There are many different authorities that regulate the marine industry all over the world. This obviously includes the IMO or the International Maritime Organization and the European Union and the respective national governments in different countries. All the agreements, conventions, and resolutions regarding many aspects including fuel In Puerto Rico are crafted by various United Nations agencies like the ILO or the International Labor Organization.
One of the most common issues that the authorities face is the problem with safety. Unfortunately, even if these bodies do not fail to remind fleets and vessels, there are still some that fail to implement them.
The SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) International Convention
The SOLAS Convention has gone through many variations and forms. The first one was adopted in 1914 after the incident with the Titanic. After that, the convention went through improvements and it is now one of the most critical global treaties when it comes to the safety of merchant’s vessels.
What the SOLAS Convention aims is to do is specifically mandate minimum construction, operation standards, and equipment so that vessels can operate safely. The most basic provision includes the clause defining the division of passenger fleets into compartments that are watertight so that even if there are damages, it will still remain above the water.
Specific Safety Regulations for Different Vessels
If you own a passenger fleet or even just a simple yacht, there are safety regulations that you must adhere to. For example, it is mandated that bulk carriers be only used as a medium to transport non-packed commodities in bulk. This can include coal, iron ore, and grains from one point to another anywhere in the world.
Because of this, regulations with this type of vessel are focused more on the safe loading of the cargo in a way that the weight does not shift during the travel period.
Another type of ship that has a strict set of safety regulations is ferries. This has come to light after the tragic capsizing of the MS Herald of Free Enterprise and the disturbing sinking of MS Estonia in 1994. What these regulations emphasize is ensuring that these incidents do not happen again.
Lastly, passenger ships also need to follow safety regulations regarding how they are constructed and operated. Because of the tragic accidents that happened with passenger ships over time, the authorities have become stricter with the implementation of the safety requirements. The requirements put more emphasis on the availability of fire protection systems, life-saving equipment, and clear emergency escape routes.
Be Responsible and Fulfill Your Obligations
No matter what type of vessel you own, the bottom line is that you become responsible for it. Even if you think that you would not be affected, it is still best to submit your vessel for inspection to make sure that you are complying with everything that is required for your ship’s safety.
Finding a way to save on fuel In Puerto Rico would be pointless if your vessel runs into a safety issue.
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