From 1 January 2026, lifejacket regulations for all passenger vessels and cargo vessels over 400GT are changing.
It is likely that you have a number of lifejackets on board that are SOLAS improved and want to know, what does this change mean to you, your vessel and fleet. We have pulled together a handy guide to ensure you have the key information. Here’s what you need to know:
|
|
01 What is causing this change?
This change is coming into effect in line with MSC.554(108), an amendment to the International Life-Saving Appliance (LSA) Code adopted by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). In recent years, the IMO has identified the need to strengthen lifejacket performance standards to ensure they can reliably protect people in increasingly diverse and challenging maritime environments. This regulation change ensures these concerns have been addressed and ultimately, the in-water performance of SOLAS-approved lifejackets for the future.
|
02 When does MSC.554(108) come into effect?
The amendment comes into force on 1 January 2026, after which all SOLAS lifejackets supplied must comply with the updated performance standards. From this date forward, all newly supplied SOLAS lifejackets must comply with the revised performance criteria.
Lifejackets already onboard that meet SOLAS standards may remain acceptable, but operators should ensure that their current provider can support this, especially regarding documentation and certificates of approval..
03 How does this amendment affect ship operators?
Under the new regulation, operators must ensure that all new lifejackets procured after the enforcement date are certified to the new standard. Existing compliant lifejackets will remain valid, but certification evidence will become increasingly important for inspections and audits.
04 What changes does MSC.554(108) introduce?
The amendment introduces more stringent safety requirements for both passenger and commercial vessels. Including:
- Increased precautions to safeguard an unconscious person, ensuring they are turned onto their back and their airway is clear of water.
- Improved performance in challenging sea states.
- Additional verification of buoyancy distribution, face-freeboard, and body position stability.
05 Are Crewsaver lifejackets compliant with the new amendment?
Yes. The Seacrewsader, Twin Chamber, Ergofit, Premier, and Premier Compact are all compliant with SOLAS standards. This approval ensures the lifejacket has passed rigorous international testing for buoyancy, durability, and in-water performance. Due to the high quality of our product and dedication to protecting lives at sea, our lifejackets are already created in accordance with the new required standard.
Once the regulatory changes take effect in January 2026, Crewsaver will have available updated certificates of compliance, enabling operators to demonstrate full alignment with the revised LSA Code.
|
Why is Crewsaver re-certifying the SOLAS lifejacket range if it already meets the requirements?
While our range already meets the performance criteria, Crewsaver is undergoing formal recertification to the amended LSA Code. Doing this will enable us to provide customers with the official proof of compliance, easing future inspections and regulatory queries.
Re-certification ensures lifejackets are fully compliant with the latest SOLAS standards, allowing for smooth interactions with flag states, port authorities, and classification societies.
|
|
|
5 minute read
