Proposed update to legislation implementing SOLAS Chapter V: Safety of Navigation

Overview

The Isle of Man Ship Registry is in the process of updating Regulations relating to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS).

This Consultation Paper is on the proposed updates to the Isle of Man’s Regulations implementing SOLAS Chapter V, Safety of Navigation. The SOLAS Chapter V requirements relate to navigational equipment carried on board ships, navigational procedures and reporting requirements.

Most SOLAS Regulations only apply to large commercial ships, however some sections of SOLAS Chapter V also apply to small commercial ships, pleasure craft and fishing vessels. Therefore the Isle of Man’s SOLAS Chapter V Regulations will be applicable to all ships registered with the Isle of Man Ship Registry (except for commercial yachts), and local pleasure craft and small commercial vessels registered with the Isle of Man’s Ports Division. 

Why your views matter

As these Regulations form part of an International Convention, there is limited scope for interpretation and the Regulations will require the shipowner and master to comply with SOLAS Chapter V as is applicable to the type of ship. The areas where the Ship Registry does have some discretion to determine how the Convention is applied is with regard to smaller ships (below 150gt) and this is explained further in Sections 3 & 4. We would appreciate feedback from operators of smaller ships on these Sections.

What happens next

We will examine the replies to the consultation and publish a review of the responses. The responses will be used to help draft new legislation.