What Regulations Govern Life Saving Equipment on Ships?
When you’re out at sea, safety isn’t just important—it’s everything. That’s why ships are required to have specific life saving appliances on board, designed to protect the crew and passengers in case of an emergency. But what exactly are the regulations that govern these essential tools, and how do they ensure safety on the high seas? Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to understand. 1. The Lifesaver: SOLAS Convention The backbone of maritime safety regulations is the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). This treaty, which came about after the Titanic disaster, sets out the minimum safety standards that every ship must follow. It’s like the rulebook that ensures ships are built and operated in a way that prioritizes the safety of everyone on board. Under SOLAS, ships are required to carry enough life-saving appliances—think lifeboats, life rafts, and life jackets—so that everyone on board has access to them in an emergency. It’s all about be...