SOLASkonvensio

SOLASkonvensio, also known as the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), is the principal international treaty governing maritime safety. Developed under the International Maritime Organization, it sets minimum safety standards for the construction, equipment, and operation of ships engaged in international voyages. It originated after the sinking of the Titanic and was first adopted in 1914; it has since been revised and expanded through successive protocols, with the current consolidated text being the 1974 SOLAS as amended by later protocols. The treaty is open to all states and becomes binding on states once ratified; enforcement rests with flag states on ships flying their flag and with port states when foreign ships visit their ports.

SOLAS covers a broad range of safety requirements. It addresses ship design and structural integrity, fire protection and detection, life-saving appliances and arrangements, radiocommunications and emergency systems, and safety of navigation. It introduced mandatory lifesaving equipment such as lifeboats, life jackets, and distress signaling systems, including the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). It also incorporates management aspects through the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, which requires companies and ships to implement safety management systems.

Amendments to SOLAS are adopted by the IMO and enter into force on specified dates. New requirements apply to new ships and, over time, to existing ships through revised compliance dates. SOLAS remains the cornerstone of international maritime safety and interacts with related instruments addressing security, pollution, and crew welfare.