SOLAS & MED – what does it actually mean?

SOLAS – International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea

"SOLAS" stands for "Safety of Life at Sea" and is the most important international framework for safety in maritime shipping. It was adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), a specialised agency of the United Nations, and is legally binding for all signatory states.

The convention sets minimum requirements for the design, equipment and operation of merchant vessels – to protect human life at sea, prevent accidents and enable effective rescue in an emergency. Key areas include:

• Construction standards for stability and fire protection
• Mandatory life-saving appliances such as lifejackets, distress signals, life rafts and emergency lighting
• Operational measures, e.g. emergency plans, alarm and communication systems
• Crew training and certification
• Provisions for the transport of dangerous goods and for passenger and cargo vessels of various classes

Products labelled SOLAS-compliant – such as chemical protective suits, specific lifejackets, lights or signalling devices – have been proven to meet the safety requirements of this convention.

MED – the EU Marine Equipment Directive

The Marine Equipment Directive (MED), officially Directive 2014/90/EU, sets the safety requirements for equipment on seagoing ships in the EU. It ensures a uniform level of safety at sea while allowing marine equipment to move freely within the European single market.

The MED applies to equipment on ships flying the flag of an EU member state and covers in particular:

• Life-saving appliances (e.g. lifejackets, life rafts, distress signals)
• Fire protection and firefighting equipment – including firefighter’s outfits
• Navigation and communication equipment (e.g. radar, AIS, radio)
• Ship safety devices (e.g. emergency lighting, alarms)

The Wheelmark

To be used within the scope of the MED, a product must pass a conformity assessment by a Notified Body. Once approved it carries the Wheelmark – the mandatory mark for MED-approved equipment. It confirms that the equipment:

• meets the applicable EU safety and performance requirements
• has been tested and approved to harmonised technical standards
• is subject to regular quality control and surveillance

Which products are approved is stated on each product page (Approvals) and in the datasheet. The current MED implementing regulation is in the download area.

Go to downloads →