SOLAS Lifebuoys

Shop SOLAS approved Lifebuoys

he SOLAS-approved orange lifebuoy is the international standard for marine safety.

These SOLAS lifebuoys meet the stringent safety requirements defined by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and are essential equipment for any seagoing vessel.

Our high-quality SOLAS lifebuoys are designed to support the rescue of anyone at risk of drowning. Standard SOLAS lifebuoys weigh around 2.5 kg, while SOLAS MOB (Man Overboard) lifebuoys weigh between 4 and 4.5 kg. The latter are typically used during MOB manoeuvres, often in combination with a light-and-smoke signal.

Constructed with a robust hard-plastic shell, these lifebuoys are fully weather-resistant and built for long-term durability. Maritime regulations require that lifebuoys display the vessel’s name and port of registry. In our online shop, you can personalise your SOLAS lifebuoy (sometimes called a life ring) with a vessel name, boat name, or port of registry for both compliance and style.

The SOLAS safety standards were created to ensure all vessels carry lifesaving equipment of the highest standard. Modern SOLAS lifebuoys also comply with MED and EN14144 regulations, guaranteeing that vessels—especially those operating offshore—are equipped in line with international safety requirements.

Shop SOLAS lifebuoys online today for reliable, approved, and customisable marine safety equipment, with fast UK delivery.

SOLAS Lifebuoy Standards – International Safety Requirements for Ships

The SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) Convention sets the international standards for the safety of people on board ships.

Officially titled the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974, SOLAS defines strict requirements for lifebuoys used in international shipping.

Key SOLAS Requirements for Lifebuoys

  • Must be made of solid cork or an equivalent material, and support at least 14.5 kg of iron in fresh water for 24 hours.
  • Must be oil-resistant and highly visible, typically in orange.
  • Must display the ship’s name and port of registry in block lettering.
  • Loose granulated material fillings are not permitted.
  • Must retain buoyancy and durability in seawater and under temperature variations.
  • Each lifebuoy must be fitted with grab lines, and at least one on each side of the vessel must have a floating throw line.
  • On passenger ships, half of all lifebuoys must be fitted with a floating lifebuoy light, and at least two must include a self-activating smoke signal for man-overboard (MOB) manoeuvres.
  • Lifebuoys must be readily accessible and not permanently secured, allowing for rapid deployment in an emergency.

SOLAS Lifebuoy Dimensions

  • Inner diameter: minimum 400 mm
  • Outer diameter: maximum 800 mm
  • Weight: minimum 2.5 kg (MOB lifebuoy: minimum 4 kg)
  • Grab line: diameter 9.5 mm, length at least four times the outer diameter of the lifebuoy, secured at four equally spaced points

Required Number of Lifebuoys by Ship Type

Cargo ships

  • Under 100 m: 8 lifebuoys
  • 100 m: 10 lifebuoys
  • 150 m: 12 lifebuoys
  • 200 m: 14 lifebuoys

Passenger ships

  • Under 60 m: 8 lifebuoys
  • 60–120 m: 12 lifebuoys
  • 120–180 m: 18 lifebuoys
  • 180–240 m: 24 lifebuoys
  • Over 240 m: 30 lifebuoys

Why Compliance Matters

Meeting SOLAS lifebuoy standards ensures maximum safety at sea and provides essential protection for crew and passengers in the event of an emergency.