be capable of being launched

    on either side, are stowed on each side of the ship.

    Title SOLAS 2006 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 14

    Effective Date 1-7-2008

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2008

    Note

    - Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required

    to comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without

    replacing its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    Regulation 14

    Stowage of rescue boats

    Rescue boats shall be stowed :

    .1 in a state of continuous readiness for launching in not more than 5 min, and if the inflated type, in a fully inflated condition at all times; ( Added by Res.MSC.216(82))

    .2 in a position suitable for launching and recovery;

    .3 so that neither the rescue boat nor its stowage arrangements will interfere with the operation of any survival craft at any other launching station;and

    .4 if it is also a lifeboat, in compliance with the requirements of regulation 13.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 15

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Note

    Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without replacing

    its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    Regulation 15

    Stowage of marine evacuation systems

    IACS UI SC 143 Stowage of Marine Evacuation Systems

    1 The ship's side shall not have any openings between the embarkation station of the marine evacuation system and the waterline in the lightest seagoing condition and means shall be provided to protect the system from any projections.

    MSC.1/Circ.1397 10 June 2011 UNIFIED INTERPRETATION OF SOLAS REGULATION III/15.1 'STOWAGE OF MARINE EVACUATION SYSTEMS'

    2 Marine evacuation systems shall be in such positions as to ensure safe launching having particular regard to clearance from the propeller and steeply overhanging positions of the hull and so that, as far as practicable, the system can be

    launched down the straight side of the ship.

    3 Each marine evacuation system shall be stowed so that neither the passage nor platform nor its stowage or operational arrangements will interfere with the operation of any other life-saving appliance at any other launching station.

    4 Where appropriate, the ship shall be so arranged that the marine evacuation systems in their stowed positions are protected from damage by heavy seas.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 16

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Note

    Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without replacing

    its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    Regulation 16

    Survival craft launching and recovery arrangements

    1 Unless expressly provided otherwise, launching and embarkation appliances complying with the requirements of section 6.1 of the Code shall be provided for all survival craft except those which are:

    .1 boarded from a position on deck less than 4.5 m above the waterline in the lightest seagoing condition and which have a mass of not more than 185 kg;or

    .2 boarded from a position on deck less than 4.5 m above the waterline in the lightest seagoing condition and which are stowed for launching directly from the stowed position under unfavourable conditions of trim of up to 10° and list of

    up to 20° either way;or

    .3 carried in excess of the survival craft for 200% of the total number of persons on board the ship and which have a mass of not more than 185 kg;or

    .4 carried in excess of the survival craft for 200% of the total number of persons on board the ship, are stowed for launching directly from the stowed position under unfavourable conditions of trim of up to 10° and list of up to 20°either

    way, or

    .5 provided for use in conjunction with a marine evacuation system, complying with the requirements of section 6.2 of the Code and stowed for launching directly from the stowed position under unfavourable conditions of trim of up to

    10° and list of up to 20° either way.

    Refer to the IACS UI SC215 Embarkation Ladder

    Refer to the MSC.1/circ.1285, UNIFIED INTERPRETATION OF SOLAS REGULATION III/16.1

    2 Each lifeboat shall be provided with an appliance which is capable of launching and recovering the lifeboat. In addition there shall be provision for hanging-off the lifeboat to free the release gear for maintenance.

    3 Launching and recovery arrangements shall be such that the appliance operator on the ship is able to observe the survival craft at all times during launching and for lifeboats during recovery.

    4 Only one type of release mechanism shall be used for similar survival craft carried on board the ship.

    5 Preparation and handling of survival craft at any one launching station shall not interfere with the prompt preparation and handling of any other survival craft or rescue boat at any other station.

    6 Falls, where used, shall be long enough for the survival craft to reach the water with the ship in its lightest seagoing condition, under unfavourable conditions of trim of up to 10° and list of up to 20° either way.

    7 During preparation and launching, the survival craft, its launching appliance, and the area of water into which it is to be launched shall be adequately illuminated by lighting supplied from the emergency source of electrical power required

    by regulation II-1/42 or II-1/43, as appropriate.

    Refer to the IACS UI SC213

    8 Means shall be available to prevent any discharge of water on to survival craft during abandonment.

    9 If there is a danger of the survival craft being damaged by the ship's stabilizer wings, means shall be available, powered by an emergency source of energy, to bring the stabilizer wings inboard ; indicators operated by an emergency

    source of energy shall be available on the navigating bridge to show the position of the stabilizer wings.

    10 If partially enclosed lifeboats complying with the requirements of section 4.5 of the Code are carried, a davit span shall be provided, fitted with not less than two lifelines of sufficient length to reach the water with the ship in its lightest

    seagoing condition, under unfavourable conditions of trim of up to 10° and list of up 20° either way.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 17

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Note Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    Regulation 17

    Rescue boat embarkation, launching and recovery arrangements

    1 The rescue boat embarkation and launching arrangements shall be such that the rescue boat can be boarded and launched in the shortest possible time.

    2 If the rescue boat is one of the ship's survival craft, the embarkation arrangements and launching station shall comply with the requirements of regulations 11 and 12.

    3 Launching arrangements shall comply with the requirements of regulation 16. However, all rescue boats shall be capable of being launched, where necessary utilizing painters, with the ship making headway at speeds up to 5 knots in calm

    water.

    4 Recovery time of the rescue boat shall be not more than 5 min in moderate sea conditions when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment. If the rescue boat is also a lifeboat, this recovery time shall be possible when

    loaded with its lifeboat equipment and the approved rescue boat complement of at least six persons.

    5 Rescue boat embarkation and recovery arrangements shall allow for safe and efficient handling of a stretcher case. Foul weather recovery strops shall be provided for safety if heavy fall blocks constitute a danger.

    Title SOLAS 2012 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 17-1

    Effective Date 1-7-2014

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2014

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 17-1 ( Added by Res.MSC.338(91))

    Recovery of persons from the water

    1 All ships shall have ship-specific plans and procedures for recovery of persons from the water, taking into account the guidelines developed by the Organization.* The plans and procedures shall identify the equipment intended to be used

    for recovery purposes and measures to be taken to minimize the risk to shipboard personnel involved in recovery operations. Ships constructed before 1 July 2014 shall comply with this requirement by the first periodical or renewal safety

    equipment survey of the ship to be carried out after 1 July 2014, whichever comes first.

    * Refer to the Guidelines for the development of plans and procedures for recovery of persons from the water (MSC.1/Circ.1447).

    2 Ro-ro passenger ships which comply with regulation 26.4 shall be deemed to comply with this regulation.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 18

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Note

    Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without replacing

    its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    Regulation 18

    Line-throwing appliances

    A line-throwing appliance complying with the requirements of section 7.1 of the Code shall be provided.

    Title SOLAS 2013 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 19

    Effective Date 1-1-2015

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2015

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 19

    Emergency training and drills

    1 This regulation applies to all ships.

    2 Familiarity with safety installations and practice musters

    2.1 Every crew member with assigned emergency duties shall be familiar with these duties before the voyage begins.

    2.2 On a ship engaged on a voyage where passengers are scheduled to be on board for more than 24 h, musters of newly-embarked passengers shall take place prior to or immediately upon departure. Passengers shall be instructed in

    the use of the lifejackets and the action to take in an emergency.

    2.3 Whenever new passengers embark, a passenger safety briefing shall be given immediately before departure, or immediately after departure. The briefing shall include the instructions required by regulations 8.2 and 8.4, and shall be

    made by means of an announcement, in one or more languages likely to be understood by the passengers. The announcement shall be made on the ship's public address system, or by other equivalent means likely to be heard at least by

    the passengers who have not yet heard it during the voyage. The briefing may be included in the muster required by paragraph 2.2. Information cards or posters or video programmes displayed on ships video displays may be used to

    supplement the briefing, but may not be used to replace the announcement. ( Replaced by Res.MSC.350(92))

    3 Drills

    3.1 Drills shall, as far as practicable, be conducted as if there were an actual emergency.

    3.2 Every crew member shall participate in at least one abandon ship drill and one fire drill every month. The drills of the crew shall take place within 24 h of the ship leaving a port if more than 25% of the crew have not participated in

    abandon ship and fire drills on board that particular ship in the previous month. When a ship enters service for the first time, after modification of a major character or when a new crew is engaged, these drills shall be held before sailing.

    The Administration may accept other arrangements that are at least equivalent for those classes of ships for which this is impracticable.

    3.3 Crew members with enclosed space entry or rescue responsibilities shall participate in an enclosed space entry and rescue drill to be held on board the ship at least once every two months. ( Inserted by Res.MSC.350(92))

    3.4 Abandon ship drill

    3.4.1 Each abandon ship drill shall include :

    .1 summoning of passengers and crew to muster stations with the alarm required by regulation 6.4.2 followed by drill announcement on the public address or other communication system and ensuring that they are made aware of

    the order to abandon ship;

    .2 reporting to stations and preparing for the duties described in the muster list;

    .3 checking that passengers and crew are suitably dressed;

    .4 checking that lifejackets are correctly donned;

    .5 lowering of at least one lifeboat after any necessary preparation for launching;

    .6 starting and operating the lifeboat engine;

    .7 operation of davits used for launching liferafts;

    .8 a mock search and rescue of passengers trapped in their staterooms;and

    .9 instruction in the use of radio life-saving appliances.

    3.4.2 Different lifeboats shall, as far as practicable, be lowered in compliance with the requirements of paragraph 3.4.1.5 at successive drills.

    3.4.3 Except as provided in paragraphs 3.4.4 and 3.4.5, each lifeboat shall be launched, and manoeuvred in the water by its assigned operating crew, at least once every three months during an abandon ship drill.

    3.4.4 In the case of a lifeboat arranged for free-fall launching, at least once every three months during an abandon ship drill the crew shall board the lifeboat, properly secure themselves in their seats and commence launch procedures

    up to but not including the actual release of the lifeboat (i.e., the release hook shall not be released). The lifeboat shall then either be free-fall launched with only the required operating crew on board, or lowered into the water by

    means of the secondary means of launching with or without the operating crew on board. In both cases the lifeboat shall thereafter be manoeuvred in the water by the operating crew. At intervals of not more than six months, the

    lifeboat shall either be launched by free-fall with only the operating crew on board, or simulated launching shall be carried out in accordance with the guidelines developed by the Organization*.

    * Refer to Measures to prevent accidents with lifeboats (MSC.1/Circ.1206/Rev.1).

    3.4.5 The Administration may allow ships operating on short international voyages not to launch the lifeboats on one side if their berthing arrangements in port and their trading patterns do not permit launching of lifeboats on that

    side. However, all such lifeboats shall be lowered at least once every 3 months and launched at least annually.

    3.4.6 As far as is reasonable and practicable, rescue boats other than lifeboats which are also rescue boats, shall be launched each month with their assigned crew aboard and manoeuvred in the water. In all cases this requirement

    shall be complied with at least once every 3 months.

    3.4.7 If lifeboat and rescue boat launching drills are carried out with the ship making headway, such drills shall, because of the dangers involved, be practised in sheltered waters only and under the supervision of an officer

    experienced in such drills.*

    * Refer to the Guidelines on Training for the Purpose of Launching Lifeboats and Rescue Boats from Ships Making Headway through the Water adopted by the Organization by resolution A.624(15).

    3.4.8 If a ship is fitted with marine evacuation systems, drills shall include exercising of the procedures required for the deployment of such a system up to the point immediately preceding actual deployment of the system. This aspect

    of drills should be augmented by regular instruction using the on-board training aids required by regulation 35.4. Additionally every system party member shall, as far as practicable, be further trained by participation in a full

    deployment of a similar system into water, either on board a ship or ashore, at intervals of not longer than 2 years, but in no case longer than 3 years. This training can be associated with the deployments required by regulation

    20.8.2.

    3.4.9 Emergency lighting for mustering and abandonment shall be tested at each abandon ship drill.

    3.5 Fire drills

    3.5.1 Fire drills should be planned in such a way that due consideration is given to regular practice in the various emergencies that may occur depending on the type of ships and the cargo.

    3.5.2 Each fire drill shall include;

    .1 reporting to stations and preparing for the duties described in the muster list required by regulation 8;

    .2 starting of a fire pump, using at least the two required jets of water to show that the system is in proper working order;

    .3 checking of fireman's outfit and other personal rescue equipment;

    .4 checking of relevant communication equipment;

    .5 checking the operation of watertight doors, fire doors, fire dampers and main inlets and outlets of ventilation systems in the drill area;and

    .6 checking the necessary arrangements for subsequent abandoning of the ship.

    3.5.3 The equipment used during drills shall immediately be brought back to its fully operational condition and any faults and defects discovered during the drills shall be remedied as soon as possible.

    3.6 Enclosed space entry and rescue drills( Added by Res.MSC.350(92))

    3.6.1 Enclosed space entry and rescue drills should be planned and conducted in a safe manner, taking into account, as appropriate, the guidance provided in the recommendations developed by the Organization*.

    * Refer to the Revised Recommendations for entering enclosed spaces aboard ships, adopted by the Organization by resolution A.1050(27).

    3.6.2 Each enclosed space entry and rescue drill shall include:

    .1 checking and use of personal protective equipment required for entry;

    .2 checking and use of communication equipment and procedures;

    .3 checking and use of instruments for measuring the atmosphere in enclosed spaces;

    .4 checking and use of rescue equipment and procedures; and

    .5 instructions in first aid and resuscitation techniques.

    4 On-board training and instructions

    4.1 On-board training in the use of the ship's life-saving appliances, including survival craft equipment, and in the use of the ship's fire-extinguishing appliances shall be given as soon as possible but not later than 2 weeks after a crew

    member joins the ship. However, if the crew member is on a regularly scheduled rotating assignment to the ship, such training shall be given not later than 2 weeks after the time of first joining the ship. Instructions in the use of the

    ship's fire-extinguishing appliances, life-saving appliances, and in survival at sea shall be given at the same interval as the drills. Individual instruction may cover different parts of the ship's life-saving and fire-extinguishing appliances,

    but all the ship's life-saving and fire-extinguishing appliances shall be covered within any period of 2 months.

    4.2 Every crew member shall be given instructions which shall include but not necessarily be limited to:

    .1 operation and use of the ship's inflatable liferafts;

    .2 problems of hypothermia, first-aid treatment for hypothermia and other appropriate first-aid procedures;

    .3 special instructions necessary for use of the ship's life-saving appliances in severe weather and severe sea conditions;

    .4 operation and use of fire-extinguishing appliances; and

    .5 risks associated with enclosed spaces and onboard procedures for safe entry into such spaces which should take into account, as appropriate, the guidance provided in recommendations developed by the Organization*. (

    Added by Res.MSC.350(92))

    * Refer to the Revised Recommendations for entering enclosed spaces aboard ships, adopted by the Organization by resolution A.1050(27) .

    4.3 On-board training in the use of davit-launched liferafts shall take place at intervals of not more than 4 months on every ship fitted with such appliances. Whenever practicable this shall include the inflation and lowering of a liferaft.

    This liferaft may be a special liferaft intended for training purposes only, which is not part of the ship's life-saving equipment;such a special liferaft shall be conspicuously marked.

    5 Records

    The date when musters are held, details of abandon ship drills and fire drills, enclosed space entry and rescue drills ( Inserted by Res.MSC.350(92)), drills of other life-saving appliances and on board training shall be recorded in such

    log-book as may be prescribed by the Administration. If a full muster, drill or training session is not held at the appointed time, an entry shall be made in the log-book stating the circumstances and the extent of the muster, drill or training

    session held.

    Title SOLAS 2016 Amend (96th) / Chapter III / Reg. 20

    Effective Date 1-1-2020

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2020

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 20

    Operational readiness, maintenance and inspections

    1 This regulation applies to all ships. The requirements of paragraphs 3.2, 3.3 and 6.2 shall be complied with, as far as is practicable, on ships constructed before 1 July 1986.

    2 Operational readiness

    Before the ship leaves port and at all times during the voyage, all life-saving appliances shall be in working order and ready for immediate use.

    3 Maintenance

    3.1 Maintenance, testing and inspections of life-saving appliances shall be carried out in a manner having due regard to ensuring reliability of such appliances.( Replaced by Res.MSC.404(96))

    3.2 Instructions for on-board maintenance of life-saving appliances complying with regulation 36 shall be provided and maintenance shall be carried out accordingly.

    3.3 The Administration may accept, in compliance with the requirements of paragraph 3.2, a shipboard planned maintenance programme, which includes the requirements of regulation 36.

    4 Maintenance of falls

    Falls used in launching shall be inspected periodically* with special regard for areas passing through sheaves, and renewed when necessary due to deterioration of the falls or at intervals of not more than 5 years, whichever is the earlier.

    * Refer to Measures to prevent accidents with lifeboats (MSC.1/Circ.1206/Rev.1).

    5 Spares and repair equipment

    Spares and repair equipment shall be provided for life-saving appliances and their components which are subject to excessive wear or consumption and need to be replaced regularly.

    6 Weekly inspection

    The following tests and inspections shall be carried out weekly and a report of the inspection shall be entered in the log-book:

    .1 all survival craft, rescue boats and launching appliances shall be visually inspected to ensure that they are ready for use. The inspection shall include, but is not limited to, the condition of hooks, their attachment to the lifeboat and the

    on-load release gear being properly and completely reset;

    .2 all engines in lifeboats and rescue boats shall be run for a total period of not less than 3 min, provided the ambient temperature is above the minimum temperature required for starting and running the engine. During this period of

    time, it should be demonstrated that the gear box and gear box train are engaging satisfactorily. If the special characteristics of an outboard motor fitted to a rescue boat would not allow it to be run other than with its propeller

    submerged for a period of 3 min, a suitable water supply may be provided. In special cases, the Administration may waive this requirement for ships constructed before 1 July 1986;

    .3 lifeboats, except free-fall lifeboats, on cargo ships shall be moved from their stowed position, without any persons on board, to the extent necessary to demonstrate satisfactory operation of launching appliances, if weather and sea

    conditions so allow; and

    .4 the general emergency alarm shall be tested.

    7 Monthly inspection

    7.1 All lifeboats, except free-fall lifeboats, shall be turned out from their stowed position, without any persons on board if weather and sea conditions so allow.

    7.2 Inspection of the life-saving appliances, including lifeboat equipment, shall be carried out monthly using the checklist required by regulation 36.1 to ensure that they are complete and in good order. A report of the inspection shall be

    entered in the log-book.

    8 Servicing of inflatable liferafts, inflatable lifejackets, marine evacuation systems and maintenance and repair of inflated rescue boats

    8.1 Every inflatable liferaft, inflatable lifejacket, and marine evacuation system shall be serviced:

    .1 at intervals not exceeding 12 months, provided where in any case this is impracticable, the Administration may extend this period to 17 months;and

    .2 at an approved servicing station which is competent to service them, maintains proper servicing facilities and used only properly trained personnel.*

    * Refer to the Recommendation on Conditions for the Approval of Servicing Stations for Inflatable Liferafts adopted by the Organization by resolution A.761(18), as amended.

    8.2 Rotational deployment of marine evacuation systems

    In addition to or in conjunction with the servicing intervals of marine evacuation systems required by paragraph 8.1, each marine evacuation system should be deployed from the ship on a rotational basis at intervals to be agreed by the

    Administration provided that each system is to be deployed at least once every six years.

    8.3 An Administration which approves new and novel inflatable liferaft arrangements pursuant to regulation 4 may allow for extended service intervals on the following conditions:

    .1 The new and novel liferaft arrangement has proved to maintain the same standard, as required by testing procedure, during extended service intervals.

    .2 The liferaft system shall be checked on board by certified personnel according to paragraph 8.1.1.

    .3 Service at intervals not exceeding 5 years shall be carried out in accordance with the recommendations of the Organization.*

    * Refer to the Recommendation on Conditions for the Approval of Servicing Stations for Inflatable Liferafts adopted by the Organization by resolution A.761(18), as amended.

    8.4 All repairs and maintenance of inflated rescue boats shall be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Emergency repairs may be carried out on board the ship;however, permanent repairs shall be effected at an

    approved servicing station.

    8.5 An Administration which permits extension of liferaft service intervals in accordance with paragraph 8.3 shall notify the Organization of such action in accordance with regulation I/5(b).

    9 Periodic servicing of hydrostatic release units

    Hydrostatic release units, other than disposable hydrostatic release units, shall be serviced:

    .1 at intervals not exceeding 12 months, provided where in any case this is impracticable, the Administration may extend this period to 17 months*; and

    * Refer to Servicing of life-saving appliances and radiocommunication equipment under the harmonized system of survey and certification (HSSC) (MSC/Circ.955)

    .2 at a servicing station which is competent to service them, maintains proper servicing facilities and uses only properly trained personnel.

    10 Marking of stowage locations

    Containers, brackets, racks, and other similar stowage locations for life-saving equipment shall be marked with symbols in accordance with the recommendations of the Organization*, indicating the devices stowed in that location for that

    purpose. If more than one device is stowed in that location, the number of devices shall also be indicated.

    * Refer to the Symbols Related to Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements, adopted by the Organization by resolution A.760(18), as amended.

    11 Maintenance, thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair of lifeboats, rescue boats and fast rescue boats, launching appliances and release gear( Replaced by Res.MSC.404(96))

    11.1 Launching appliances shall be:

    .1 subject to a thorough examination at the annual surveys required by regulations I/7 or I/8, as applicable; and

    .2 upon completion of the examination referred to in paragraph 11.1.1, subjected to a dynamic test of the winch brake at maximum lowering speed. The load to be applied shall be the mass of the survival craft or rescue boat without

    persons on board, except that, at intervals of at least once every five years, the test shall be carried out with a proof load equal to 1.1 times the weight of the survival craft or rescue boat and its full complement of persons and

    equipment.

    11.2 Lifeboat and rescue boat release gear, including fast rescue boat release gear and free-fall lifeboat release systems, shall be:

    .1 subject to a thorough examination and operational test during the annual surveys required by regulations I/7 and I/8;

    .2 in case of on-load release gear, operationally tested under a load of 1.1 times the total mass of the boat when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment whenever the release gear is overhauled. Such overhauling

    and operational test shall be carried out at least once every five years;* and

    * Refer to Recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances (resolution A.689(17)), as amended. For life-saving appliances installed on board on or after 1 July 1999, refer to Revised Recommendations on testing of life-saving

    appliances (resolution MSC.81(70)), as amended.

    .3 notwithstanding paragraph 11.2.2, the operational testing of free-fall lifeboat release systems shall be performed either by free fall launch with only the operating crew on board or by a test without launching the lifeboat carried out

    based on Requirements for maintenance, thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair.

    11.3 Davit-launched liferaft automatic release hooks shall be:

    .1 subject to a thorough examination and operational test during the annual surveys required by regulations I/7 and I/8; and

    .2 operationally tested under a load of 1.1 times the total mass of the liferaft when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment whenever the automatic release hook is overhauled. Such overhauling and operational test

    shall be carried out at least once every five years.*

    * Refer to Recommendation on testing of life-saving appliances (resolution A.689(17)), as amended. For life-saving appliances installed on board on or after 1 July 1999, refer to Revised Recommendations on testing of life-saving

    appliances (resolution MSC.81(70)), as amended."

    11.4 Lifeboats and rescue boats, including fast rescue boats, shall be subject to a thorough examination and operational test during the annual surveys required by regulations I/7 and I/8.

    11.5 The thorough examination, operational testing and overhaul required by paragraphs 11.1 to 11.4 and the maintenance and repair of equipment specified in paragraphs 11.1 to 11.4 shall be carried out in accordance with the

    Requirements for maintenance, thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair, and the instructions for onboard maintenance as required by regulation 36.

    Title SOLAS 2006 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 21

    Effective Date 1-7-2008

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2008

    Note

    Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without replacing

    its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    SECTION II-PASSENGER SHIPS

    (ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS)

    Regulation 21

    Survival craft and rescue boats

    1 Survival craft

    1.1 Passenger ships engaged on international voyages which are not short international voyage shall carry:

    .1 partially or totally enclosed lifeboats complying with the requirements of section 4.5 or 4.6 of the Code on each side of such aggregate capacity as will accommodate not less than 50% of the total number of persons on board. The

    Administration may permit the substitution of lifeboats by liferafts of equivalent total capacity provided that there shall never be less than sufficient lifeboats on each side of the ship to accommodate 37.5% of the total number of

    persons on board. The inflatable or rigid liferafts shall comply with the requirements of section 4.2 or 4.3 of the Code and shall be served by launching appliances equally distributed on each side of the ship; and

    .2 in addition, inflatable or rigid liferafts complying with the requirements of section 4.2 or 4.3 of the Code of such aggregate capacity as will accommodate at least 25% of the total number of persons on board. These liferafts shall be

    served by at least one launching appliance on each side which may be those provided in compliance with the requirements of paragraph 1.1.1 or equivalent approved appliances capable of being used on both sides. However, stowage

    of these liferafts need not comply with the requirements of regulation 13.5.

    1.2 Passenger ships engaged on short international voyages shall carry: ( Replaced by Res.MSC.216(82))

    .1 partially or totally enclosed lifeboats complying with the requirements of section 4.5 or 4.6 of the Code of such aggregate capacity as will accommodate at least 30% of the total number of persons on board. The lifeboats shall, as

    far as practicable, be equally distributed on each side of the ship. In addition inflatable or rigid liferafts complying with the requirements of section 4.2 or 4.3 of the Code shall be carried of such aggregate capacity that, together with

    the lifeboat capacity, the survival craft will accommodate the total number of persons on board. The liferafts shall be served by launching appliances equally distributed on each side of the ship and

    .2 in addition, inflatable or rigid liferafts complying with the requirements of section 4.2 or 4.3 of the Code of such aggregate capacity as will accommodate at least 25% of the total number of persons on board. These liferafts shall be

    served by at least one launching appliance on each side which may be those provided in compliance with the requirements of paragraph 1.2.1 or equivalent approved appliances capable of being used on both sides. However, stowage

    of these liferafts need not comply with the requirements of regulation 13.5.

    1.3 Passenger ships engaged on short international voyages and not complying with the special standards of subdivision prescribed by regulation II-1/6.5, shall carry survival craft complying with the requirements of paragraph 1.1.(

    Deleted by Res.MSC.216(82) and the remaining paragraphs were renumbered accordingly.)

    1.3 All survival craft required to provide for abandonment by the total number of persons on board shall be capable of being launched with their full complement of persons and equipment within a period of 30 min from the time the

    abandon ship signal is given after all persons have been assembled, with lifejackets donned ( Added by Res.MSC.216(82))

    1.4 In lieu of meeting the requirements of paragraph 1.1 or 1.2, passenger ships of less than 500 gross tonnage where the total number of persons on board is less than 200, may comply with the following.

    .1 they shall carry on each side of the ship, inflatable or rigid liferafts complying with the requirements of section 4.2 or 4.3 of the Code and of such aggregate capacity as will accommodate the total number of persons on board.

    .2 unless the liferafts required by paragraph 1.4.1 are stowed in a position providing for easy side-to-side transfer at a single open deck level, additional liferafts shall be provided so that the total capacity available on each side will

    accommodate 150% of the total number of persons on board.

    .3 if the rescue boat required by paragraph 2.2 is also a partially or totally enclosed lifeboat complying with the requirements of section 4.5 or 4.6 of the Code, it may be included in the aggregate capacity required by paragraph 1.4.1,

    provided that the total capacity available on either side of the ship is at least 150% of the total number of persons on board and

    .4 in the event of any one survival craft being lost or rendered unserviceable, there shall be sufficient survival craft available for use on each side, including those which are stowed in a position providing for easy side-to-side transfer at

    a single open deck level, to accommodate the total number of persons on board.

    1.5 A marine evacuation system or systems complying with section 6.2 of the Code may be substituted for the equivalent capacity of liferafts and launching appliances required by paragraph 1.1.1 or 1.2.1.

    2 Rescue boats

    2.1 Passenger ships of 500 gross tonnage and over shall carry at least one rescue boat complying with the requirements of section 5.1 of the Code on each side of the ship.

    2.2 Passenger ships of less than 500 gross tonnage shall carry at least one rescue boat complying with the requirements of section 5.1 of the Code.

    2.3 A lifeboat may be accepted as a rescue boat provided that it and its launching and recovery arrangements also comply with the requirements for a rescue boat. ( Replaced by Res.MSC.216(82))

    3 Marshalling of liferafts

    3.1 The number of lifeboats and rescue boats that are carried on passenger ships shall be sufficient to ensure that in providing for abandonment by the total number of persons on board not more than six liferafts need be marshalled by

    each lifeboat or rescue boat.

    3.2 The number of lifeboats and rescue boats that are carried on passenger ships engaged on short international voyages shall be sufficient to ensure that in providing for abandonment by the total number of persons on board not more

    than nine liferafts need be marshalled by each lifeboat or rescue boat. ( the words “and complying with the special standards of subdivision prescribed by regulation II-1/6.5” were deleted by Res.MSC.216(82))

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 22.1

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Note Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    Regulation 22

    Personal life-saving appliances

    1 Lifebuoys

    1.1 A passenger ship shall carry not less than the number of lifebuoys complying with the requirements of regulation 7.1 and section 2.1 of the Code prescribed in the following table:

    Length of ship in metres Minimum number of lifebuoys

    under 60 8

    60 and under 120 12

    120 and under 180 18

    180 and under 240 24

    240 and over 30

    1.2 Notwithstanding regulation 7.1.3, passenger ships of under 60 m in length shall carry not less than six lifebuoys provided with self-igniting lights.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 22.2

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Note Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    2 Lifejackets

    2.1 In addition to the lifejackets required by regulation 7.2, every passenger ship shall carry lifejackets for not less than 5% of the total number of persons on board. These lifejackets shall be stowed in conspicuous places on deck or at

    muster stations.

    2.2 Where lifejackets for passengers are stowed in staterooms which are located remotely from direct routes between public spaces and muster stations, the additional lifejackets for these passengers required under regulation 7.2.2, shall

    be stowed either in the public spaces, the muster stations, or on direct routes between them. The lifejackets shall be stowed so that their distribution and donning does not impede orderly movement to muster stations and survival craft

    embarkation stations.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 22.3

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    3 Lifejacket lights

    3.1 On all passenger ships each lifejacket shall be fitted with a light complying with the requirements of paragraph 2.2.3 of the Code.

    3.2 Lights fitted on lifejackets on board passenger ships prior to 1 July 1998 and not complying fully with paragraph 2.2.3 of the Code may be accepted by the Administration until the lifejacket light would normally be replaced or until the

    first periodical survey after 1 July 2002, whichever is the earliest.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 22.4

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    4 Immersion suits and thermal protective aids

    4.1 All passenger ships shall carry for each lifeboat on the ship at least three immersion suits complying with the requirements of section 2.3 of the Code and, in addition, a thermal protective aid complying with the requirements of

    section 2.5 of the Code for every person to be accommodated in the lifeboat and not provided with an immersion suit. These immersion suits and thermal protective aids need not be carried:

    .1 for persons to be accommodated in totally or partially enclosed lifeboats;or

    .2 if the ship is constantly engaged on voyages in warm climates* where, in the opinion of the Administration, they are unnecessary.

    * Refer MSC/Cire.1046, Guidelines for the assessment of thermal protection.

    4.2 The provisions of paragraph 4.1.1 also apply to partially or totally enclosed lifeboats not complying with the requirements of section 4.5 or 4.6 of the Code, provided they are carried on ships constructed before 1 July 1986.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 23

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Note

    Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without replacing

    its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    Regulation 23

    Survival craft and rescue boat embarkation arrangements

    1 On passenger ships, survival craft embarkation arrangements shall be designed for:

    .1 all lifeboats to be boarded and launched either directly from the stowed position or from an embarkation deck but not both;and

    .2 davit-launched liferafts to be boarded and launched from a position immediately adjacent to the stowed position or from a position to which, in compliance with the requirements of regulation 13.5, the liferaft is transferred prior to

    launching.

    2 Rescue boat arrangements shall be such that the rescue boat can be boarded and launched directly from the stowed position with the number of persons assigned to crew the rescue boat on board. Notwithstanding the requirements of

    paragraph 1.1, if the rescue boat is also a lifeboat and the other lifeboats are boarded and launched from an embarkation deck, the arrangements shall be such that the rescue boat can also be boarded and launched from the embarkation

    deck.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 24

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Note

    Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without replacing

    its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    Regulation 24

    Stowage of survival craft

    The stowage height of a survival craft on a passenger ship shall take into account the requirements of regulation 13.1.2, the escape provisions of regulation II-2/28*, the size of the ship, and the weather conditions likely to be encountered

    in its intended area of operation. For a davit-launched survival craft, the height of the davit head with the survival craft in embarkation position, shall, as far as practicable, not exceed 15 m to the waterline when the ship is in its lightest

    seagoing condition.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 25

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Note Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    Regulation 25

    Muster stations

    Every passenger ship shall, in addition to complying with the requirements of regulation 11, have passenger muster stations which shall:

    .1 be in the vicinity of, and permit ready access for the passengers to, the embarkation stations unless in the same location;and

    .2 have ample room for marshalling and instruction of the passengers, but at least 0.35m² per passenger.

    Title SOLAS 2001-2003 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 26.1

    Effective Date 1-7-2004

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2004

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note

    - Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required

    to comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without

    replacing its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    Regulation 26

    Additional requirements for ro-ro passenger ships

    1 This regulation applies to all ro-ro passenger ships. Ro-ro passenger ships constructed:

    .1 on or after 1 July 1998 shall comply with the requirements of paragraphs 2.3, 2.4, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 4 and 5;

    .2 on or after 1 July 1986 and before 1 July 1998 shall comply with the requirements of paragraph 5 not later than the first periodical survey after 1 July 1998 and with the requirements of paragraphs 2.3, 2.4, 3 and 4 not later than the

    first periodical survey after 1 July 2000;

    .3 before 1 July 1986 shall comply with the requirements of paragraph 5 not later than the first periodical survey after 1 July 1998 and with the requirements of paragraphs 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 3 and 4 not later than the first periodical

    survey after 1 July 2000; and

    .4 before 1 July 2004 shall comply with the requirements of paragraph 2.5 not later than the first survey on or after that date.( added by Res.MSC.134(76))

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 26.2.3

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note

    Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without replacing

    its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    2.3 Every liferaft on ro-ro passenger ships shall be of a type fitted with a boarding ramp complying with the requirements of paragraph 4.2.4.1 or 4.3.4.1 of the Code, as appropriate.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 26.2.4

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note

    Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without replacing

    its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    2.4 Every liferaft on ro-ro passenger ships shall either be automatically self-righting or be a canopied reversible liferaft which is stable in a seaway and is capable of operating safely whichever way up it is floating. Alternatively, the ship

    shall carry automatically self-righting liferafts or canopied reversible liferafts, in addition to its normal complement of liferafts, of such aggregate capacity as will accommodate at least 50% of the persons not accommodated in lifeboats.

    This additional liferaft capacity shall be determined on the basic of the difference between the total number of persons on board and the number of persons accommodated in lifeboats. Every such liferaft shall be approved by the

    Administration having regard to the recommendations adopted by the Organization.*

    * Refer to MSC/Circ.809, Recommendation for canopied reversible liferafts. automatically self-righting liferafts and fast rescue boats, including testing, on ro-ro passenger ships.

    Title SOLAS 2008 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 26.2.5

    Effective Date 1-1-2010

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2004

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note

    - Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required

    to comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without

    replacing its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    2.5 Liferafts carried on ro-ro passenger ships shall be fitted with a search and rescue locating device in the ratio of one search and rescue locating device for every four liferafts. The search and rescue locating device shall be mounted

    inside the liferaft so its antenna is more than one metre above the sea level when the liferaft is deployed, except that for canopied reversible liferafts the search and rescue locating device shall be so arranged as to be readily accessed

    and erected by survivors. Each search and rescue locating device shall be arranged to be manually erected when the liferaft is deployed. Containers of liferafts fitted with search and rescue locating devices shall be clearly marked.

    ( Replaced by Res.MSC.256(84) )

    Title SOLAS 2006 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 26.3.1

    Effective Date 1-7-2008

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2008

    Note Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    3 Fast rescue boats

    3.1 At least one of the rescue boats on a ro-ro passenger ship shall be a fast rescue boat complying with section 5.1.4 of the Code. ( Replaced by Res.MSC.216(82)).

    * Refer to MSC/Circ.809, Recommendation for canopied reversible liferafts, automatically self-righting liferafts and fast rescue boats, including testing, on ro-ro passenger ships.

    Title SOLAS 2006 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 26.3.2

    Effective Date 1-7-2008

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2008

    Note Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    3.2 Each fast rescue boat shall be served by a suitable launching appliance complying with section 6.1.7 of the Code.* ( Replaced by Res.MSC.216(82)).

    * Refer to MSC/Circ.809, Recommendation for canopied reversible liferafts, automatically self-righting liferafts and fast rescue boats, including testing, on ro-ro passenger ships.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 26.3.3

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    3.3 At least two crews of each fast rescue boat shall be trained and drilled regularly having regard to the Seafarers Training, Certification and Watchkeeping(STCW) Code and recommendations adopted by the Organization***, including

    all aspects of rescue, handling, manoeuvring, operating these craft in various conditions, and righting them after capsize.

    *** Refer to the Recommendation on training requirements for crews of fast rescue boats, adopted by the Organization by resolution A.771(18) and to the section A-VI/2, table A-VI/2-2 "Specification of the minimum standard of

    competence in fast rescue boats" of the Seafarers' Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 26.4

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    4 Means of rescue *

    * Refer to MSC/Circ.810, Recommendation on means of rescue on ro-ro passenger ships.

    4.1 Each ro-ro passenger ship shall be equipped with efficient means for rapidly recovering survivors from the water and transferring survivors from rescue units or survival craft to the ship.

    4.2 The means of transfer of survivors to the ship may be part of a marine evacuation system, or may be part of a system designed for rescue purposes.

    4.3 If the slide of a marine evacuation system is intended to provide the means of transfer of survivors to the deck of the ship, the slide shall be equipped with handlines or ladders to aid in climbing up the slide.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 26.5

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    5 Lifejackets

    5.1 Notwithstanding the requirements of regulations 7.2 and 22.2, a sufficient number of lifejackets shall be stowed in the vicinity of the muster stations so that passengers do not have to return to their cabins to collect their lifejackets.

    5.2 In ro-ro passenger ships, each lifejacket shall be fitted with a light complying with the requirements of paragraph 2.2.3 of the Code.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 27

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 27

    Information on passengers

    1 All persons on board all passenger ships shall be counted prior to departure.

    2 Details of persons who have declared a need for special care or assistance in emergency situations shall be recorded and communicated to the master prior to departure.

    3 In addition, not later than 1 January 1999, the names and gender of all persons on board, distinguishing between adults, children and infants shall be recorded for search and rescue purposes.

    4 The information required by paragraphs 1, 2 and 3 shall be kept ashore and made readily available to search and rescue services when needed.

    5 Administrations may exempt passenger ships from the requirements of paragraph 3, if the scheduled voyages of such ships render it impracticable for them to prepare such records.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 28.1

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 28

    Helicopter landing and pick-up areas

    1 All ro-ro passenger ships shall be provided with a helicopter pick-up area approved by the Administration having regard to the recommendations adopted by the Organization.*

    * Refer to the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue Manual(IAMSAR Manual).

    Title SOLAS 1999/2000 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 28.2

    Effective Date 1-1-2002

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1999

    2 Ro-ro** passenger ships of 130 m in length and upwards, constructed on or after 1 July 1999, shall be fitted with a helicopter landing area approved by the Administration having regard to the recommendations adopted by the

    Organization.***

    ** Refer to MSC/Circ.907, Application of SOLAS regulation III/28.2 concerning helicopter landing areas on non-ro-ro passenger ships.

    *** Refer to MSC/Circ.895, Recommendation on helicopter landing areas on ro-ro passenger ships and Guidelines for approval of helicopter foam fire-fighting appliances (MSC.1/Circ.1431).

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 29

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 29

    Decision support system for masters of passenger ships

    1 This regulation applies to all passenger ships. Passenger ships constructed before 1 July 1997 shall comply with the requirements of this regulation not later than the date of the first periodical survey after 1 July 1999.

    2 In all passenger ships, a decision support system for emergency management shall be provided on the navigation bridge.

    3 The system shall, as a minimum, consist of a printed emergency plan or plans.* All foreseeable emergency situations shall be identified in the emergency plan or plans, including, but not limited to, the following main groups of

    emergencies:

    ** Refer to Revised Guidelines for a structure of an integrated system of contingency planning for shipboard emergencies (resolution A.1072(28) and Corr.1).

    .1 fire;

    .2 damage to ship;

    .3 pollution;

    .4 unlawful acts threatening the safety of the ship and the security of its passengers and crew;

    .5 personnel accidents;

    .6 cargo-related accidents;and

    .7 emergency assistance to other ships.

    4 The emergency procedures established in the emergency plan or plans shall provide decision support to masters for handling any combination of emergency situations.

    5 The emergency plan or plans shall have a uniform structure and be easy to use. Where applicable, the actual loading condition as calculated for the passenger ship's voyage stability shall be used for damage control purposes.

    6 In addition to the printed emergency plan or plans, the Administration may also accept the use of a computer-based decision support system on the navigation bridge which provides all the information contained in the emergency plan or

    plans, procedures, checklists, etc., which is able to present a list of recommended actions to be carried out in foreseeable emergencies.

    Title SOLAS 2017 Amendment (98th) / Chapter III / Reg. 30

    Effective Date 1-1-2020

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2020

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 30

    Drills

    1 This regulation applies to all passenger ships.

    2 On passenger ships, an abandon ship drill and fire drill shall take place weekly. The entire crew need not be involved in every drill, but each crew member must participate in an abandon ship drill and a fire drill each month as required in

    regulation 19.3.2. Passengers shall be strongly encouraged to attend these drills.

    3 Damage control drills shall be conducted as required in regulation II-1/19-1.( Added by Res.MSC.421(98))

    Title SOLAS 2006 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 31

    Effective Date 1-7-2008

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2008

    Note

    Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without replacing

    its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    SECTION III-CARGO SHIPS

    (ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS)

    Regulation 31

    Survival craft and rescue boats

    1 Survival craft

    1.1 Cargo ships shall carry:

    .1 one or more totally enclosed lifeboats complying with the requirements of section 4.6 of the Code of such aggregate capacity on each side of the ship as will accommodate the total number of persons on board;and

    .2 in addition, one or more inflatable or rigid liferafts, complying with the requirements of section 4.2 or 4.3 of the Code, of a mass of less than 185 kg and stowed in a position providing for easy side-to-side transfer at a single open

    deck level, and of such aggregate capacity as will accommodate the total number of persons on board. If the liferaft or liferafts are not of a mass of less than 185 kg and stowed in a position providing for easy side-to-side transfer at a

    single open deck level, the total capacity available on each side shall be sufficient to accommodate the total number of persons on board. ( Replaced by Res.MSC.216(82))

    1.2 In lieu of meeting the requirements of paragraph 1.1, cargo ships may carry:

    .1 one or more free-fall lifeboats, complying with the requirements of section 4.7 of the Code, capable of being free-fall launched over the stern of the ship of such aggregate capacity as will accommodate the total number of persons

    on board; and

    .2 in addition, one or more inflatable or rigid liferafts complying with the requirements of section 4.2 or 4.3 of the Code, on each side of the ship, of such aggregate capacity as will accommodate the total number of persons on board.

    The liferafts on at least one side of the ship shall be served by launching appliances.

    1.3 In lieu of meeting the requirements of paragraph 1.1 or 1.2, cargo ships of less than 85 m in length other than oil tankers, chemical tankers and gas carriers, may comply with the following:

    .1 they shall carry on each side of the ship, one or more inflatable or rigid liferafts complying with the requirements of section 4.2 or 4.3 of the Code and of such aggregate capacity as will accommodate the total number of persons on

    board;

    .2 unless the liferafts required by paragraph 1.3.1 are of a mass of less than 185 kg and stowed in a position providing for easy side-to-side transfer at a single open deck level, additional liferafts shall be provided so that the total

    capacity available on each side will accommodate 150% of the total number of persons on board; ( Replaced by Res.MSC.216(82))

    .3 if the rescue boat required by paragraph 2 is also a totally enclosed lifeboat complying with the requirements of section 4.6 of the Code, it may be included in the aggregate capacity required by paragraph 1.3.1, provided that the

    total capacity available on either side of the ship is at least 150% of the total number of persons on board;and

    .4 in the event of any one survival craft being lost or rendered unserviceable, there shall be sufficient survival craft available for use on each side, including any which are of a mass of less than 185 kg and stowed in a position

    providing for easy side-to-side transfer at a single open deck level, to accommodate the total number of persons on board. ( Replaced by Res.MSC.216(82))

    Refer to the IACS UI SC215 Embarkation Ladder

    1.4 Cargo ships where the horizontal distance from the extreme end of the stem or stern of the ship to the nearest end of the closest survival craft is more than 100 m shall carry, in addition to the liferafts required by paragraphs 1.1.2

    and 1.2.2, a liferaft stowed as far forward of aft, or one as far forward and another as far aft, as is reasonable and practicable. Such liferaft or liferafts may be securely fastened so as to permit manual release and need not be of the type

    which can be launched from an approved launching device.

    Refer to MSC.1/Circ.1490 Unified Interpretation of SOLAS Regulation III/31.1.4

    Refer to the IACS UI SC213 Arrangements for remotely located survival craft

    1.5 With the exception of the survival craft referred to in regulation 16.1.1, all survival craft required to provide for abandonment by the total number of persons on board shall be capable of being launched with their full complement of

    persons and equipment within a period of 10 min from the time the abandon ship signal is given.

    1.6 Chemical tankers and gas carriers carrying cargoes emitting toxic vapours or gases*1shall carry, in lieu of totally enclosed lifeboats complying with the requirements of section 4.6 of the Code, lifeboats with a self-contained air

    support system complying with the requirements of section 4.8 of the Code.

    * Refer to products for which emergency escape respiratory protection is required in chapter 17 of the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk(IBC Code), adopted by the

    Maritime Safety Committee by resolution MSC.4(48) and in chapter 19 of the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk(IGC Code), adopted by the Maritime Safety Committee

    by resolution MSC.5(48), as amended.

    1.7 Oil tankers, chemical tankers and gas carriers carrying cargoes having a flash point not exceeding 60°C(closed cup test) shall carry, in lieu of totally enclosed lifeboats complying with the requirements of section 4.6 of the Code, fireprotected

    lifeboats complying with the requirements of section 4.9 of the Code.

    1.8 Notwithstanding the requirements of paragraph 1.1, bulk carriers as defined in regulation IX/1.6 constructed on or after 1 July 2006 shall comply with the requirements of paragraph 1.2.

    Refer to the IACS UI SC226 IACS Unified Interpretations (UI) for the application of SOLAS regulations to conversions of Single Hull Tanker to Double Hull Tanker or Bulk Carrier/Ore Carrier

    2 Rescue boats

    Cargo ships shall carry at least one rescue boat complying with the requirements of section 5.1 of the Code. A lifeboat may be accepted as a rescue boat, provided that it and its launching and recovery arrangements also comply with the

    requirements for a rescue boat. ( Replaced by Res.MSC.216(82))

    3 In addition to their lifeboats, all cargo ships constructed before 1 July 1986 shall carry:

    .1 one or more liferafts capable of being launched on either side of the ship and of such aggregate capacity as will accommodate the total number of persons on board. The liferaft or liferafts shall be equipped with a lashing or an

    equivalent means of securing the liferaft which will automatically release it from a sinking ship;and

    .2 where the horizontal distance from the extreme end of the stem or stern of the ship to the nearest end of the closest survival craft is more than 100 m, in addition to the liferafts required by paragraph 3.1, a liferaft stowed as far

    forward or aft, or one as far forward and another as far aft, as is reasonable and practicable. Notwithstanding the requirements of paragraph 3.1, such liferaft or liferafts may be securely fastened so as to permit manual release.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 32.1

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Note Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    Regulation 32

    Personal life-saving appliances

    1 Lifebuoys

    1.1 Cargo ships shall carry not less than the number of lifebuoys complying with the requirements of regulation 7.1 and section 2.1 of the Code prescribed in the following table:

    Length of ship in metres Minimum number of lifebuoys

    under 100 8

    100 and under 150 10

    150 and under 200 12

    200 and over 14

    1.2 Self-igniting lights for lifebuoys on tankers required by regulation 7.1.3 shall be of an electric battery type.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 32.2

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    2 Lifejacket lights

    2.1 This paragraph applies to all cargo ships.

    2.2 On cargo ships, each lifejacket shall be fitted with a lifejacket light complying with the requirements of paragraph 2.2.3 of the Code.

    2.3 Lights fitted on lifejackets on board cargo ships prior to 1 July 1998 and not complying fully with paragraph 2.2.3 of the Code may be accepted by the Administration until the lifejacket light would normally be replaced or until the first

    periodical survey after 1 July 2001, whichever is the earliest.

    Title SOLAS 2006 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 32.3

    Effective Date 1-7-2008

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2008

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required to

    comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code.

    3 Immersion suits

    3.1 This paragraph applies to all cargo ships. However, with respect to cargo ships constructed before 1 July 2006, paragraphs 3.2 to 3.5 shall be complied with not later than the first safety equipment survey on or after 1 July 2006.

    3.2 An immersion suit of an appropriate size, ( Inserted by Res.MSC.216(82)) complying with the requirements of section 2.3 of the Code shall be provided for every person on board the ship. However, for ships other than bulk

    carriers, as defined in regulation IX/1, these immersion suits need not be required if the ship is constantly engaged on voyages in warm climates** where, in the opinion of the Administration, immersion suits are unnecessary.

    ** Refer to the Guidelines for assessment of thermal protection (MSC/Circ.1046).

    3.3 If a ship has any watch or work stations which are located remotely from the place or places where immersion suits are normally stowed, including remotely located survival craft carried in accordance with regulation 31.1.4 (

    Inserted by Res.MSC.216(82)) additional immersion suits of an appropriate size ( Inserted by Res.MSC.216(82)) shall be provided at these locations for the number of persons normally on watch or working at those locations at any

    time.

    3.4 Immersion suits shall be so placed as to be readily accessible and their position shall be plainly indicated.

    3.5 The immersion suits required by this regulation may be used to comply with the requirements of regulation 7.3.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 33

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Regulation 33

    Survival craft embarkation and launching arrangements

    1 Cargo ship survival craft embarkation arrangements shall be so designed that lifeboats can be boarded and launched directly from the stowed position and davit-launched liferafts can be boarded and launched from a position immediately

    adjacent to the stowed position of from a position to which the liferaft is transferred prior to launching in compliance with the requirements of regulation 13.5.

    2 On cargo ships of 20,000 gross tonnage and upwards, lifeboats shall be capable of being launched, where necessary utilizing painters, with the ship making headway at speeds up to 5 knots in calm water.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 34

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    SECTION IV-LIFE-SAVING APPLIANCES AND ARRANGEMENTS REQUIREMENTS

    Regulation 34

    All life-saving appliances and arrangements shall comply with the applicable requirements of the Code.

    Title SOLAS 2006 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 35

    Effective Date 1-7-2008

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2008

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Paragraph 5 enters into force on 1 July 2008.

    SECTION V-MISCELLANEOUS

    Regulation 35

    Training manual and on-board training aids

    1 This regulation applies to all ships.

    2 A training manual complying with the requirements of paragraph 3 shall be provided in each crew mess room and recreation room or in each crew cabin.

    3 The training manual, which may comprise several volumes, shall contain instructions and information, in easily understood terms illustrated wherever possible, on the life-saving appliances provided in the ship and on the best methods of

    survival. Any part of such information may be provided in the form of audio-visual aids in lieu of the manual. The following shall be explained in detail:

    .1 donning of lifejackets, immersion suits and anti-exposure suits, as appropriate;

    .2 muster at the assigned stations;

    .3 boarding, launching, and clearing the survival craft and rescue boats, including, where applicable, use of marine evacuation systems;

    .4 method of launching from within the survival craft;

    .5 release from launching appliances;

    .6 methods and use of devices for protection in launching areas, where appropriate;

    .7 illumination in launching areas;

    .8 use of all survival equipment;

    .9 use of all detection equipment;

    .10 with the assistance of illustrations, the use of radio life-saving appliances;

    .11 use of drogues;

    .12 use of engine and accessories;

    .13 recovery of survival craft and rescue boats including stowage and securing;

    .14 hazards of exposure and the need for warm clothing;

    .15 best use of the survival craft facilities in order to survive;

    .16 methods of retrieval, including the use of helicopter rescue gear(slings, baskets, stretchers), breeches-buoy and shore life-saving apparatus and ship's line-throwing apparatus;

    .17 all other functions contained in the muster list and emergency instructions;and

    .18 instructions for emergency repair of the life-saving appliances.

    4 Every ship fitted with a marine evacuation system shall be provided with on-board training aids in the use of the system.

    5 The training manual shall be written in the working language of the ship. ( Added by Res.MSC.216(82))

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 36

    Effective Date 1-7-1998

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1998

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note * Refer to MSC.1/Circ.1206/Rev.1 for MEASURES TO PREVENT ACCIDENTS WITH LIFEBOATS.

    Regulation 36

    Instructions for on-board maintenance

    Instructions for on-board maintenance of life-saving appliances shall be easily understood, illustrated wherever possible, and, as appropriate, shall include the following for each appliance:

    .1 a checklist for use when carrying out the inspections required by regulation 20.7;

    .2 maintenance and repair instructions;

    .3 schedule of periodic maintenance;

    .4 diagram of lubrication points with the recommended lubricants;

    .5 list of replaceable parts;

    .6 list of sources of spare parts;and

    .7 log for records of inspections and maintenance.

    Title SOLAS 2017 Amendment (98th) / Chapter III / Reg. 37

    Effective Date 1-1-2020

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2020

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 37

    Muster list and emergency instructions

    1 The muster list shall specify details of the general emergency alarm and public address system prescribed by section 7.2 of the Code and also action to be taken by crew and passengers when this alarm is sounded. The muster list shall

    also specify how the order to abandon ship will be given.

    2 Each passenger ship shall have procedures in place for locating and rescuing passengers trapped in their staterooms.

    3 The muster list shall show the duties assigned to the different members of the crew including:

    .1 closing of the watertight doors, fire doors, valves, scuppers, sidescuttles, skylights, portholes and other similar openings in the ship;

    .2 equipping of the survival craft and other life-saving appliances;

    .3 preparation and launching of survival craft;

    .4 general preparations of other life-saving appliances;

    .5 muster of passengers;

    .6 use of communication equipment;

    .7 manning of fire parties assigned to deal with fires;( Replaced by Res.MSC.421(98))

    .8 special duties assigned in respect to the use of fire-fighting equipment and installations; and

    .9 for passenger ships only, damage control for flooding emergencies.

    4 The muster list shall specify which officers are assigned to ensure that life-saving and fire appliances are maintained in good condition and are ready for immediate use.

    5 The muster list shall specify substitutes for key persons who may become disabled, taking into account that different emergencies may call for different actions.

    6 The muster list shall show the duties assigned to members of the crew in relation to passengers in case of emergency. These duties shall include:

    .1 warning the passengers;

    .2 seeing that they are suitably clad and have donned their lifejackets correctly;

    .3 assembling passengers at muster stations;

    .4 keeping order in the passageways and on the stairways and generally controlling the movements of the passengers;and

    .5 ensuring that a supply of blankets is taken to the survival craft.

    7 The muster list shall be prepared before the ship proceeds to sea. After the muster list has been prepared, if any change takes place in the crew which necessitates an alteration in the muster list, the master shall either revise the list or

    prepare a new list.

    8 The format of the muster list used on passenger ships shall be approved.

    Title SOLAS 2006 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 38

    Effective Date 1-7-2010

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2010

    Note This regulation added by Res.MSC.216(82) and enters into force on 1 July 2010.

    ( Added by Res.MSC.216(82))

    PART C

    ALTERNATIVE DESIGN AND ARRANGEMENTS

    Regulation 38

    Alternative design and arrangements

    1 Purpose

    The purpose of this regulation is to provide a methodology for alternative design and arrangements for life-saving appliances and arrangements.

    2 General

    2.1 Life-saving appliances and arrangements may deviate from the requirements set out in part B, provided that the alternative design and arrangements meet the intent of the requirements concerned and provide an equivalent level of

    safety to this chapter.

    2.2 When alternative design or arrangements deviate from the prescriptive requirements of part B, an engineering analysis, evaluation and approval of the design and arrangements shall be carried out in accordance with this regulation.

    3 Engineering analysis

    The engineering analysis shall be prepared and submitted to the Administration, based on the guidelines developed by the Organization* and shall include, as a minimum, the following elements:

    * Refer to the Guidelines on alternative design and arrangements for SOLAS chapters II-1 and III (MSC.1/Circ.1212).

    .1 determination of the ship type and the life-saving appliance and arrangements concerned;

    .2 identification of the prescriptive requirement(s) with which the life-saving appliance and arrangements will not comply;

    .3 identification of the reason the proposed design will not meet the prescriptive requirements supported by compliance with other recognized engineering or industry standards;

    .4 determination of the performance criteria for the ship and the life-saving appliance and arrangements concerned addressed by the relevant prescriptive requirement(s):

    .4.1 performance criteria shall provide a level of safety not inferior to the relevant prescriptive requirements contained in part B; and

    .4.2 performance criteria shall be quantifiable and measurable;

    .5 detailed description of the alternative design and arrangements, including a list of the assumptions used in the design and any proposed operational restrictions or conditions;

    .6 technical justification demonstrating that the alternative design and arrangements meet the safety performance criteria; and

    .7 risk assessment based on identification of the potential faults and hazards associated with the proposal.

    4 Evaluation of the alternative design and arrangements

    4.1 The engineering analysis required in paragraph 3 shall be evaluated and approved by the Administration, taking into account the guidelines developed by the Organization.**

    ** Refer to the Guidelines on alternative design and arrangements for SOLAS chapters II-1 and III (MSC.1/Circ.1212).

    4.2 A copy of the documentation, as approved by the Administration, indicating that the alternative design and arrangements comply with this regulation, shall be carried on board the ship.

    5 Exchange of information

    The Administration shall communicate to the Organization pertinent information concerning alternative design and arrangements approved by them for circulation to all Contracting Governments.

    6 Re-evaluation due to change of conditions

    If the assumptions and operational restrictions that were stipulated in the alternative design and arrangements are changed, the engineering analysis shall be carried out under the changed condition and shall be approved by the

    Administration.

    Title SOLAS 1988 Amend / Chapter III / Reg. 41

    Effective Date 1-2-1992

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-2-1992

    Invalid from 11-4-1988

    Note

    - Life-saving appliances or arrangements replaced or added to existing life-saving appliances or arrangements, in so far as is reasonable and practicable, are required

    to comply with the applicable requirements of SOLAS chapter III and LSA code. However, if a survival craft other than an inflatable liferaft is replaced without

    replacing its launching appliance, or vice versa, the survival craft or launching appliance may be of the same type as that replaced.

    - The reason for this paradox is a result that the regulation adopted on 9 November 1988 and never came into force as it reads here. The regulation was amended

    on11 April 1989 by Res.MSC.13(57) with a same effective date.

    Regulation 41

    General requirements for lifeboats

    1 Construction of lifeboats

    1.1 All lifeboats shall be properly constructed and shall be of such form and proportions that they have ample stability in a seaway and sufficient freeboard when loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment. All lifeboats

    shall have rigid hulls and shall be capable of maintaining positive stability when in an upright position in calm water and loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment and holed in any one location below the waterline,

    assuming no loss of buoyancy material and no other damage.

    1.2 All lifeboats shall be of sufficient strength to:

    .1 enable them to be safely lowered into the water when loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment; and

    .2 be capable of being launched and towed when the ship is making headway at a speed of 5 knots in calm water.

    1.3 Hulls and rigid covers shall be fire-retardant or non-combustible.

    1.4 Seating shall be provided on thwarts, benches or fixed chairs fitted as low as practicable in the lifeboat and constructed so as to be capable of supporting the number of persons each weighing 100kg for which spaces are provided in

    compliance with the requirements of paragraph 2.2.2.

    1.5 Each lifeboat shall be of sufficient strength to withstand a load, without residual deflection on removal of that load:

    .1 in the case of boats with metal hulls, 1.25 times the total mass of the lifeboat when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment; or

    .2 in the case of other boats, twice the total mass of the lifeboat when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment.

    1.6 Each lifeboat shall be of sufficient strength to withstand, when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment and with, where applicable, skates or fenders in position, a lateral impact against the ship's side at an impact

    velocity of at least 3.5m/s and also a drop into the water from a height of at least 3m.

    1.7 The vertical distance between the floor surface and the interior of the enclosure or canopy over 50 per cent of the floor area shall be:

    .1 not less than 1.3m for a lifeboat permitted to accommodate nine persons or less;

    .2 not less than 1.7m for a lifeboat permitted to accommodate 24 persons or more;

    .3 not less than the distance as determined by linear interpolation between 1.3m and 1.7m for a lifeboat permitted to accommodate between nine and 24 persons.

    2 Carrying capacity of lifeboats

    2.1 No lifeboat shall be approved to accommodate more than 150 persons.

    2.2 The number of persons which a lifeboat shall be permitted to accommodate shall be equal to the lesser of:

    .1 the number of persons having an average mass of 75kg, all wearing life-jackets, that can be seated in a normal position without interfering with the means of propulsion or the operation of any of the lifeboat's equipment; or

    .2 the number of spaces that can be provided on the seating arrangements in accordance with figure 1. The shapes may be overlapped as shown, provided footrests are fitted and there is sufficient room for legs and the vertical

    separation between the upper and lower seat is not less than 350mm .

    Figure 1

    2.3 Each seating position shall be clearly indicated in the lifeboat.

    3 Access into lifeboats

    3.1 Every passenger ship lifeboat shall be so arranged that it can be rapidly boarded by its full complement of persons. Rapid disembarkation shall also be possible.

    3.2 Every cargo ship lifeboat shall be so arranged that it can be boarded by its full complement of persons in not more than 3 min from the time the instruction to board is given. Rapid disembarkation shall also be possible.

    3.3 Lifeboats shall have a boarding ladder that can be used on either side of the lifeboat to enable persons in the water to board the lifeboat. The lowest step of the ladder shall be not less than 0.4 m below the lifeboat's light waterline.

    3.4 The lifeboat shall be so arranged that helpless people can be brought on board either from the sea or on stretchers.

    3.5 All surfaces on which persons might walk shall have a non-skid finish.

    4 Lifeboat buoyancy

    All lifeboats shall have inherent buoyancy or shall be fitted with inherently buoyant material which shall not be adversely affected by seawater, oil or oil products, sufficient to float the lifeboat with all its equipment on board when flooded

    and open to the sea. Additional inherently buoyant material, equal to 280N of buoyant force per person shall be provided for the number of persons the lifeboat is permitted to accommodate. Buoyant material, unless in addition to that

    required above, shall not be installed external to the hull of the lifeboat.

    5 Lifeboat freeboard and stability

    All lifeboats, when loaded with 50per cent of the number of persons the lifeboat is permitted to accommodate seated in their normal positions to one side of the centerline, shall have a freeboard, measured from the waterline to the

    lowest opening through which the lifeboat may become flooded, of at least 1.5 per cent of the lifeboat's length or 100mm, whichever is the greater.

    6 Lifeboat propulsion

    6.1 Every lifeboat shall be powered by a compression ignition engine. No engine shall be used for any lifeboat if its fuel has a flashpoint of 43°C or less (closed cup test).

    6.2 The engine shall be provided with either a manual starting system, or a power starting system with two independent rechargeable energy sources. Any necessary starting aids shall also be provided. The engine starting systems and

    starting aids shall start the engine at an ambient temperature of -15°C within 2 min of commencing the start procedure unless, in the opinion of the Administration having regard to the particular voyages in which the ship carrying the

    lifeboat is constantly engaged, a different temperature is appropriate. The starting systems shall not be impeded by the engine casing, thwarts or other obstructions.

    6.3 The engine shall be capable of operating for not less than 5 min after starting from cold with the lifeboat out of the water.

    6.4 The engine shall be capable of operating when the lifeboat is flooded up to the centerline of the crank shaft.

    6.5 The propeller shafting shall be so arranged that the propeller can be disengaged from the engine. Provision shall be made for ahead and astern propulsion of the lifeboat.

    6.6 The exhaust pipe shall be so arranged as to prevent water from entering the engine in normal operation.

    6.7 All lifeboats shall be designed with due regard to the safety of persons in the water and to the possibility of damage to the propulsion system by floating debris.

    6.8 The speed of a lifeboat when proceeding ahead in calm water, when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment and with all engine-powered auxiliary equipment in operation, shall be at least 6 knots and at least 2

    knots when towing a 25-person liferaft loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment or its equivalent. Sufficient fuel, suitable for use throughout the temperature range expected in the area in which the ship operates, shall

    be provided to run the fully loaded lifeboat at 6 knots for a period of not less than 24 h.

    6.9 The lifeboat engine, transmission and engine accessories shall be enclosed in a fire-retardant casing or other suitable arrangements providing similar protection. Such arrangements shall also protect persons from coming into

    accidental contact with hot or moving parts and protect the engine from exposure to weather and sea. Adequate means shall be provided to reduce the engine noise. Starter batteries shall be provided with casings which form a watertight

    enclosure around the bottom and sides of the batteries. The battery casings shall have a tight fitting top which provides for necessary gas venting.

    6.10 The lifeboat engine and accessories shall be designed to limit electromagnetic emissions so that engine operation does not interfere with the operation of radio life-saving appliances used in the lifeboat.

    6.11 Means shall be provided for recharging all engine-starting, radio and searchlight batteries. Radio batteries shall not be used to provide power for engine starting. Means shall be provided for recharging lifeboat batteries from the

    ship's power supply at a supply voltage not exceeding 55 V which can be disconnected at the lifeboat embarkation station.

    6.12 Water-resistant instructions for starting and operating the engine shall be provided and mounted in a conspicuous place near the engine starting controls.

    7 Lifeboat fittings

    7.1 All lifeboats shall be provided with at least one drain valve fitted near the lowest point in the hull, which shall automatically open to drain water from the hull when the lifeboat is not waterborne and shall automatically close to prevent

    entry of water when the lifeboat is waterborne. Each drain valve shall be provided with a cap or plug to close the valve, which shall be attached to the lifeboat by a lanyard, a chain, or other suitable means. Drain valves shall be readily

    accessible from inside the lifeboat and their position shall be clearly indicated.

    7.2 All lifeboats shall be provided with a rudder and tiller. When a wheel or other remote steering mechanism is also provided the tiller shall be capable of controlling the rudder in case of failure of the steering mechanism. The rudder

    shall be permanently attached to the lifeboat. The tiller shall be permanently installed on, or linked to, the rudder stock; however, if the lifeboat has a remote steering mechanism, the tiller may be removable and securely stowed near the

    rudder stock. The rudder and tiller shall be so arranged as not to be damaged by operation of the release mechanism or the propeller.

    7.3 Except in the vicinity of the rudder and propeller, a buoyant lifeline shall be becketed around the outside of the lifeboat.

    7.4 Lifeboats which are not self-righting when capsized shall have suitable handholds on the underside of the hull to enable persons to cling to the lifeboat. The handholds shall be fastened to the lifeboat in such a way that, when

    subjected to an impact sufficient to cause them to break away from the lifeboat, they break away without damaging the lifeboat.

    7.5 All lifeboats shall be fitted with sufficient watertight lockers or compartments to provide for the storage of the small items of equipment, water and provisions required by paragraph 8. Means shall be provided for the storage of

    collected rainwater.

    7.6 Every lifeboat to be launched by a fall or falls shall be fitted with a release mechanism complying with the following requirements:

    .1 The mechanism shall be so arranged that all hooks are released simultaneously .

    .2 The mechanism shall have two release capabilities as follows:

    .2.1 a normal release capability which will release the lifeboat when it is waterborne or when there is no load on the hooks;

    .2.2 an on-load release capability which will release the lifeboat with a load on the hooks. This release shall be so arranged as to release the lifeboat under any conditions of loading from no-load with the lifeboat waterborne to a

    load of 1.1 times the total mass of the lifeboat when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment. This release capability shall be adequately protected against accidental or premature use.

    .3 The release control shall be clearly marked in a colour that contrasts with its surroundings.

    .4 The mechanism shall be designed with a factor of safety of 6 based on the ultimate strength of the materials used, assuming the mass of the lifeboat is equally distributed between the falls.

    7.7 Every lifeboat shall be fitted with a release device to enable the forward painter to be released when under tension.

    7.8 Every lifeboat which is fitted with a fixed two-way VHF radiotelephone apparatus with an antenna which is separately mounted shall be provided with arrangements for siting and securing the antenna effectively in its operating

    position.

    7.9 Lifeboats intended for launching down the side of a ship shall have skates and fenders as necessary to facilitate launching and prevent damage to the lifeboat.

    7.10 A manually controlled lamp visible on a dark night with a clear atmosphere at a distance of at least 2 miles for a period of not less than 12 h shall be fitted to the top of the cover or enclosure. If the light is a flashing light, it shall

    initially flash at a rate of not less than 50 flashes per minute over the first 2 h of operation of the 12 h operating period.

    7.11 A lamp or source of light shall be fitted inside the lifeboat to provide illumination for not less than 12 h to enable reading of survival and equipment instructions; however, oil lamps shall not be permitted for this purpose.

    7.12 Unless expressly provided otherwise, every lifeboat shall be provided with effective means of bailing or be automatically self-bailing.

    7.13 Every lifeboat shall be so arranged that an adequate view forward, aft and to both sides is provided from the control and steering position for safe launching and manoeuvring.

    8 Lifeboat equipment

    All items of lifeboat equipment, whether required by this paragraph or elsewhere in this chapter, with the exception of boat-hooks which shall be kept free for fending off purposes, shall be secured within the lifeboat by lashings, storage

    in lockers or compartments, storage in brackets or similar mounting arrangements or other suitable means. The equipment shall be secured in such a manner as not to interfere with any abandonment procedures. All items of lifeboat

    equipment shall be as small and of as little mass as possible and shall be packed in a suitable and compact form. Except where otherwise stated, the normal equipment of every lifeboat shall consist of:

    .1 sufficient buoyant oars to make headway in calm seas. Thole pins, crutches or equivalent arrangements shall be provided for each oar provided. Thole pins or crutches shall be attached to the boat by lanyards or chains;

    .2 two boat-hooks;

    .3 a buoyant bailer and two buckets;

    .4 a survival manual;

    .5 a binnacle containing an efficient compass which is luminous or provided with suitable means of illumination. In a totally enclosed lifeboat, the binnacle shall be permanently fitted at the steering position; in any other lifeboat, it

    shall be provided with suitable mounting arrangements;

    .6 a sea-anchor of adequate size fitted with a shock-resistant hawser and a tripping line which provides a firm hand grip when wet. The strength of the sea-anchor, hawser and tripping line shall be adequate for all sea conditions;

    .7 two efficient painters of a length equal to not less than twice the distance from the stowage position of the lifeboat to the waterline in the lightest seagoing condition or 15 m, whichever is the greater. One painter attached to the

    release device required by regulation 41.7.7 shall be placed at the forward end of the lifeboat and the other shall be firmly secured at or near the bow of the lifeboat ready for use;

    .8 two hatchets, one at each end of the lifeboat;

    .9 watertight receptacles containing a total of 3 l of fresh water for each person the lifeboat is permitted to accommodate, of which 1 l per person may be replaced by a de-salting apparatus capable of producing an equal amount of

    fresh water in 2 days;

    .10 a rustproof dipper with lanyard;

    .11 a rustproof graduated drinking vessel;

    .12 a food ration totalling not less than 10,000 kJ for each person the lifeboat is permitted to accommodate; these rations shall be kept in airtight packaging and be stowed in a watertight container;

    .13 four rocket parachute flares complying with the requirements of regulation 35;

    .14 six hand flares complying with the requirements of regulation 36;

    .15 two buoyant smoke signals complying with the requirements of regulation 37;

    .16 one waterproof electric torch suitable for Morse signalling together with one spare set of batteries and one spare bulb in a waterproof container;

    .17 one daylight signalling mirror with instructions for its use for signalling to ships and aircraft;

    .18 one copy of the life-saving signals prescribed by regulation V/16 on a waterproof card or in a waterproof container;

    .19 one whistle or equivalent sound signal;

    .20 a first-aid outfit in a waterproof case capable of being closed tightly after use;

    .21 six doses of anti-seasickness medicine and one seasickness bag for each person;

    .22 a jack-knife to be kept attached to the boat by a lanyard;

    .23 three tin openers;

    .24 two buoyant rescue quoits, attached to not less than 30m of buoyant line;

    .25 a manual pump;

    .26 one set of fishing tackle;

    .27 sufficient tools for minor adjustments to the engine and its accessories;

    .28 portable fire-extinguishing equipment suitable for extinguishing oil fires;

    .29 a searchlight capable of effectively illuminating a light-coloured object at night having a width of 18m at a distance of 180m for a total period of 6h and of working for not less than 3h continuously;

    .30 an efficient radar reflector, unless a survival craft radar transponder is stowed in the lifeboat;

    .31 thermal protective aids complying with the requirements of regulation 34 sufficient for 10per cent of the number of persons the lifeboat is permitted to accommodate or two, whichever is the greater.

    .32 In the case of ships engaged on voyages of such a nature and duration that, in the opinion of the Administration, the items specified in paragraphs 8.12 and 8.26 are unnecessary, the Administration may allow these items to be

    dispensed with.

    Title SOLAS 2001-2003 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 1

    Effective Date 1-1-2004

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2004

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    CHAPTER IV

    Radiocommunications

    Part A - GENERAL

    Regulation 1

    Application

    1 Unless expressly otherwise, this chapter applies to all ships to which the present regulations apply and to cargo ships of 300 tons gross tonnage and upwards.

    2 This chapter does not apply to ships to which the present regulations would otherwise apply while such ships are being navigated within the Great Lakes of North America and their connecting and tributary waters as far east as the lower

    exit of the St. Lambert Lock at Montreal in the Province of Quebec, Canada.*

    * Such ships are subject to special requirements relative to radio for safety purposes, as contained in the relevant agreement between Canada and the United States of America.

    3 No provision in this chapter shall prevent the use by any ship, survival craft or person in distress, of any means at their disposal to attract attention, make known their position and obtain help.

    Title SOLAS 2018 Amendment (99th) / CHAPTER IV / Reg. 2

    Effective Date 1-1-2020

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 2

    Terms and definitions

    1 For the purpose of this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings defined below:

    .1 Bridge-to-bridge communications means safety communications bet- ween ships from the position from which the ships are normally navigated.

    .2 Continuous watch means that the radio watch concerned shall not be interrupted other than for brief intervals when the ship's receiving capability is impaired or blocked by its own communications or when the facilities are under

    periodical maintenance or checks.

    .3 Digital selective calling(DSC) means a technique using digital codes which enables a radio station to establish contact with, and transfer information to, another station or group of stations, and complying with the relevant

    recommendations of the International Radio Consultative Committee(CCIR).*

    * The name of the Committee was changed to "ITU Radio communication Sector"(ITU-R) due to Article 1 of the International Telecommunication constitution, Geneva, 1922.

    .4 Direct-printing telegraphy means automated telegraphy techniques which comply with the relevant recommendations of the International Radio Consultative committee(CCIR).*

    * Such ships are subject to special requirements relative to radio for safety purposes, as contained in the relevant agreement between Canada and the United States of America.

    .5 General radiocommunications means operational and public correspondence traffic, other than distress, urgency and safety messages, conducted by radio.

    .6 INMARSAT** means the Organization established by the Convention on the International Maritime Satellite Organization(INMARSAT) adopted on 3 September 1976.

    ** The name of the Organization was changed to "International Mobile Satellite Organization (Inmarsat) by virtue of amendments to its Convention and Operating Agreement adopted by the tenth(extraordinary) Assembly (5 to 9

    December 1994)

    .7 International NAVTEX Service means the co-ordinated broadcast and automatic reception on 518 kHz of maritime safety information by means of narrow-band direct-printing telegraphy using the English language.***

    *** Reference is made to the NAVTEX manual approved by the Organization(publication IMO-951E)

    .8 Locating means the finding of ships, aircraft, units or persons in distress.

    .9 Maritime safety information means navigational and meteorological warnings, meteorological forecasts and other urgent safety related messages broadcast to ships.

    .10 Polar orbiting satellite service means a service which is based on polar orbiting satellites which receive and relay distress alerts from satellite EPIRBs and which provides their position.

    .11 Radio Regulations means the Radio Regulations annexed to, or regarded as being annexed to, the most recent International Telecommunication Convention which is in force at any time.

    .12 Sea area A1 means an area within the radiotelephone coverage of at least one VHF coast station in which continuous DSC alerting is available, as may be defined by a Contracting Government.****

    **** Refer to resolution A 801(19) concerning provision of radio services for the global maritime distress and safety system(GMDSS), adopted by the Organization

    .13 Sea area A2 means an area, excluding sea area A1, within the radiotelephone coverage of at least one MF coast station in which continuous DSC alerting is available, as may be defined by a Contracting Government.****

    **** Refer to resolution A 801(19) concerning provision of radio services for the global maritime distress and safety system(GMDSS), adopted by the Organization

    .14 Sea area A3 means an area, excluding sea areas A1 and A2, within the coverage of an INMARSAT geostationary satellite in which continuous alerting is available.

    .15 Sea area A4 means an area outside sea areas A1, A2, and A3

    .16 Global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) identities means maritime mobile services identity, the ship's call sign, recognized mobile satellite service identities and serial number identity which may be transmitted by the

    ship's equipment and used to identify the ship.( Amended by Res.MSC.436(99))

    .17 Recognized mobile satellite service means any service which operates through a satellite system and is recognized by the Organization, for use in the global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS).( Added

    by Res.MSC.436(99))

    2 All other terms and abbreviations which are used in this chapter and which are defined in the Radio Regulation and in the International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR), 1979, as may be amended, shall have the

    meanings as defined in those Regulations and the SAR Convention.

    Title SOLAS 2001-2003 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 3

    Effective Date 1-1-2004

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2004

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 3

    Exemptions

    1 The Contracting Governments consider it highly desirable not to deviate from the requirements of this chapter; nevertheless the Administration may grant partial or conditional exemptions to individual ships from the requirements of

    regulations 7 to 11 provided:

    .1 such ships comply with the functional requirements of regulation 4; and

    .2 the Administration has taken into account the effect such exemptions may have upon the general efficiency of the service for the safety of all ships.

    2 An exemption may be granted under paragraph 1 only:

    .1 if the conditions affecting safety are such as to render the full application of regulations 7 to 11 unreasonable or unnecessary; or

    .2 in exceptional circumstances, for a single voyage outside the sea area or sea areas for which the ship is equipped.

    3 Each Administration shall submit to the Organization, as soon as possible after the first of January in each year, a report showing all exemptions granted under paragraphs 1 and 2 during the previous calendar year and giving the reasons

    for granting such exemptions.

    Title SOLAS 2001-2003 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 4

    Effective Date 1-1-2004

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2004

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 4

    Functional requirements*

    *It should be noted that ships performing GMDSS functions should be use the Guidance for avoidance of false distress alerts adopted by the Organization by resolution A.814(19).

    1 Every ship, while at sea, shall be capable:

    .1 except as provided in regulations 8.1.1 and 10.1.4.3, of transmitting ship-to-shore distress alerts by at least two separate and independent means, each using a different radiocommunication service;

    .2 of receiving shore-to-ship distress alerts;

    .3 of transmitting and receiving ship-to-ship distress alerts;

    .4 of transmitting and receiving search and rescue co-ordinating communications;

    .5 of transmitting and receiving on-scene communications;

    .6 of transmitting and, as required by regulation V/19.2.3.2, receiving signals for locating; **

    ** Refer to resolution A.614(15) concerning carriage of radar operating in the frequency band 9,300-9,500MHz.

    .7 of transmitting and receiving *** maritime safety information;

    ***It should be noted that ships may have a need for reception of certain maritime safety information while in port.

    .8 of transmitting and receiving general radio communications to and from shore-based radio systems or networks subject to regulation 15.8; and

    .9 of transmitting and receiving bridge-to-bridge communications.

    Title SOLAS 2007 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 4-1

    Effective Date 1-7-2009

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2009

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note This regulation enters into force on 1 July 2009.

    Regulation 4-1 ( Added by Res.MSC.239(83))

    GMDSS satellite providers

    The Maritime Safety Committee shall determine the criteria, procedures and arrangements for the evaluation, recognition, review and oversight of the provision of mobile satellite communication services in the Global Maritime Distress

    and Safety System(GMDSS) pursuant to the provisions of this chapter.*

    * Refer to Criteria for the provision of mobile satellite communication systems in the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) (resolution A.1001(25)) and Guidance to prospective GMDSS satellite service providers

    (MSC.1/Circ.1414)

    Title SOLAS 1988 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 5

    Effective Date 1-2-1992

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-2-1992

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    PART B - UNDERTAKINGS BY CONTRACTING GOVERNMENTS *

    * 1. Each Contracting Government is not required to provide all radiocommunication services.

    2. The requirements should be specified for shore-based facilities to cover the various sea areas.

    Regulation 5

    Provision of radiocommunication services

    1 Each Contracting Government undertakes to make available, as it deems practical and necessary either individually or in co-operation with other Contracting Governments, appropriate shore-based facilities for space and terrestrial

    radiocommunication services having due regard to the recommendations of the Organization**. These services are:

    ** Refer to the resolution A.801(19) concerning provision of radio services for the global maritime distress and safety system(GMDSS).

    .1 a radiocommunication service utilizing geostationary satellites in the Maritime Mobile-Satellite Service;

    .2 a radio communication service utilizing polar orbiting satellites in the Mobile-Satellite Service;

    .3 the Maritime Mobile Service in the bands between 156MHz and 174MHz;

    .4 the Maritime Mobile Service in the bands between 4,000kHz and 27,500kHz; and

    .5 the Maritime Mobile Service in the bands between 415kHz and 535kHz*** and between 1,605kHz and 4,000kHz.

    *** Refer to the resolution A.617(15) concerning implementation of the NAVTEX system as a component of the World-Wide Service, adopted by the Organization.

    2 Each Contracting Government undertakes to provide the Organization with pertinent information concerning the shore-based facilities in the Maritime Mobile Service, Mobile-Satellite Service and Maritime Mobile-Satellite Service,

    established for sea areas which it has designated off its coasts****.

    **** the Master Plan of the shore-based facilities for the GMDSS based on information provided by Contracting Governments is circulated to all concerned by means of GMDSS circulars.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 5-1

    Effective Date 1-7-2002

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2002

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 5-1

    Global Maritime Distress and Safety System identities

    1 This regulation applies to all ships on all voyages.

    2 Each Contracting Government undertakes to ensure that suitable arrangements are made for registering Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) identities and for making information on these identities available to rescue coordination

    centres on a 24-hour basis. Where appropriate, international organizations maintaining a registry of these identities shall be notified by the Contracting Government of these assignments.

    Title SOLAS 1994/1995 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 6

    Effective Date 1-7-1997

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-1997

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Part C - Ship requirements

    Regulation 6

    Radio installations

    1 Every ship shall be provided with radio installations capable of complying with the functional requirements prescribed by regulation 4 throughout its intended voyage and, unless exempted under regulation 3, complying with the

    requirements of regulation 7 and, as appropriate for the sea area or areas through which it will pass during its intended voyage, the requirements of either regulation 8, 9, 10 or 11.

    2 Every radio installation shall :

    .1 be so located that no harmful interference of mechanical, electrical or other origin affects its proper use, and so as to ensure electro-magnetic compatibility and avoidance of harmful interaction with other equipment and systems ;

    .2 be so located as to ensure the greatest possible degree of safety and operational availability ;

    .3 be protected against harmful effects of water, extremes of temperature and other adverse environmental conditions ;

    .4 be provided with reliable, permanently arranged electrical lighting, independent of the main and emergency sources of electrical power, for the adequate illumination of the radio controls for operating the radio installation ; and

    .5 be clearly marked with the call sign, the ship station identity and other codes as applicable for the use of the radio installation.

    3 Control of the VHF radiotelephone channels, required for navigational safety, shall be immediately available on the navigating bridge convenient to the conning position and, where necessary, facilities should be available to permit

    radiocommunications from the wings of the navigating bridge. Portable VHF equipment may be used to meet the latter provision.

    4 In passenger ships, a distress panel shall be installed at the conning position. This panel shall contain either one single button which, when pressed, initiates a distress alert using all radiocommunication installations required on board for

    that purpose or one button for each individual installation. The panel shall clearly and visually indicate whenever any button or button or buttons have been pressed. Means shall be provided to prevent inadvertant activation of the button or

    buttons. If the satellite EPIRB is used as the secondary means of distress alerting and is not remotely activated, it shall be acceptable to have an additional EPIRB installed in the wheelhouse near the conning position.

    5 In passenger ships, information on the ship's position shall be continuously and automatically provided to all relevant radiocommunication equipment to be included in the initial distress alert when the button or buttons on the distress

    panel is pressed.

    6 In passenger ships, a distress alarm panel shall be installed at the conning position. The distress alarm panel shall provide visual and audible indication of any distress alert or alerts received on board and shall also indicate through which

    radiocommunication service the distress alerts have been received.

    Title SOLAS 2001-2003 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 7.1.1

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2004

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Part C -Ship requirements

    Regulation 7

    Radio equipment-General

    1 Every ship shall be provided with :

    .1 a VHF radio installation capable of transmitting and receiving ;

    .1.1 DSC on the frequency 156.525 MHz(channel 70). It shall be possible to initiate the transmission of distress alerts on channel 70 from the position from which the ship is normally navigated ; * and

    *Certain ships may be exempted from this requirement (see regulation 9.4)

    .1.2 radiotelephony on the frequencies 156.300 MHz (channel 6), 156.650 MHz (channel 13) and 156.800 MHz (channel 16) ;

    Title SOLAS 2001-2003 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 7.1.2

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2004

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    .2 a radio installation capable of maintaining a continuous DSC watch on VHF channel 70 which may be separate from, or combined with, that required by subparagraph .1.1 ; *

    *Certain ships may be exempted from this requirement (see regulation 9.4)

    Title SOLAS 2008 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 7.1.3

    Effective Date 1-1-2010

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2010

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    .3 a search and rescue locating device capable of operating either in the 9 GHz band or on frequencies dedicated for AIS, which: ( Added by Res.MSC.256(84))

    .3.1 shall be so stowed that it can be easily utilized ; and

    .3.2 may be one of those required by regulation III/6.2.2 for a survival craft;

    Title SOLAS 2001-2003 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 7.1.4

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2004

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    .4 a receiver capable of receiving International NAVTEX service broad-casts if the ship is engaged on voyages in any area in which an International NAVTEX service is provided;

    Title SOLAS 2018 Amendment (99th) / CHAPTER IV / Reg. 7.1.5

    Effective Date 1-1-2020

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2020

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    .5 a radio facility for reception of maritime safety information by a recognized mobile satellite service enhanced group calling system if the ship is engaged in voyages in sea area A1, or A2 or A3 but in which an international NAVTEX

    service is not provided. However, ships engaged exclusively in voyages in areas where an HF direct-printing telegraphy maritime safety information service is provided and fitted with equipment capable of receiving such service, may be

    exempt from this requirement.*( Amended by Res.MSC.436(99))

    * Refer to the Recommendation on promulgation of maritime safety information adopted by the Organization by resolution A.705(17), as amended.

    Title SOLAS 2006 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 7.1.6

    Effective Date 1-7-2010

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2010

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    .6 subject to the provisions of regulation 8.3, a satellite emergency position-indicating radio beacon (satellite EPIRB)* which shall be :

    * Refer to resolution A.616(15) concerning search and rescue homing capability, adopted by the Organization

    .6.1 capable of transmitting a distress alert through the polar orbiting satellite service operating in the 406 MHz band; ( Replaced by Res.MSC.201(81))

    .6.2 installed in an easily accessible position ;

    .6.3 ready to be manually released and capable of being carried by one person into a survival craft ;

    .6.4 capable of floating free if the ship sinks and of being automatically activated when afloat ; and

    .6.5 capable of being activated manually.

    Title SOLAS 2001-2003 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 7.2

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2004

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    2 Every passenger ship shall be provided with means for two-way on-scene radiocommunications for search and rescue purposes using the aeronautical frequencies 121.5MHz and 123.1MHz from the position from which the ship is normally

    navigated.

    Title SOLAS 2018 Amendment (99th) / CHAPTER IV / Reg. 8

    Effective Date 1-1-2020

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2020

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 8

    Radio equipment - Sea area A1

    1 In addition to meeting the requirements of regulation 7, every ship engaged on voyages exclusively in sea area A1 shall be provided with a radio installation capable of initiating the transmission of ship-to-shore distress alerts from the

    position from which the ship is normally navigated, operating either:

    .1 on VHF using DSC; this requirement may be fulfilled by the EPIRB prescribed by paragraph 3, either by installing the EPIRB close to, or by remote activation from, the position from which the ship is normally navigated; or

    .2 through the polar orbiting satellite service on 406MHz; this requirement may be fulfilled by the satellite EPIRB, required by regulation 7.1.6, either by installing the satellite EPIRB close to, or by remote activation from, the position

    from which the ship is normally navigated; or

    .3 if the ship is engaged on voyages within coverage of MF coast stations equipped with DSC, on MF using DSC; or

    .4 on HF using DSC; or

    .5 through a recognized mobile satellite service; this requirement may be fulfilled by:( Amended by Res.MSC.436(99))

    .5.1 a ship earth station;* or

    * This requirement can be met by recognized mobile satellite service ship earth stations capable of two-way communications, such as Fleet-77 (resolutions A.808(19) and MSC.130(75)) or Inmarsat-C (resolution A.807(19), as

    amended) ship earth stations. Unless otherwise specified, this footnote applies to all requirements for a recognized mobile satellite service ship earth station prescribed by this chapter."

    .5.2 the satellite EPIRB, required by regulation 7.1.6, either by installing the satellite EPIRB close to, or by remote activation from, the position from which the ship is normally navigated.

    2 The VHF radio installation, required by regulation 7.1.1, shall also be capable of transmitting and receiving general radio communications using radiotelephony.

    3 Ships engaged on voyages exclusively in sea area A1 may carry, in lieu of the satellite EPIRB required by regulation 7.1.6, an EPIRB which shall be:

    .1 capable of transmitting a distress alert using DSC on VHF channel 70 and providing for locating by means of a radar transponder operating in the 9GHz band;

    .2 installed in an easily accessible position;

    .3 ready to be manually released and capable of being carried by one person into a survival craft;

    .4 capable of floating free if the ship sinks and being automatically activated when afloat; and

    .5 capable of being activated manually.

    Title SOLAS 2018 Amendment (99th) / CHAPTER IV / Reg. 9

    Effective Date 1-1-2020

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2020

    Regulation 9

    Radio equipment - Sea areas A1 and A2

    1 In addition to meeting the requirements of regulation 7, every ship engaged on voyages beyond sea area A1, but remaining within sea area A2, shall be provided with:

    .1 an MF radio installation capable of transmitting and receiving, for distress and safety purposes, on the frequencies:

    .1.1 2,187.5kHz using DSC; and

    .1.2 2,182kHz using radiotelephony;

    .2 a radio installation capable of maintaining a continuous DSC watch on the frequency 2,187.5kHz which may be separate from, or combined with, that required by subparagraph .1.1; and

    .3 means of initiating the transmission of ship-to-shore distress alerts by a radio service other than MF operating either:

    .3.1 through the polar orbiting satellite service on 406 MHz; this requirement may be fulfilled by the satellite EPIRB, required by regulation 7.1.6, either by installing the satellite EPIRB close to, or by remote activation from, the

    position from which the ship is normally navigated; or

    .3.2 on HF using DSC; or

    .3.3 through a recognized mobile satellite service by a ship earth station.( Amended by Res.MSC.436(99))

    2 It shall be possible to initiate transmission of distress alerts by the radio installations specified in paragraphs 1.1 and 1.3 from the position from which the ship is normally navigated.

    3 The ship shall, in addition, be capable of transmitting and receiving general radio communications using radiotelephony or direct-printing telegraphy by either:

    .1 a radio installation operating on working frequencies in the bands between 1,605kHz and 4,000kHz or between 4,000kHz and 27,500kHz. This requirement may be fulfilled by the addition of this capability in the equipment required by

    paragraph 1.1; or

    .2 a recognized mobile satellite service ship earth station.( Amended by Res.MSC.436(99))

    4 The Administration may exempt ships constructed before 1 February 1997, which are engaged exclusively on voyages within sea area A2, from the requirements of regulations 7.1.1.1 and 7.1.2 provided such ships maintain, when

    practicable, a continuous listening watch on VHF channel 16. This watch shall be kept at the position from which the ship is normally navigated.

    Title SOLAS 2018 Amendment (99th) / CHAPTER IV / Reg. 10

    Effective Date 1-1-2020

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2020

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 10

    Radio equipment - Sea areas A1, A2 and A3

    1 In addition to meeting the requirements of regulation 7, every ship engaged on voyages beyond sea areas A1 and A2, but remaining within sea area A3, shall, if it does not comply with the requirements of paragraph 2, be provided with :

    .1 a recognized mobile satellite service ship earth station capable of:( Amended by Res.MSC.436(99))

    .1.1 transmitting and receiving distress and safety communications using direct-printing telegraphy;

    .1.2 initiating and receiving distress priority calls;

    .1.3 maintaining watch for shore-to-ship distress alerts, including those directed to specifically defined geographical areas;

    .1.4 transmitting and receiving general radio communications, using either radiotelephony or direct-printing telegraphy; and

    .2 an MF radio installation capable of transmitting and receiving, for distress and safety purposes, on the frequencies:

    .2.1 2,187.5kHz using DSC; and

    .2.2 2,182kHz using radiotelephony; and

    .3 a radio installation capable of maintaining a continuous DSC watch on the frequency 2,187.5kHz which may be separate from or combined with that required by subparagraph .2.1; and

    .4 means of initiating the transmission of ship-to-shore distress alerts by a radio service operating either:

    .4.1 through the polar orbiting satellite service on 406MHz; this requirement may be fulfilled by the satellite EPIRB, required by regulation 7.1.6, either by installing the satellite EPIRB close to, or by remote activation from, the position

    from which the ship is normally navigated; or

    .4.2 on HF using DSC; or

    .4.3 through a recognized mobile satellite service by an additional ship earth station.( Amended by Res.MSC.436(99))

    2 In addition to meeting the requirements of regulation 7, every ship engaged on voyages beyond sea areas A1 and A2, but remaining within sea area A3, shall, if it does not comply with the requirements of paragraph 1, be provided with:

    .1 an MF/HF radio installation capable of transmitting and receiving, for distress and safety purposes, on all distress and safety frequencies in the bands between 1,605kHz and 4,000kHz and between 4,000kHz and 27,500kHz:

    .1.1 using DSC;

    .1.2 using radiotelephony; and

    .1.3 using direct-printing telegraphy; and

    .2 equipment capable of maintaining DSC watch on 2,187.5kHz, 8,414.5kHz and on at least one of the distress and safety DSC frequencies 4,207.5kHz, 6312kHz, 12,577 kHz or 16,804.5kHz; at any time, it shall be possible to select any

    of these DSC distress and safety frequencies. This equipment may be separate from, or combined with the equipment required by subparagraph .1; and

    .3 means of initiating the transmission of ship-to-shore distress alerts by a radio communication service other than HF operating either:

    .3.1 through the polar orbiting satellite service on 406 MHz; this requirement may be fulfilled by the satellite EPIRB, required by regulation 7.1.6, either by installing the satellite EPIRB close to, or by remote activation from, the

    position from which the ship is normally navigated; or

    .3.2 through a recognized mobile satellite service by a ship earth station; and( Amended by Res.MSC.436(99))

    .4 in addition, ships shall be capable of transmitting and receiving general radio communications using radiotelephony or direct-printing telegraphy by an MF/HF radio installation operating on working frequencies in the bands between

    1,605 kHz and 4,000kHz and between 4,000kHz and 27,500kHz. This requirement may be fulfilled by the addition of this capability in the equipment required by subparagraph .1

    3 It shall be possible to initiate transmission of distress alerts by the radio installations specified in subparagraphs 1.1, 1.2, 1.4, 2.1 and 2.3 from the position from which the ship is normally navigated.

    4 The Administration may exempt ships constructed before 1 February 1997, and engaged exclusively on voyages within sea areas A2 and A3, from the requirements of regulations 7.1.1.1 and 7.1.2 provided such ships maintain, when

    practicable, a continuous listening watch on VHF channel 16. This watch shall be kept at the position from which the ship is normally navigated.

    Title SOLAS 1988 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 11

    Effective Date 1-2-1992

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-2-1992

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 11

    Radio equipment - Sea areas A1, A2, A3 and A4

    1 In addition to meeting the requirements of regulation 7, ships engaged on voyages in all sea areas shall be provided with the radio installations and equipment required by regulation 10.2, except that the equipment required by regulation

    10.2.3.2 shall not be accepted as an alternative to that required by regulation 10.2.3.1, which shall always be provided. In addition, ships engaged on voyages in all sea areas shall comply with the requirements of regulation 10.3.

    2 The Administration may exempt ships constructed before 1 February 1997, and engaged exclusively on voyages within sea areas A2, A3 and A4, from the requirements of regulations 7.1.1 and 7.1.2 provided such ships maintain, when

    practicable, a continuous listening watch on VHF channel 16. This watch shall be kept at the position from which the ship is normally navigated.

    Title SOLAS 2018 Amendment (99th) / CHAPTER IV / Reg. 12

    Effective Date 1-1-2020

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2020

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 12

    Watches

    1 Every ship, while at sea, shall maintain a continuous watch:

    .1 on VHF DSC channel 70, if the ship, in accordance with the requirements of regulation 7.1.2, is fitted with a VHF radio installation;

    .2 on the distress and safety DSC frequency 2,187.5 kHz, if the ship, in accordance with the requirements of regulation 9.1.2 or 10.1.3, is fitted with an MF radio installation;

    .3 on the distress and safety DSC frequencies 2,187.5 kHz and 8,414.5 kHz and also on at least one of the distress and safety DSC frequencies 4,207.5 kHz, 6,312 kHz, 12,577 kHz or 16,804.5 kHz, appropriate to the time of day and the

    geographical position of the ship, if the ship, in accordance with the requirements of regulation 10.2.2 or 11.1, is fitted with an MF/HF radio installation. This watch may be kept by means of a scanning receiver;

    .4 for satellite shore-to-ship distress alerts, if the ship, in accordance with the requirements of regulation 10.1.1, is fitted with a recognized mobile satellite service ship earth station.( Amended by Res.MSC.436(99))

    2 Every ship, while at sea, shall maintain a radio watch for broadcasts of maritime safety information on the appropriate frequency or frequencies on which such information is broadcast for the area in which the ship is navigating.

    3 Until 1 February 1999 or until such other date as may be determined by the Maritime Safety Committee*, every ship while at sea shall maintain, when practicable, a continuous listening watch on VHF channel 16. This watch shall be kept

    at the position from which the ship is normally navigated.

    * Refer to Maintenance of a continuous listening watch on VHF channel 16 by SOLAS ships whilst at sea after 1 February 1999 and installation of VHF facilities on non-SOLAS ships (resolution MSC.131(75)).

    Title SOLAS 1988 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 13

    Effective Date 1-2-1992

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-2-1992

    Invalid from 11-4-1989

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note - The reason for this paradox is a result that the regulation adopted on 9 November 1988 and never came into force as it reads here. The regulation was again

    amended on11 April 1989 by Res.MSC.13(57) with a same effective date.

    Regulation 13

    Sources of energy

    1 There shall be available at all times, while the ship is at sea, a supply of electrical energy sufficient to operate the radio installations and to charge any batteries used as part of a reserve source or sources of energy for the radio

    installations.

    2 A reserve source or sources of energy shall be provided on every ship, to supply radio installations, for the purpose of conducting distress and safety radio communications, in the event of failure of the ship's main and emergency sources

    of electrical power. The reserve source or sources of energy shall be capable of simultaneously operating the VHF radio installation required by regulation 7.1.1 and, as appropriate for the sea area or sea areas for which the ship is equipped,

    either the MF radio installation required by regulation 9.1.1, the MF/HF radio installation required by regulation 10.2.1 or 11.1, or the INMARSAT ship earth station required by regulation 10.1.1 and any of the additional loads mentioned in

    paragraphs 4, 5 and 8 for a period of at least:

    .1 one hour, on ships constructed on or after 1 February 1995;

    .2 one hour, on ships constructed before 1 February 1995, if the emergency source of electrical power complies fully with all relevant requirements of regulation II-1/42 or 43 including the requirements to supply to the radio installations

    ; and

    .3 six hours, on ships constructed before 1 February 1995, if the emergency source of electrical power is not provided or does not comply fully with all relevant requirements of regulation II-1/42 or 43 including the requirements to supply

    to the radio installations*

    * For guidance, the following formula is recommended for determining the electrical load to be supplied by the reserve source of energy for each radio installation required for distress conditions: 1/2 of the current consumption necessary

    for transmission + the current consumption necessary for receiption + current consumption of any additional loads.

    3 The reserve source or sources of energy shall be independent of the propelling power of the ship and the ship's electrical system.

    4 Where, in addition to the VHF radio installation, two or more of the other radio installations, referred to in paragraph 2, can be connected to the reserve source or sources of energy, they shall be capable of simultaneously supplying, for

    the period specified, as appropriate, in paragraph 2.1, 2.2 or 2.3, the VHF radio installation and:

    .1 all other radio installations which can be connected to the reserve source or sources of energy at the same time; or

    .2 whichever of the other radio installations will consume the most power, if only one of the other radio installations can be connected to the reserve source or sources of energy at the same time as the VHF radio installation.

    5 The reserve source or sources of energy may be used to supply the electrical lighting required by regulation 6.2.4.

    6 Where a reserve source of energy consists of a rechargeable accumulator battery or batteries:

    .1 a means of automatically charging such batteries shall be provided which shall be capable of recharging them to minimum capacity requirements within 10 hours; and

    .2 the capacity of the battery or batteries shall be checked, using an appropriate method *, at intervals not exceeding 12 months, when the ship is not at sea.

    * One method of checking the capacity of an accumulator battery is to fully discharge and recharge the battery, using normal operating current and period (e.g. 10 hours). Assessment of the charge condition can be made at any time, but

    it should be done without significant discharge of the battery when the ship is at sea.

    7 The siting and installation of accumulator batteries which provide a reserve energy shall be such as to ensure:

    .1 the highest degree of service;

    .2 a reasonable lifetime;

    .3 reasonable safety;

    .4 that battery temperatures remain within the manufacturer's specifications whether under charge or idle; and

    .5 that when fully charged, the batteries will provide at least the minimum required hours of operation under all weather conditions.

    8 If an uninterrupted input of information from the ship's navigational or other equipment to a radio installation required by this chapter is needed to ensure its proper performance, means shall be provided to ensure the continuous supply

    of such information in the event of failure of the ship's main or emergency source of electrical power.

    Title SOLAS 2018 Amendment (99th) / CHAPTER IV / Reg. 13

    Effective Date 1-1-2020

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2020

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 13

    Sources of energy

    1 There shall be available at all times, while the ship is at sea, a supply of electrical energy sufficient to operate the radio installations and to charge any batteries used as part of a reserve source or sources of energy for the radio

    installations.

    2 A reserve source or sources of energy shall be provided on every ship, to supply radio installations, for the purpose of conducting distress and safety radiocommunications, in the event of failure of the ship's main and emergency sources of

    electrical power. The reserve source or sources of energy shall be capable of simultaneously operating the VHF radio installation required by regulation 7.1.1 and, as appropriate for the sea area or sea areas for which the ship is equipped,

    either the MF radio installation required by regulation 9.1.1, the MF/HF radio installation required by regulation 10.2.1 or 11.1, or the INMARSAT ship earth station required by regulation 10.1.1 and any of the additional loads mentioned in

    paragraphs 4, 5 and 8 for a period of at least:( Deleted by Res.MSC.436(99))

    .1 one hour on ships provided with an emergency source of electrical power, if such source of power complies fully with all relevant provisions of regulation II-1/42 or 43, including the supply of such power to the radio installations;and

    .2 six hours on ships not provided with an emergency source of electrical power complying fully with all relevant provisions of regulation II-1/42, or 43, including the supply of such power to the radio installations.*

    * For guidance, the following formula is recommended for determining the electrical load to be supplied by the reserve source of energy for each radio installation required for distress conditions : 1/2 of the current consumption necessary

    for transmission + the current consumption necessary for reception + the current consumption of any additional loads.

    The reserve source or sources of energy need not supply independent HF and MF radio installations at the same time.

    3 The reserve source or sources of energy shall be independent of the propelling power of the ship and the ship's electrical system.

    4 Where, in addition to the VHF radio installation, two or more of the other radio installations, referred to in paragraph 2, can be connected to the reserve source or sources of energy, they shall be capable of simultaneously supplying, for

    the period specified, as appropriate, in paragraph 2.1 or 2.2, the VHF radio installation and:

    .1 all other radio installations which can be connected to the reserve source or sources of energy at the same time;or

    .2 whichever of the other radio installations will consume the most power, if only one of the other radio installations can be connected to the reserve source or sources of energy at the same time as the VHF radio installation.

    5 The reserve source or sources of energy may be used to supply the electrical lighting required by regulation 6.2.4.

    6 Where a reserve source of energy consists of a rechargeable accumulator battery or batteries:

    .1 a means of automatically charging such batteries shall be provided which shall be capable of recharging them to minimum capacity requirements within 10 hours; and

    .2 the capacity of the battery or batteries shall be checked, using an appropriate method**, at intervals not exceeding 12 months, when the ship is not at sea.

    ** One method of checking the capacity of an accumulator battery is to fully discharge and recharge the battery, using normal operating current and period(e.g. 10 hours). Assessment of the charge condition can be made at any time,

    but it should be done without significant discharge of the battery when the ship is at sea

    7 The siting and installation of accumulator batteries which provide a reserve source of energy shall be such as to ensure:

    .1 the highest degree of service;

    .2 a reasonable lifetime;

    .3 reasonable safety;

    .4 that battery temperatures remain within the manufacturer's specifications whether under charge or idle;and

    .5 that when fully charged, the batteries will provide at least the minimum required hours of operation under all weather conditions.

    8 If an uninterrupted input on information from the ship's navigational or other equipment to a radio installation required by this chapter, including the navigation receiver referred to in regulation 18, is needed to ensure its proper

    performance, means shall be provided to ensure the continuous supply of such information in the event of failure of the ship's main or emergency source of electrical power.

    Title SOLAS 1988 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 14

    Effective Date 1-2-1992

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-2-1992

    Invalid from 11-4-1989

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note - The reason for this paradox is a result that the regulation adopted on 9 November 1988 and never came into force as it reads here. The regulation was amended on

    11 April 1989 by Res.MSC.13(57) with a same effective date.

    Regulation 14

    Performance standards

    1 All equipment to which this chapter applies shall be of a type approved by the Administration. Subject to paragraph 2, such equipment shall conform to appropriate performance standards not inferior to those adopted by the Organization.

    *

    * Reference is made to the following performance standards adopted by the Organization by the resolutions indicated or to be developed by the Organization:

    .1 Narrow-band direct-printing equipment for the reception of navigational and meteorological warnings and urgent information to ships (Assembly resolution A.525 (13).

    .2 General requirements for shipborne radio equipment forming part of the future global maritime distress and safety system (Assembly resolution A.569(14)).

    .3 Ship earth stations capable of two-way communications (Assembly resolution A.608(15)).

    .4 VHF radio installations capable of voice communications and digital selective calling (assembly resolution A.609(15)).

    .5 Shipborne MF radio installations capable of voice communications and digital selective calling (Assembly resolution A.610(15)).

    .6 Shipborne MF/HF radio installations capable of voice communication, narrow-band direct-printing and digital selective calling (Assembly resolution A.613(15)).

    .7 Float-free satellite emergency position-indicating radio beacons operating on 406 MHz (Assembly resolution A.611(15)).

    .8 Survival craft radar transponder for use in search and rescue operations (Assembly resolution A.604(15)).

    .9 Float-free VHF emergency position-indicating radio beacons (Assembly resolution A.612(15)).

    .10 INMARSAT Standards ship earth stations capable of transmitting and receiving direct-printing communications (MSC 55/25, annex4).

    .11 Enhanced group call equipment (MSC 55/25 annex5).

    .12 Float-free satellite emergency position-indicating radio beacons operating through the geostationary INMARSAT satellite system on 1.6 GHz (MSC 55/25, annex7).

    .13 Float-free release and activation arrangements for emergency radio equipment (MSC 55/25, annex6).

    2 Equipment installed prior to the dates of application prescribed by regulation 1 may be exempted from full compliance with the appropriate performance standards at the discretion of the Administration, provided that the equipment is

    compatible with equipment complying with the performance standards, having due regard to the criteria which the Organization may adopt in connection with such standards.

    Title SOLAS 2001-2003 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 14

    Effective Date 1-1-2004

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2004

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Part C -Ship requirements

    Regulation 14

    Performance standards

    1 All equipment to which this chapter applies shall be of a type approved by the Administration. Such equipment shall conform to appropriate performance standards not inferior to those adopted by the Organization.*

    *Refer to the following resolutions adopted by the Assembly of the Organization :

    .1 Performance standards for narrow-band direct-printing telegraph equipment for the reception of navigational and meteorological warnings and urgent information to ships (resolution A.525(13), as revised);

    .2 General requirements for shipborne radio equipment forming part of the global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) and for electronic navigational aids (resolution A.694(17));

    .3 Performance standards for ship earth stations capable of two-way communications (resolution A.808(19), as revised) and Type approval of ship earth stations (resolution A.570(14)) and Performance standards for Inmarsat ship earth

    stations capable of two-way communications (MSC.130(75));

    .4 Perfoemance standards for shipborne VHF radio installations capable of voice communication and digital selective calling (resolution A.803(19), as amended) and resolution MSC.68(68), annex 1 (valid for equipment installed on or after

    1 January 2000);

    .5 Performance standards for shipborne MF radio installations capable of voice communication and digital selective calling (resolution A.804(19), as amended) and resolution MSC.68(68), annex 2 (valid for equipment installed on or after

    1 January 2000);

    .6 Performance standards for shipborne MF/HF radio installations capable of voice communication, narrow-band direct-printing and digital selective calling (resolutiona A.806(19), as amended) and resolution MSC.68(68), annex 3 (valid

    for equipment installed on or after 1 January 2000);

    .7 Performance standards for float-free satellite emergency position-indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) operating on 406 MHZ (resolution A.810(19),as amended) and Adoption of amendments to performance standards for float-free

    satellite emergency position-indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) operationg on 406 MHz (resolution A.810(19)) (MSC.120(74)) and Type approval of satellite emergency postion-indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) operating in the COSPASSARSAT

    system (resolution.A.696(17));

    .8 Performance standards for survival craft radar transponders for use in search and rescue operations (resolution A.802(19), as amended);

    .9 Performance standards for float-free VHF emergency position-indicating radio beacons (resolution A.805(19));

    .10 Performance standards for INMARSAT Standard-C ship earth stations capable of transmitting and receiving direct-printing communications (resolution A.807(19), as amended) and Type approval of ship earth stations. (resolution

    A.662(16));

    .11 Revised performance standards for enhanced group call equipment (resolution MSC.306(87));

    .12 Performance standards for float-free release and activation arrangements for emergency radio equipment (resolution A.662(16));

    .13 System performance standard for the promulgation and coordination of maritime safety information using high-frequency narrow-band direct printing (resolution A.699(17));

    .14 Adoption of the revised performance standards for narrow-band direct-printing telegraph equipment for the reception of navigational and meteorological warnings and urgent information to ships (NAVTEX) (resolution MSC.148(77));

    .15 Performance standards for a shipborne integrated radiocommunication system (IRCS) when used in the GMDSS (resolution A.811(19)); and

    .16 Performance standards for on-scene (aeronautical) two-way portable VHF radiotelephone apparatus(resolution MSC.80(70),annex 1).

    Title SOLAS 2004 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 15

    Effective Date 1-7-2006

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2006

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 15

    Maintenance requirements

    1 Equipment shall be so designed that the main units can be replaced readily, without elaborate recalibration or readjustment.

    2 Where applicable, equipment shall be so constructed and installed that it is readily accessible for inspection and on-board maintenance purposes.

    3 Adequate information shall be provided to enable the equipment to be properly operated and maintained, taking into account the recommendations of the Organization.*

    * Refer to the Recommendation on general requirements for shipborne radio equipment forming part of the global maritime distress and safety system and for electronic navigational aids, adopted by the Organization by resolution

    A.694((17) and to resolution A.813(19) on general requirements for electromagnetic compafibilty (EMC) for all electrical and electronic ship's equipment and Clarifications of certain requirements in IMO performance standards for GMDSS

    equipment (MSC/Circ. 862)

    4 Adequate tools and spare shall be provided to enable the equipment to be maintained.

    5 The Administration shall ensure that radio equipment required by this chapter is maintained to provide the availability of the functional requirements specified in regulation 4 and to meet the recommended performance standards of such

    equipment.

    6 On ships engaged on voyages in sea areas A1 and A2, the availability shall be ensured by using such methods as duplication of equipment, shore-based maintenance or at-sea electronic maintenance capability, or a combination of these,

    as may be approved by the Administration.

    7 On ships engaged on voyages in sea areas A3 and A4, the availability shall be ensured by using a combination of at least two methods such as duplication of equipment, shore-based maintenance or at-sea electronic maintenance

    capability, as may be approved by the Administration, taking into account the recommendations of the Organization.**

    ** Refer to resolution A.702(17) concerning radio maintenance guidelines for the global maritime distress and safety system related to sea area A3 and A4, adopted by the Organization.

    8 While all reasonable steps shall be taken to maintain the equipment in efficient working order to ensure compliance with all the functional requirements specified in regulation 4, malfunction of the equipment for providing the general

    radiocommunications required by regulation 4.8 shall not be considered as making a ship unseaworthy or as a reason for delaying the ship in ports where repair facilities are not readily available, provided the ship is capable of performing all

    distress and safety functions.

    9 Satellite EPIRBs shall be: ( Replaced by Res.MSC.152(78))

    .1 annually tested for all aspects of operational efficiency, with special emphasis on checking the emission on operational frequencies, coding and registration, at intervals as specified below:

    .1 on passenger ships, within 3 months before the expiry date of the Passenger Ship Safety Certificate; and

    .2 on cargo ships, within 3 months before the expiry date, or 3 months before or after the anniversary date, of the Cargo Ship Safety Radio Certificate.

    The test may be conducted on board the ship or at an approved testing station; and

    .2 subject to maintenance at intervals not exceeding five years, to be performed at an approved shore-based maintenance facility.

    Title SOLAS 1994/1995 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 16

    Effective Date 1-7-1997

    For Ships Constructed On or after 2-1-1995

    For Ships Contracted On or after 1-7-1997

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 16

    Radio personnel

    1 Every ship shall carry personnel qualified for distress and safety radiocommunication purposes to the satisfaction of the Administration.* The personnel shall be holders of certificates specified in the Radio Regulations as appropriate, any

    one of whom shall be designated to have primary responsibility for radiocommunications during distress incidents.

    * Refer to the STCW Code, chapter IV, section B-IV/2.

    2 In passenger ships, at least one person qualified in accordance with paragraph 1 shall be assigned to perform only radiocommunication duties during distress incidents.

    Title SOLAS 1988 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 17

    Effective Date 1-2-1992

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-2-1992

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 17

    Radio records

    A record shall be kept, to the satisfaction of the Administration and as required by the Radio Regulations, of all incidents connected with the radio communication service which appear to be of importance to safety of life at sea.

    Title SOLAS 1996-1998 Amend / Chapter IV / Reg. 18

    Effective Date 1-7-2002

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2002

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Regulation 18

    Position-updating

    All two-way communication equipment carried on board a ship to which this chapter applies which is capable of automatically including the ship's position in the distress alert shall be automatically provided with this information from an

    internal or external navigation receiver, if either is installed. If such a receiver is not installed, the ship's position and the time at which the position was determined shall be manually updated at intervals not exceeding four hours, while the

    ship is underway, so that it is always ready for transmission by the equipment.

    Title SOLAS 1999/2000 Amend / Chapter V (Reg.1~35) / Reg. 1

    Effective Date 1-7-2002

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2002

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    CHAPTER V

    SAFETY OF NAVIGATION

    Regulation 1

    Application

    1 Unless expressly provided otherwise, this chapter shall apply to all ships on all voyages, except:

    .1 warships, naval auxiliaries and other ships owned or operated by a Contracting Government and used only on government non-commercial service; and

    .2 ships solely navigating the Great Lakes of North America and their connecting and tributary waters as far east as the lower exit of the St. Lambert Lock at Montreal in the Province of Quebec, Canada.

    However, warships, naval auxiliaries or other ships owned or operated by a Contracting Government and used only on government non-commercial service are encouraged to act in a manner consistent, so far as reasonable and practicable,

    with this chapter.

    2 The Administration may decide to what extent this chapter shall apply to ships operating solely in waters landward of the baselines which are established in accordance with international law.

    3 A rigidly connected composite unit of a pushing vessel and associated pushed vessel, when designed as a dedicated and integrated tug and barge combination, shall be regarded as a single ship for the purpose of this chapter.

    4 The Administration shall determine to what extent the provisions of regulations 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, and 28 do not apply to the following categories of ships:

    .1 ships below 150 gross tonnage engaged on any voyage;

    .2 ships below 500 gross tonnage not engaged on international voyages; and

    .3 fishing vessels.

    Title SOLAS 2001-2003 Amend / Chapter V (Reg.1~35) / Reg. 2

    Effective Date 1-7-2006

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2006

    Invalid from 20-5-2004

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note - The reason for this paradox is a result that the regulation adopted on 5 Jun 2003 by Res.MSC142(77) and never came into force as it reads here. The regulation was

    amended on 20 May 2004 by Res.MSC.153(78) with same effective date.

    Regulation 2

    Definitions

    For the purpose of this chapter:

    1 Constructed in respect of a ship means a stage of construction where:

    .1 the keel is laid; or

    .2 construction identifiable with a specific ship begins; or

    .3 assembly of the ship has commenced comprising at least 50 tonnes or 1% of the estimated mass of all structural material, whichever is less.

    2 Nautical chart or nautical publication is a special-purpose map or book, or a specially compiled database from which such a map or book is derived, that is issued officially by or on the authority of a Government, authorized Hydrographic

    Office or other relevant government institution and is designed to meet the requirements of marine navigation*

    * Refer to appropriate resolutions and recommendations of the International Hydrographic Organization concerning the authority and responsibilities of coastal States in the provision of charting in accordance with regulation 9.

    3 All ships means any ship, vessel or craft irrespective of type and purpose.

    4 Length of a ship means its length overall.

    Title SOLAS 2006 Amend / Chapter V / Reg. 2

    Effective Date 1-1-2008

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-1-2008

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note The new paragraphs 6 and 7 enter into force on 1 January 2008.

    Regulation 2

    Definitions

    For the purpose of this chapter:

    1 Constructed in respect of a ship means a stage of construction where:

    .1 the keel is laid; or

    .2 construction identifiable with a specific ship begins; or

    .3 assembly of the ship has commenced comprising at least 50 tonnes or 1% of the estimated mass of all structural material, whichever is less.

    2 Nautical chart or nautical publication is a special-purpose map or book, or a specially compiled database from which such a map or book is derived, that is issued officially by or on the authority of a Government, authorized Hydrographic

    Office or other relevant government institution and is designed to meet the requirements of marine navigation*

    * Refer to appropriate resolutions and recommendations of the International Hydrographic Organization concerning the authority and responsibilities of coastal States in the provision of charting in accordance with regulation 9.

    3 All ships means any ship, vessel or craft irrespective of type and purpose.

    4 Length of a ship means its length overall.

    5 Search and rescue service. The performance of distress monitoring, communication, co-ordination and search and rescue functions, including provision of medical advice, initial medical assistance, or medical evacuation, through the use of

    public and private resources including co-operating aircraft, ships, vessels and other craft and installations. ( Added by Res.MSC.153(78))

    6 High-speed craft means a craft as defined in regulation X/1.3. ( Inserted by Res.MSC.202(81))

    7 Mobile offshore drilling unit means a mobile offshore drilling unit as defined in regulation XI-2/1.1.5. ( Inserted by Res.MSC.202(81))

    Title SOLAS 1999/2000 Amend / Chapter V (Reg.1~35) / Reg. 3

    Effective Date 1-7-2002

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2002

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Issues relating to Contracting Government

    Regulation 3

    Exemptions and equivalents

    1 The Administration may grant general exemptions to ships without mechanical means of propulsion from the requirements of regulations 15, 17, 18, 19 (except 19.2.1.7), 20, 22, 24, 25, 26, 27, and 28.

    2 The Administration may grant to individual ships exemptions or equivalents of a partial or conditional nature, when any such ship is engaged on a voyage where the maximum distance of the ship from the shore, the length and nature of

    the voyage, the absence of general navigational hazards, and other conditions affecting safety are such as to render the full application of this chapter unreasonable or unnecessary, provided that the Administration has taken into account

    the effect such exemptions and equivalents may have upon the safety of all other ships.

    3 Each Administration shall submit to the Organization, as soon as possible after 1 January in each year, a report summarising all new exemptions and equivalents granted under paragraph 2 of this regulation during the previous calendar

    year and giving the reasons for granting such exemptions and equivalents. The Organization shall circulate such particulars to other Contracting Governments for information.

    Title SOLAS 1999/2000 Amend / Chapter V (Reg.1~35) / Reg. 4

    Effective Date 1-7-2002

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2002

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Issues relating to Contracting Government

    Regulation 4

    Navigational warnings

    Each Contracting Government shall take all steps necessary to ensure that, when intelligence of any dangers is received from whatever reliable source, it shall be promptly brought to the knowledge of those concerned and communicated to

    other interested Governments.*

    * Refer to the Guidance on the IMO/IHO World-Wide Navigational Warning Service adopted by the organization by resolution A.706(17), as amended.

    Title SOLAS 1999/2000 Amend / Chapter V (Reg.1~35) / Reg. 5

    Effective Date 1-7-2002

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2002

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Issues relating to Contracting Government

    Regulation 5

    Meteorological services and warnings

    1 Contracting Governments undertake to encourage the collection of meteorological data by ships at sea and to arrange for their examination, dissemination and exchange in the manner most suitable for the purpose of aiding navigation.*

    Administrations shall encourage the use of meteorological instruments of a high degree of accuracy, and shall facilitate the checking of such instruments upon request. Arrangements may be made by appropriate national meteorological

    services for this checking to be undertaken, free of charge to the ship.

    ** Refer to the Recommendation on weather routeing adopted by the organization by resolution A.528(13).

    2 In particular, Contracting Governments undertake to carry out, in co-operation, the following meteorological arrangements:

    .1 to warn ships of gales, storms and tropical cyclones by the issue of information in text and, as far as practicable graphic form, using the appropriate shore-based facilities for terrestrial and space radiocommunications services.

    .2 to issue, at least twice daily, by terrestrial and space radiocommunication services*, as appropriate, weather information suitable for shipping containing data, analyses, warnings and forecasts of weather, waves and ice. Such

    information shall be transmitted in text and, as far as practicable, graphic form including meteorological analysis and prognosis charts transmitted by facsimile or in digital form for reconstitution on board the ship's data processing

    system.

    * Refer to regulation IV/7.1.4 and IV/7.1.5.

    .3 to prepare and issue such publications as may be necessary for the efficient conduct of meteorological work at sea and to arrange, if practicable, for the publication and making available of daily weather charts for the information of

    departing ships.

    .4 to arrange for a selection of ships to be equipped with tested marine meteorological instruments (such as a barometer, a barograph, a psychrometer, and suitable apparatus for measuring sea temperature) for use in this service, and

    to take, record and transmit meteorological observations at the main standard times for surface synoptic observations (i.e. at least four times daily, whenever circumstances permit) and to encourage other ships to take, record and

    transmit observations in a modified form, particularly when in areas where shipping is sparse.

    .5 to encourage companies to involve as many of their ships as practicable in the making and recording of weather observations; these observations to be transmitted using the ship's terrestrial or space radiocommunications facilities for

    the benefit of the various national meteorological services.

    .6 the transmission of these weather observations is free of charge to the ships concerned.

    .7 when in the vicinity of a tropical cyclone, or of a suspected tropical cyclone, ships should be encouraged to take and transmit their observations at more frequent intervals whenever practicable, bearing in mind navigational

    preoccupations of ships' officers during storm conditions.

    .8 to arrange for the reception and transmission of weather messages from and to ships, using the appropriate shore-based facilities for terrestrial and space radiocommunications services.

    .9 to encourage masters to inform ships in the vicinity and also shore stations whenever they experience a wind speed of 50 knots or more (force 10 on the Beaufort scale).

    .10 to endeavour to obtain a uniform procedure in regard to the international meteorological services already specified, and as far as practicable, to conform to the technical regulations and recommendations made by the World

    Meteorological Organization, to which Contracting Governments may refer, for study and advice, any meteorological question which may arise in carrying out the present Convention.

    3 The information provided for in this regulation shall be furnished in a form for transmission and be transmitted in the order of priority prescribed by the Radio Regulations. During transmission "to all stations" of meteorological information,

    forecasts and warnings, all ship stations must conform to the provisions of the Radio Regulations.

    4 Forecasts, warnings, synoptic and other meteorological data intended for ships shall be issued and disseminated by the national meteorological service in the best position to serve various coastal and high seas areas, in accordance with

    mutual arrangements made by Contracting Governments, in particular as defined by the World Meteorological Organization's System for the Preparation and Dissemination of Meteorological Forecasts and Warnings for the High Seas under

    the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).

    Title SOLAS 1999/2000 Amend / Chapter V (Reg.1~35) / Reg. 6

    Effective Date 1-7-2002

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2002

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Issues relating to Contracting Government

    Regulation 6

    Ice Patrol Service

    1 The Ice Patrol contributes to safety of life at sea, safety and efficiency of navigation and protection of the marine environment in the North Atlantic. Ships transiting the region of icebergs guarded by the Ice Patrol during the ice season are

    required to make use of the services provided by the Ice Patrol.

    2 The Contracting Governments undertake to continue an ice patrol and a service for study and observation of ice conditions in the North Atlantic. During the whole of the ice season, i.e. for the period from February 15th through July 1st of

    each year, the south-eastern, southern and south-western limits of the region of icebergs in the vicinity of the Grand Banks of Newfoundland shall be guarded for the purpose of informing passing ships of the extent of this dangerous region;

    for the study of ice conditions in general; and for the purpose of affording assistance to ships and crews requiring aid within the limits of operation of the patrol ships and aircraft. During the rest of the year the study and observation of ice

    conditions shall be maintained as advisable.

    3 Ships and aircraft used for the ice patrol service and the study and observation of ice conditions may be assigned other duties provided that such other duties do not interfere with the primary purpose or increase the cost of this service.

    4 The Government of the United States of America agrees to continue the overall management of the ice patrol service and the study and observation of ice conditions, including the dissemination of information therefrom.

    5 The terms and conditions governing the management, operation and financing of the Ice Patrol are set forth in the Rules for the management, operation and financing of the North Atlantic Ice Patrol appended to this chapter which shall

    form an integral part of this chapter.

    6 If, at any time, the United States and/or Canadian Governments should desire, to discontinue providing these services, it may do so and the Contracting Governments shall settle the question of continuing these services in accordance with

    their mutual interests. The United States and/or Canadian Governments shall provide 18 months written notice to all Contracting Governments whose ships entitled to fly their flag and whose ships registered in territories to which those

    Contracting Governments have extended this regulation benefit from these services before discontinuing providing these services.

    Title SOLAS 1999/2000 Amend / Chapter V (Reg.1~35) / Reg. 7

    Effective Date 1-7-2002

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2002

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Issues relating to Contracting Government

    Regulation 7

    Search and rescue services

    1 Each Contracting Government undertakes to ensure that necessary arrangements are made for distress communication and co-ordination in their area of responsibility and for the rescue of persons in distress at sea around its coasts.

    These arrangements shall include the establishment, operation and maintenance of such search and rescue facilities as are deemed practicable and necessary, having regard to the density of the seagoing traffic and the navigational dangers

    and shall, so far as possible, provide adequate means of locating and rescuing such persons.*

    * Refer to the International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR), 1979, and to the following resolutions adopted by the Organization: Homing capability of search and rescue (SAR) aircraft (resolution A.225(VII)), Use of

    radar transponders for search and rescue purposes (resolution A.530(13)), Search and rescue homing capability (resolution A.616(15)) and International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue (IAMSAR) Manual

    (resolution A.894(21), as amended).

    2 Each Contracting Government undertakes to make available information to the Organization concerning its existing search and rescue facilities and the plans for changes therein, if any.

    3 Passenger ships to which chapter I applies, shall have on board a plan for co-operation with appropriate search and rescue services in event of an emergency. The plan shall be developed in co-operation between the ship, the company, as

    defined in regulation IX/1 and the search and rescue services. The plan shall include provisions for periodic exercises to be undertaken to test its effectiveness. The plan shall be developed based on the guidelines developed by the

    Organization.

    Title SOLAS 1999/2000 Amend / Chapter V (Reg.1~35) / Reg. 8

    Effective Date 1-7-2002

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2002

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Issues relating to Contracting Government

    Regulation 8

    Life-saving signals

    Contracting Governments undertake to arrange that life-saving signals are used by search and rescue facilities engaged in search and rescue operations when communicating with ships or persons in distress.

    Title SOLAS 1999/2000 Amend / Chapter V (Reg.1~35) / Reg. 9

    Effective Date 1-7-2002

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2002

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Issues relating to Contracting Government

    Regulation 9

    Hydrographic services

    1 Contracting Governments undertake to arrange for the collection and compilation of hydrographic data and the publication, dissemination and keeping up to date of all nautical information necessary for safe navigation.

    2 In particular, Contracting Governments undertake to co-operate in carrying out, as far as possible, the following nautical and hydrographic services, in the manner most suitable for the purpose of aiding navigation:

    .1 to ensure that hydrographic surveying is carried out, as far as possible, adequate to the requirements of safe navigation;

    .2 to prepare and issue nautical charts, sailing directions, lists of lights, tide tables and other nautical publications, where applicable, satisfying the needs of safe navigation;

    .3 to promulgate notices to mariners in order that nautical charts and publications are kept, as far as possible, up to date; and

    .4 to provide data management arrangements to support these services.

    3 Contracting Governments undertake to ensure the greatest possible uniformity in charts and nautical publications and to take into account, whenever possible, relevant international resolutions and recommendations.*

    * Refer to the appropriate resolutions and recommendations adopted by the International Hydrographic Organization.

    4 Contracting Governments undertake to co-ordinate their activities to the greatest possible degree in order to ensure that hydrographic and nautical information is made available on a world-wide scale as timely, reliably, and

    unambiguously as possible.

    Title SOLAS 1999/2000 Amend / Chapter V / Reg. 10

    Effective Date 1-7-2002

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2002

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Issues relating to Contracting Government

    Regulation 10

    Ships' routeing

    1 Ships' routeing systems contribute to safety of life at sea, safety and efficiency of navigation, and/or protection of the marine environment. Ships' routeing systems are recommended for use by, and may be made mandatory for, all ships,

    certain categories of ships or ships carrying certain cargoes, when adopted and implemented in accordance with the guidelines and criteria developed by the Organization.*

    * Refer to General Provisions on Ships' Routeing (resolution A.572(14), as amended).

    2 The Organization is recognized as the only international body for developing guidelines, criteria and regulations on an international level for ships' routeing systems. Contracting Governments shall refer proposals for the adoption of ships'

    routeing systems to the Organization. The Organization will collate and disseminate to Contracting Governments all relevant information with regard to any adopted ships' routeing systems.

    3 The initiation of action for establishing a ships' routeing system is the responsibility of the Government or Governments concerned. In developing such systems for adoption by the Organization, the guidelines and criteria developed by the

    Organization* shall be taken into account.

    * Refer to General Provisions on Ships' Routeing (resolution A.572(14), as amended).

    4 Ships' routeing systems should be submitted to the Organization for adoption. However, a Government or Governments implementing ships' routeing systems not intended to be submitted to the Organization for adoption or which have

    not been adopted by the Organization are encouraged to take into account, wherever possible, the guidelines and criteria developed by the Organization.*

    * Refer to General Provisions on Ships' Routeing (resolution A.572(14), as amended).

    5 Where two or more Governments have a common interest in a particular area, they should formulate joint proposals for the delineation and use of a routeing system therein on the basis of an agreement between them. Upon receipt of

    such proposal and before proceeding with consideration of it for adoption, the Organization shall ensure details of the proposal are disseminated to the Governments which have a common interest in the area, including countries in the

    vicinity of the proposed ships’ routeing system.

    6 Contracting Governments shall adhere to the measures adopted by the Organization concerning ships' routeing. They shall promulgate all information necessary for the safe and effective use of adopted ships' routeing systems. A

    Government or Governments concerned may monitor traffic in those systems. Contracting Governments shall do everything in their power to secure the appropriate use of ships' routeing systems adopted by the Organization.

    7 A ship shall use a mandatory ships' routeing system adopted by the Organization as required for its category or cargo carried and in accordance with the relevant provisions in force unless there are compelling reasons not to use a

    particular ships' routeing system. Any such reason shall be recorded in the ships' log.

    8 Mandatory ships' routeing systems shall be reviewed by the Contracting Government or Governments concerned in accordance with the guidelines and criteria developed by the Organization. *

    * Refer to General Provisions on Ships' Routeing (resolution A.572(14), as amended).

    9 All adopted ships' routeing systems and actions taken to enforce compliance with those systems shall be consistent with international law, including the relevant provisions of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

    10 Nothing in this regulation nor its associated guidelines and criteria shall prejudice the rights and duties of Governments under international law or the legal regimes of straits used for international navigation and archipelagic sea lanes.

    Title SOLAS 1999/2000 Amend / Chapter V (Reg.1~35) / Reg. 11

    Effective Date 1-7-2002

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-7-2002

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note Issues relating to Contracting Government

    Regulation 11

    Ship reporting systems*

    * This regulation does not address ship reporting systems established by Governments for search and rescue purposes which are covered by chapter 5 of the 1979 SAR Convention as amended.

    1 Ship reporting systems contribute to safety of life at sea, safety and efficiency of navigation, and protection of the marine environment. A ship reporting system, when adopted and implemented in accordance with the guidelines and

    criteria developed by the Organization** pursuant to this regulation, shall be used by all ships, or certain categories of ships or ships carrying certain cargoes in accordance with the provisions of each system so adopted.

    ** Refer to the guidelines and criteria adopted by the Maritime Safety Committee of the Organization by resolution MSC.43(64) , as amended by resolution MSC.111(73). Refer also to the General principles for ship reporting systems and

    ship reporting requirements, including guidelines for reporting incidents involving dangerous goods, harmful substances and/or marine pollutants, adopted by the Organization by resolution A.851(20), as amended.

    2 The Organization is recognized as the only international body for developing guidelines, criteria and regulations on an international level for ship reporting systems. Contracting Government shall refer proposals for the adoption of ship

    reporting systems to the Organization. The Organization will collate and disseminate to Contracting Governments all relevant information with regard to any adopted ship reporting system.

    3 The initiation of action for establishing a ship reporting system is the responsibility of the Government or Governments concerned. In developing such systems provision of the guidelines and criteria developed by the Organization* shall be

    taken into account.

    ** Refer to the guidelines and criteria adopted by the Maritime Safety Committee of the Organization by resolution MSC.43(64) , as amended by resolution MSC.111(73). Refer also to the General principles for ship reporting systems and

    ship reporting requirements, including guidelines for reporting incidents involving dangerous goods, harmful substances and/or marine pollutants, adopted by the Organization by resolution A.851(20), as amended.

    4 Ship reporting systems not submitted to the Organization for adoption do not necessarily need to comply with this regulation. However, Governments implementing such systems are encouraged to follow, wherever possible, the guidelines

    and criteria developed by the Organization* . Contracting Governments may submit such systems to the Organization for recognition.

    5 Where two or more Governments have a common interest in a particular area, they should formulate proposals for a co-ordinated ship reporting system on the basis of agreement between them. Before proceeding with a proposal for

    adoption of a ship reporting system, the Organization shall disseminate details of the proposal to those Governments which have a common interest in the area covered by the proposed system. Where a co-ordinated ship reporting system is

    adopted and established, it shall have uniform procedures and operations.

    6 After adoption of a ship reporting system in accordance with this regulation, the Government or Governments concerned shall take all measures necessary for the promulgation of any information needed for the efficient and effective use

    of the system. Any adopted ship reporting system shall have the capability of interaction and the ability to assist ships with information when necessary. Such systems shall be operated in accordance with the guidelines and criteria

    developed by the Organization* pursuant to this regulation.

    ** Refer to the guidelines and criteria adopted by the Maritime Safety Committee of the Organization by resolution MSC.43(64) , as amended by resolution MSC.111(73). Refer also to the General principles for ship reporting systems and

    ship reporting requirements, including guidelines for reporting incidents involving dangerous goods, harmful substances and/or marine pollutants, adopted by the Organization by resolution A.851(20), as amended.

    7 The master of a ship shall comply with the requirements of adopted ship reporting systems and report to the appropriate authority all information required in accordance with the provisions of each such system.

    8 All adopted ship reporting systems and actions taken to enforce compliance with those systems shall be consistent with international law, including the relevant provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

    9 Nothing in this regulation or its associated guidelines and criteria shall prejudice the rights and duties of Governments under international law or the legal regimes of straits used for international navigation and archipelagic sea lanes.

    10 The participation of ships in accordance with the provisions of adopted ship reporting systems shall be free of charge to the ships concerned.

    11 The Organization shall ensure that adopted ship reporting systems are reviewed under the guidelines and criteria developed by the Organization.

    Title SOLAS 1988 Amend / Chapter V / Reg. 12

    Effective Date 1-2-1992

    For Ships Constructed On or after 1-2-1992

    Invalid from 11-4-1989

    Retroactive Retroactive Requirement for Existing Ships.

    Note - The reason for this paradox is a result that the regulation adopted on 9 November 1988 and never came into force as it reads here. The regulation was amended on

    11 April 1989 by Res.MSC.13(57) with a same effective date.

    Regulation 12

    Shipborne Navigational Equipment*

    * See resolution A. 156(ES.IV) : Recommendation on the carriage of electronic positionfixing equipment and resolution A.666(16) : World-wide radionavigation system.

    (a) For the purpose of this regulation "constructed" in respect of a ship means a stage of construction where:

    (i) the keel is laid; or

    (ii) construction identifiable with a specific ship begins; or

    (iii) assembly of that ship has commenced comprising at least 50 tonnes or 1 per cent of the estimated mass of all structural material, whichever is less.

    (b)

    (i) Ships of 150 tons gross tonnage and upwards shall be fitted with:

    (1) a standard magnetic compass, except as provided in sub-paragraph (iv);

    (2) a steering magnetic compass, unless heading information provided by the standard compass required under (1) is made available and is clearly readable by the helmsman at the main steering position;

    (3) adequate means of communication between the standard compass position and the normal navigation control position to the satisfaction of the Administration; and

    (4) means for taking bearings as nearly as practicable over an arc of the horizon of 360°.

    (ii) Each magnetic compass referred to in sub-paragraph (i) shall be properly adjusted and its table or curve of residual deviations shall be available at all times.

    (iii) A spare magnetic compass, interchangeable with the standard compass, shall be carried, unless the steering compass mentioned in sub-paragraph (i)(2) or a gyro compass is fitted.

    (iv) The Administration, if it considers it unreasonable or unnecessary to require a standard magnetic compass, may exempt individual ships or classes of ships from these requirements if the nature of the voyage, the ship's proximity to

    land or the type of ship does not warrant standard compass, provided that a suitable steering compass is in all cases carried.

    (c) Ships of less than 150 tons gross tonnage shall, as far as the Administration considers it reasonable and practicable, be fitted with a steering compass and have means for taking bearings.

    (d) Ships of 500 tons gross tonnage