SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) is the primary international maritime treaty governing ship safety, established by the IMO in 1914 following the Titanic disaster. It sets mandatory minimum standards for construction, equipment, and operations (fire safety, life-saving appliances, radio communication) to ensure safety on international voyages.

Key aspects of SOLAS include:
Application: Applies to merchant ships (typically 500+ gross tonnage) on international voyages.

Chapters: Consists of 14+ chapters covering construction, fire protection, life-saving appliances, navigation safety, and cargo management.

Key Regulation: Includes the "Verified Gross Mass" (VGM) requirement for container stowage under Chapter VI.

Compliance: Flag states (nations where ships are registered) are responsible for ensuring compliance.

Updates: The current version is SOLAS 1974, which is regularly amended.

The treaty is essential for maritime security, ensuring that vessels meet strict safety standards.