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What Is SOLAS?

The SOLAS Convention was initially adopted in 1914 in response to the sinking of the Titanic, and it has evolved considerably since that time. SOLAS stands for Safety of Life at Sea, and it is generally considered the primary international treaty related to the safety of merchant ships.

At NextGen Marine, safety is our focus and our commitment, and we’re standing by to help ensure that your vessel meets – or exceeds – the safety standards laid down by SOLAS.

General Provisions

SOLAS begins with general safety provisions. These focus on general regulations for various types of vessels and the issuance of documents that signify each ship’s seaworthiness.

Construction

The chapter on construction addresses the subdivision of passenger vessels into watertight compartments that – after damage to the ship’s hull – allow the vessel to stay both stable and afloat. This includes subdivisions for stability, machinery, and electrical installations.

The second component of construction is fire protection, fire detection, and fire extinction. This includes the need for thermal and structural boundaries, which ties in directly with our high-quality marine insulation solutions.

Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements

This chapter clarifies the importance of life-saving appliances like the following on all watercraft that take to the sea:

Radiocommunications

The chapter on radiocommunications highlights the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), which is required for large passenger and cargo ships and is designed to improve the chances of rescue after an accident.

Safety of Navigation

Next, the matter of navigation safety is addressed, and it identifies the requirements regarding the maintenance of specific navigation safety services that are applicable to all ships on all voyages, including:

The Carriage of Cargoes and Dangerous Goods

These chapters cover the carriage of regular cargo and cargo that pose a danger to those on board and, therefore, require additional precautions. The regulations included a focus on storage and the securing of cargo units – or containers.

Management for the Safe Operation of Ships

This safety management chapter makes the International Safety Management Code mandatory for ships. It includes a requirement for a safety management system that the shipowner or the person who has assumed responsibility for the ship must establish.

When it comes to maritime vessels, safety is obviously of primary concern, and maintaining a detail-oriented focus on every facet of your ship’s safety is key.

We Can Help You Improve Your Boat’s Safety, Energy Efficiency, and Seaworthiness

We founded NextGen Marine in 2016, and we dedicate our exemplary services to exacting workmanship that specifically relates to HVAC pipework insulation, bulkhead and overhead Rockwool installation, and soundproofing. We’re guided by our exceptionally high standards, and we’re committed to seamlessly outfitting your ship with high-quality insulation that allows top performance and enhanced safety. For more information about how we can help, please don’t wait to contact us online or call 954-789-3665 today.

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