The Four Pillars of the International Maritime Organization (IMO)

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) establishes global standards to promote safety, protect the marine environment, ensure proper training of seafarers, and safeguard their welfare. These standards are anchored on four key conventions known as the 4 Pillars of IMO: 1. SOLAS – Safety of Life at Sea (1974) SOLAS is considered the most important international treaty concerning maritime safety. It sets the minimum standards for the construction, equipment, and operation of ships to ensure they are safe for both crew and passengers. This includes: • Fire protection systems • Life-saving appliances • Navigation and communication requirements • Emergency preparedness Its ultimate purpose is to prevent loss of lives at sea. 2. MARPOL – Marine Pollution (1973/1978) MARPOL addresses the prevention of pollution from ships. It regulates: • Oil and chemical spills • Sewage and garbage discharge • Air emissions from ships Its goal is to protect the marine and coastal environment by minimizing pollution from ship operations and accidents. 3. STCW – Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (1978) STCW sets global training and competency standards for seafarers working on commercial vessels. It ensures: • Seafarers are properly trained, qualified, and certified • Uniform watchkeeping and operational safety practices across the world This helps maintain a high level of professionalism and safety at sea. 4. MLC – Maritime Labour Convention (2006) The MLC is often called the “Seafarers’ Bill of Rights.” It ensures that seafarers have: • Fair wages and employment contracts • Safe working and living conditions • Adequate rest hours • Medical care, social protection, and welfare The convention promotes human rights and dignity for those working at sea.

HOW TO USE FIRE EXTINGUISHER

A fire extinguisher is a vital safety device designed to control or extinguish small fires in emergency situations. It works by releasing an agent—such as water, foam, dry chemical, or CO₂—that suppresses the fire, preventing it from spreading and minimizing damage or injury. Fire extinguishers are essential on ships, workplaces, and homes as a first line of defense against fire hazards. Proper operation of a fire extinguisher can be remembered with the PASS method: ‣ Pull – Remove the safety pin to unlock the extinguisher. ‣ Aim – Direct the nozzle at the base of the fire, where it feeds on fuel. ‣ Squeeze – Press the handle to discharge the extinguishing agent. ‣ Sweep – Move the nozzle side to side across the base until the fire is completely out.

Safety Valves vs Relief Valves

Safety Valves vs Relief Valves: Understanding Their Roles in Marine Engineering Safety valves and relief valves are crucial pressure-control devices used throughout marine and industrial systems, but they are often misunderstood or used interchangeably. In reality, each valve serves a distinct purpose based on the type of fluid in the system and the level of protection required. Safety valves are primarily used in systems containing compressible fluids, such as steam, air, or gas. Their main purpose is to prevent dangerous overpressure conditions that can occur suddenly, especially in boilers and steam lines. When pressure reaches the set limit, a safety valve opens instantly, releasing a large amount of steam or gas in what is known as “pop action.” This rapid discharge prevents severe equipment damage, structural failure, and potential explosions, making safety valves one of the most critical safety components on board a vessel.

Maritime Zones Explained: The Boundaries of Our Seas

The concept of maritime zones is a cornerstone of international maritime law, defined primarily by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). These zones determine the extent of a coastal state’s rights, responsibilities, and jurisdiction over the waters and resources adjacent to its shores. Background • Maritime zones were established to resolve disputes over navigation, resource ownership, and national security. • Boundaries are measured from a country’s baseline (usually the low-water mark along the coast). • The key zones include: • Internal Waters – full sovereignty like land territory. • Territorial Sea – up to 12 nautical miles. • Contiguous Zone – up to 24 nautical miles. • Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) – up to 200 nautical miles. • Continental Shelf – may extend beyond 200 nautical miles depending on natural features. Purpose • Internal Waters – treated like land territory, full state control. • Territorial Sea (12 nm) – authority over navigation, resources, and law enforcement. • Contiguous Zone (24 nm) – enforcement against smuggling, illegal entry, and security threats. • Exclusive Economic Zone (200 nm) – exclusive rights to explore and exploit resources (fish, oil, gas). • Continental Shelf – rights over seabed resources even beyond EEZ. Importance • Safeguards national security and territorial sovereignty. • Ensures sustainable use of marine resources (fisheries, oil, gas). • Provides control over shipping routes and trade lifelines. • Strengthens sovereignty in disputed waters (vital for nations like the Philippines). • Globally, reduces conflict, promotes order and cooperation, and protects the marine environment.