SOLAS CHAPTER III – REGULATIONS 19 AND 20

SOLAS Chapter III deals with the Safety of Life at Sea specifically for life-saving appliances and
arrangements.

Regulation 19: Regulation 19 ensures that emergency drills are conducted regularly. Regulation 19 requires
ships to conduct emergency drills and trainings for all crew members for the competence, to ensure
preparedness for emergencies, such as:
1. Abandonship
2. Man Overboard (MOB)

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Abandon Ship Drill

1. Purpose: To ensure that all crew members and passengers are familiar with the procedures to abandon
the ship safely in case of an emergency.

2. Scope: This procedure applies to all crew members and passengers aboard the vessel.

3. Responsibilities:

 Captain/Officer-in-Charge: Ensure the drill is conducted as per regulations.

 Safety Officer: Supervise the drill, ensure proper execution, and check the readiness of life-saving
appliances.

 Crew Members: Actively participate and follow instructions during the drill.

 Passengers (if applicable): Follow the crew's instructions promptly.

4. Procedure:

A. Preparation:

 Ensure all life-saving appliances (life jackets, lifeboats, life rafts) are in good working order and easily
accessible.

 Review the abandonment procedures with the crew before the drill.

 Designate assembly stations for the crew and passengers.

 Notify the crew and passengers about the drill (without causing panic).

B. Drill Execution:

1. Signal: The drill will begin with the ship's horn or a pre-designated alarm signal.

2. Donning Life-saving Equipment: Crew and passengers must don life jackets and any other personal
protective equipment (e.g., immersion suits).

3. Assembly: Everyone proceeds to the assigned muster station calmly and efficiently.

4. Lifeboat Preparation: Crew members will prepare the lifeboats for launching (lowering, checking
systems).
 5. Evacuation to Lifeboats/Life Rafts: Depending on the situation, either lifeboats or life rafts will be
launched.

* Lifeboats should be launched with all necessary equipment, and crew should ensure that the boats are fully
equipped. * If using life rafts, ensure that they are deployed properly.

6. Communication: Maintain communication with the bridge to inform of progress and readiness.

C. Post-Drill:

 Return to the ship after the drill is concluded, ensuring that all life-saving appliances are properly stowed.

 Conduct a debriefing to review performance and highlight areas for improvement.

5. Record Keeping:

 Document the details of the drill (time, date, participants, any issues observed) for compliance and
training purposes.

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Man Overboard Drill

1. Purpose: To ensure that crew members are trained to respond effectively and promptly to a man-
overboard (MOB) situation.

2. Scope: This procedure applies to all crew members aboard the vessel.

3. Responsibilities:

 Captain/Officer-in-Charge: Ensure the drill is conducted according to SOLAS regulations and safely.

 Lookouts: Actively participate in identifying the "man overboard" and ensure it is reported immediately.

 Safety Officer: Supervise the drill and assess the crew’s response.

 Crew Members: Participate in the drill by executing assigned roles (e.g., launching rescue boats, using
rescue equipment).

4. Procedure:

A. Preparation:

 Ensure the MOB alarm system is operational.

 Assign roles to the crew: lookout, rescue boat operator, and recovery team.

 Ensure all safety equipment (life rings, rescue lines, throw bags, etc.) is ready and available.

 Conduct a briefing before the drill to ensure everyone is familiar with the roles and procedures.

B. Drill Execution:

1. Signal: The drill will begin with the sounding of the MOB alarm or a pre-designated signal.

2. Observation: Lookouts on duty will immediately spot the "man overboard" (this can be simulated for drill
purposes).
 3. Report: The person who spots the MOB will immediately shout "Man Overboard" and notify the bridge.

4. MOB Alert and Response:

* The bridge will acknowledge the alert and issue commands for response. * The crew will immediately proceed
with deploying rescue equipment (e.g., lifebuoys or life rings) and begin the recovery operation.

5. Rescue Boat Deployment:

* A rescue boat or life raft will be launched as quickly as possible. * The crew should practice executing the
recovery of the "man overboard" and return the individual to safety.

6. Communication: Ensure that all relevant personnel on board are kept informed during the drill.

C. Post-Drill:

 Return to the starting position after the drill and check that all equipment used is properly stowed.

 Evaluate the performance of the crew, highlighting areas of improvement or areas where additional
training may be needed.

5. Record Keeping:

 Record the details of the drill, including time, date, participants, and any issues observed.

Regulation 20: This requires that ships should regularly maintain and inspect the LSA and that LSAs should be
sufficient or more than the number of crew onboard. Regulation 20 mandates the provision and maintenance of
personal life-saving appliances for all on board.

Common Life Saving Appliances on board the ship

1. Lifeboat

Definition: A small boat kept on a ship for emergency evacuation.

Function: Used to safely evacuate crew and passengers in case the ship is abandoned.

2. Life raft

Definition: An inflatable raft stored in a container, launched automatically or manually.

Function: Provides temporary shelter and flotation for survivors after abandoning the ship.

3. Immersion Suit

Definition: A waterproof and thermally insulated suit.

Function: Protects a person from cold water exposure and hypothermia when abandoning ship.

4. Flare
Definition: A handheld or rocket-fired signal device.

Function: Used to signal distress and attract attention during emergencies.

5. EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon)

Definition: A distress beacon that transmits location data via satellite.

Function: Sends emergency signals with location to search and rescue services.

6. SART (Search and Rescue Transponder)

Definition: A radar transponder used in rescue operations.

Function: Helps rescuers locate lifeboats or liferafts by responding to radar signals.

7. Lifebuoy

Definition: A ring-shaped flotation device.

Function: Thrown to a person overboard to keep them afloat until rescued.

8. Lifejacket

Definition: A buoyant vest worn on the body.

Function: Keeps a person’s head above water, helping them stay afloat in emergencies.

9. Rescue Boat

Definition: A fast, maneuverable boat on board.

Function: Used for rescuing people in the water and for emergency duties.

ADDITIONAL LSAs on board the ship:

Distress Flares – Pyrotechnic signaling devices used to attract attention in case of distress.

Searchlights – Used for locating persons in distress or signaling for help.

Life Lines – Ropes or lines used to prevent persons from falling overboard and to provide safety when moving
about the deck.

First Aid Kits – Medical supplies for treating injuries or health issues during emergencies.

In summary:

 Regulation 19 mandates that emergency drills and trainings are conducted regularly.
  Regulation 20 mandates the provision and maintenance of personal life-saving appliances for all on
board, ensuring that they are sufficient to the number of crew and passengers onboard.

Responsibilities of Ships in Distress Situations (SOLAS Chapter V Regulation 33)

SOLAS Chapter V Regulation 33 outlines the responsibilities of ships in distress situations. This
regulation is designed to ensure that ships assist those in distress at sea and maintain communication with
relevant authorities, such as rescue coordination centers (RCC). Understanding and complying with these
regulations is vital for the safety of life at sea.

Key Points

1. Duty to Assist Ships in Distress

 Ships must assist any vessel in distress when it is safe to do so, without endangering themselves
or their crew.

 This includes offering assistance even if the distressed vessel is not directly in the ship’s
immediate vicinity, as long as help can be provided.

2. Communication with Rescue Coordination Centers (RCC)

 Ships must immediately communicate distress situations to the RCC.

 The RCC coordinates the rescue effort and can provide instructions on the next steps.

3. Rescue Operations

 Ships must attempt rescue operations if they are in proximity to a distressed vessel and are
capable of doing so safely.

 Assistance could include providing medical supplies, shelter, or evacuation.

4. Sending Distress Signals

 A ship in distress must immediately send distress signals using appropriate means (e.g.,
Mayday, distress flares, radio communication).
  Distress signals should be sent continuously or until the ship's situation is resolved.

5. Role of the Ship's Master and Crew

 The ship's master is ultimately responsible for ensuring the implementation of these actions.

 The crew must be trained and prepared for distress scenarios, with clear evacuation and rescue
procedures in place.

Step-by-Step Procedures During Distress Situations (Per SOLAS Regulation 33)

Step 1: Identification of Distress Situation

 Actions:

 Monitor communication systems for distress signals (radio, visual signals).

 Identify the nature of the distress situation (e.g., sinking, fire, collision).

 Assess if the distress signal came from a nearby ship or if your own vessel is in distress.

 If the ship is in distress, alert the master and crew immediately.

Step 2: Evaluate the Capability to Assist

 Actions:

 Assess if your ship can safely assist the distressed vessel without compromising its own safety.

 Consider the weather conditions, proximity of the distressed vessel, and your ship’s capabilities
(e.g., speed, capacity to conduct a rescue).

Step 3: Communication with RCC

 Actions:

 Immediately contact the RCC through the ship’s communication system (radio, satellite phone,
etc.).

 Provide details such as the distress signal received, the location of the distressed vessel, and the
type of emergency.

 Follow the instructions provided by the RCC.

Important Note: Keep the RCC updated on any developments in the distress situation.

Step 4: Responding to the Distress Call

 Actions:
  Alter the ship’s course to approach the distressed vessel (if it is safe to do so).

 Send a message to the distressed vessel to inform them of your actions.

 Prepare your crew for possible rescue operations, including medical aid and evacuation.

 Deploy lifeboats, life rafts, or other rescue equipment if needed.

Step 5: Rescue Operations and Evacuation

 Actions:

 If the distressed vessel has survivors, prepare to assist in evacuation or transfer of the
crew/passengers.

 Implement safety protocols and ensure the safety of your crew and the survivors.

 Provide any necessary medical aid and resources (e.g., food, water, clothing).

Step 6: Provide Medical Assistance

 Actions:

 Provide the distressed crew with all the medical assistance that can be provided. Help in
reducing the risk of having hypothermia by ensuring the crew are maintaining their boy
temperature (heat) – provide hot drinks, blankets, sanitation or soaking in a lukewarm water, etc.

Step 7: Completion of Rescue and Reporting

 Actions:

 Once the distressed vessel and crew are safe, report to the RCC that the operation has
concluded.

 Submit an incident report, including details about the situation, actions taken, and the status of
the rescued personnel.

Checklist for Ships in Distress Situations (Per SOLAS Chapter V Regulation 33)

Action Responsibility Status

Identify distress situation Monitor communication systems for distress signals (radio, flares, etc.) ☐
Evaluate the ability to assist Assess if your vessel can safely assist the distressed vessel ☐
Alert the master and crew Notify the master and crew if the ship is in distress ☐
Communicate with RCC Notify the RCC of the distress situation and follow their instructions ☐

Alter course to assist Change course to assist the distressed vessel (if safe to do so) ☐
Prepare rescue operations Prepare the crew for a possible rescue, including evacuation procedures ☐

Assist with rescue or evacuation If safe, assist with evacuation or provide shelter and aid ☐

Report completion of rescue Report to RCC when rescue or assistance has been successfully ☐
Action Responsibility Status
completed
Complete incident report Submit a detailed report on the incident, actions taken, and outcomes ☐

Marine Declarations of Health

A Marine Declaration of Health (also often referred to as a Maritime Declaration of Health) is a crucial document
used in maritime operations to provide information about the health status of individuals on board a vessel. Here's
a breakdown of its purpose and significance:

Definition:

 It is a standard document that ships entering a port are required to submit to the port health authorities.
  It contains information about the health of the crew and passengers, detailing any illnesses, deaths, or
potential health risks that may have occurred during the voyage.

Purpose:

 Preventing the Spread of Disease: The primary purpose is to prevent the introduction and spread of
infectious diseases from ships to port communities. This is particularly important for diseases that can
spread rapidly in close quarters, such as those found on ships.

 Public Health Protection: It allows port health authorities to assess the potential health risks associated
with a vessel's arrival and to take appropriate measures to protect public health.

 Facilitating Health Surveillance: It provides valuable data for health surveillance, enabling authorities to
monitor disease trends and respond to outbreaks.

 Ensuring Compliance with International Health Regulations: The Maritime Declaration of Health is
often required to comply with international health regulations, such as those set by the World Health
Organization (WHO).

Maintaining ship health standards involves adhering to a complex web of international health requirements. Key
aspects include:

1. International Health Regulations (IHR 2005):

 This World Health Organization (WHO) agreement aims to prevent the international spread of diseases.

 It mandates measures for disease monitoring, reporting, and response, applicable to ships entering
international ports.

 Requirements include:

o Ship Sanitation Certificates: These documents verify that a ship is free from sources of infection
and contamination.

o Maritime Declaration of Health: This document provides information on the health of persons on
board.

2. Maritime Labour Convention (MLC, 2006):

 This International Labour Organization (ILO) convention sets minimum standards for seafarers' working
and living conditions, including health.

 Key requirements:

o Access to Medical Care: Ensuring seafarers have access to prompt and adequate medical
care.

o Healthy Working and Living Environment: Providing a safe and hygienic working and living
environment.

o Food and catering: Ensuring the provision of nutritious food and safe drinking water.
 o Medically Fit: Seafarers must pass all the medical exams (physical and psychological tests) to
perform their duties.

6. International Maritime Organization (IMO) Regulations:

 The IMO also plays a role in ship health standards, often related to the safety of ships, which has a direct
effect on the health of those onboard.

 Regulations relating to the safe transportation of dangerous goods, and the regulations regarding
waste disposal at sea, all contribute to the health of the crew and passengers.

WHAT IS AN UNHEALTHY SHIP?

An unhealthy ship poses significant risks and consequences, impacting its operations and the responsibilities it
holds towards its crew and customers. Here's a breakdown of the effects:

Effects on Ship Operation:

 Increased Risk of Accidents:

o Poor maintenance can lead to equipment failures, increasing the likelihood of accidents like
collisions, groundings, and fires.

o Unsanitary conditions can contribute to disease outbreaks, incapacitating crew members and
hindering operations.

 Operational Inefficiency:

o Malfunctioning machinery and systems can cause delays, reduced speed, and increased fuel
consumption.

o Health issues among the crew can lead to staffing shortages and reduced productivity.

 Financial Losses:

o Delays and accidents can result in significant financial losses due to cargo damage, repairs, and
legal liabilities.

o Reputational damage can lead to loss of business and customer trust.

 Environmental Effects:

o Poorly maintained ships are more likely to experience leaks and spills, causing environmental
damage.

o Inadequat

o e waste management can contribute to pollution.

Common Impacts of the COVID-19

Common Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic delivered a severe shock to the global shipping industry, with
profound effects on both ship crews and the industry as a whole. Here's an explanation of those impacts:
Impact on Ship Crews:

 Crew Change Crisis:

o Travel restrictions and port closures led to a "crew change crisis," leaving hundreds of thousands
of seafarers stranded on ships beyond their contracted periods.

o This resulted in extreme fatigue, mental health strain, and increased risk of accidents.

o The inability to return home caused immense personal hardship and anxiety.

 Increased Health Risks:

o Seafarers faced heightened risks of contracting COVID-19 in close-quarters environments on

ships.

o Limited access to medical care and testing facilities at sea exacerbated these risks.

o Port restrictions sometimes denied seafarers access to shore-based medical attention.

 Mental and Emotional Strain:

o Prolonged isolation, uncertainty, and fear of infection took a heavy toll on seafarers' mental
health.

o The added stress of increased workloads and operational disruptions further compounded these
issues.

Impact on the Shipping Industry:

 Supply Chain Disruptions:

o Port closures, reduced port operations, and logistical bottlenecks caused significant disruptions
to global supply chains.

o Delays in cargo delivery led to shortages of essential goods and increased shipping costs.

 Economic Consequences:

o The pandemic caused a sharp decline in global trade, impacting shipping volumes and revenue.

o Cruise ship operations were particularly hard-hit, with widespread cancellations and financial
losses.

o Fluctuations in demand, and port congestion caused large increases in shipping costs.

 Operational Challenges:

o Shipping companies faced challenges in implementing safety protocols, managing crew

changes, and adapting to changing regulations.

o Increased administrative burdens and logistical complexities added to operational costs.

 o The pandemic accelerated the need for increased digitalization within the shipping industry.

 Port Congestion:

o Due to lock downs, and changing consumer demands, many ports became extremely congested.
This caused large delays, and increased costs for the industry

STCW 1978, as amended (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping)

- Rules for training and certifying seafarers. It makes sure all crew members are properly trained and
qualified for their jobs, so they can work safely and respond well to emergencies.

ITC 1969 (International Tonnage Convention)

- A system for measuring the size (tonnage) of ships. It ensures ships are designed with enough space
and stability for safety and comfort, and it standardizes safety rules based on ship size.

COSWP (Code of Safe Working Practices for Merchant Seafarers)

- A guidebook with safety advice for working on ships. It teaches crew how to avoid accidents and injuries,
promoting a safer workplace onboard.

ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security Code)

- A security code to protect ships and ports from threats like terrorism or piracy. It keeps the ship and
everyone on board secure by having proper security checks and emergency plans.

PAL 1974, as amended (Athens Convention relating to the Carriage of Passengers and their Luggage by
Sea)

- A law that protects passengers’ rights. It makes sure passengers are fairly treated and compensated if
they’re injured or their belongings are lost during a voyage.

MLC 2006 (Maritime Labour Convention)

- A “Bill of Rights” for seafarers. It ensures fair wages, safe working conditions, proper rest, medical care,
and decent living standards for the crew.

FAL 1965, as amended (Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic)

- A set of rules that simplifies and speeds up the paperwork and procedures for ships at ports.

1. It reduces delays by cutting down on unnecessary forms and inspections.

2. It makes it easier for ships to enter and leave ports quickly.
3. It saves time and money, which boosts global trade.

LLMC 1976 (Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims)

 - A law that limits how much shipowners have to pay for certain types of damage or loss.

1. Protects shipowners from huge financial losses.

2. Encourages investment and operations in shipping.
3. Helps settle claims faster, keeping shipping businesses running smoothly.

Marine Insurance, Liability, and Protest

Marine Insurance – It covers ships, cargo, and other risks at sea. It ensures that shipowners and cargo owners
are financially protected if something goes wrong—reducing risk and keeping trade flowing.

Liability – It is the legal responsibility for damage or loss. It sets clear rules for who pays for damages. This
clarity speeds up problem-solving and keeps shipping operations on track.

Protest (Sea Protest) - A formal statement made by the ship’s captain after an incident (like bad weather or
cargo damage). It protects the ship and crew legally and helps in insurance claims, making legal processes
quicker and more efficient.