Global Changes to The SOLAS Convention

On the 1st July 2016, amendments to the globally recognised Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS) will be made. This will stipulate all cargo ships involved in the loading of containers for export must provide a verified gross mass to ship operators and marine terminal operators.

Enforced by The International Maritime Organization (IMO), the change comes at the request of ship operators and Union of Transport workers who have spent the last two years debating the topic.

When asked about the increase in safety measures, Paul Moody, Managing Director of Solent Scales commented:

“I think it’s a great move to ensure the reduction of accidents relating to the maritime community, many of whom are part of our valued customer base. We stand by our certified and calibrated equipment and encourage any maritime workers who have not yet purchased industry certified equipment to visit our website and look at our Weighbridges”.

Anyone caught supplying estimated weight will be subject to legal action. For further information on the changes to regulations’, maritime staff have been advised to refer to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) guidance on the Gov.uk website for clarification. 

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