SOLAS Type II Retro Reflective Tapes are essential for marine and offshore safety. They help to make life-saving equipment more visible in the dark and in bad weather. In this blog post, we will explain what these tapes are, how they work, and why they are important.
What is SOLAS Type II Retro Reflective Tapes?
SOLAS stands for Safety of Life at Sea, which is an international convention that regulates maritime safety. SOLAS Type II Retro Reflective Tapes are a type of tape that meets the requirements of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) for enhancing the visibility of life-saving appliances.
These tapes are made of a special material that reflects light back to its source, regardless of the angle of incidence. This means that they can be seen from any direction, even when they are wet or submerged. They are also flexible and transparent, so they do not affect the appearance or function of the equipment they are attached to.
SOLAS Type II Retro Reflective Tapes are used on various types of life-saving appliances, such as:
- Life jackets
- Life rafts
- Life boats
- Rescue boats
- Buoyant apparatus
- Ring buoys
- Immersion suits
- Thermal protective aids
How do SOLAS Type II Retro Reflective Tapes work?
SOLAS Type II Retro Reflective Tapes work by using a principle called retroreflection. Retroreflection is the phenomenon where light rays are returned in the direction from which they came. This is different from regular reflection, where light rays bounce off a surface at an equal but opposite angle.
Retroreflection is achieved by using a special structure called an encapsulated lens. An encapsulated lens is a tiny sphere that has a reflective coating on the back and a transparent cover on the front. When light hits the front of the sphere, it bends and passes through to the back, where it reflects off the coating. Then, it bends again and passes through the front, where it exits in the same direction as it entered.
By using millions of these encapsulated lenses, SOLAS Type II Retro Reflective Tapes can create a bright and uniform reflection that is visible from any angle. The reflection is also white, which contrasts well with the dark background of the sea and sky.
Why are SOLAS Type II Retro Reflective Tapes important?
SOLAS Type II Retro Reflective Tapes are important because they can save lives in emergency situations. They can help to:
- Increase the chances of detection and rescue by search and rescue teams, especially when using helicopter lights or night vision devices.
- Reduce the risk of collision or damage by other vessels or objects in the water.
- Enhance the identification and recognition of life-saving appliances by survivors or rescuers.
- Improve the morale and confidence of survivors or rescuers by providing a visible sign of hope and safety.
SOLAS Type II Retro Reflective Tapes are also easy to use and maintain. They can be applied either by self-adhesive or by stitching, depending on the type of equipment. They are also resistant to water, salt, oil, UV rays, abrasion, and extreme temperatures. They have a long service life and do not require any special care or cleaning.
Where can I get SOLAS Type II Retro Reflective Tapes?
SOLAS Type II Retro Reflective Tapes are widely available from various suppliers and manufacturers. However, not all tapes are created equal. Some tapes may not meet the standards or specifications required by IMO or other authorities. Therefore, it is important to choose tapes that have been tested and certified by reputable organizations.
Some of the approvals that you should look for when buying SOLAS Type II Retro Reflective Tapes are:
MED Certification - according to Regulation (EU) 2020/1170, item MED/1.3, it is mandatory the retro-reflective materials are conforming SOLAS Regulation III/4 and Regulation X/3, and tested according to IMO Res. A.658(16), as amended. The MED certificate proves the conformity according to the applicable regulations.
EC declaration of conformity - it is the declaration of manufacturer and supplier that the product fulfils with the applicable European regulations.
TA - it is a Type Approval certificate that proves that the product fulfils with the applicable regulations.
Type Approval - LR2160191SS-01
SOLAS - XT1800A-Type II
USCG Approved in accordance with the Mutual Recognition Agreement - between the USA and the EC on mutual recognition of certificates of conformity for Marine Equipment - USCG Approval Category 164.018.
If you are looking for the best way to increase your safety on the water, look no further than Everlux Maritime's SOLAS Type II Retro Reflective Tapes. These tapes are specially designed to meet the highest standards of quality and durability in the marine environment. They can be applied to any type of safety equipment, such as life jackets, life rafts, lifeboats, or safety clothing, and they will provide excellent visibility in any situation, both in dry and wet conditions. They are also certified by IMO A658(16), which means they comply with the international regulations for safety at sea. Everlux Maritime's SOLAS Type II Retro Reflective Tapes are the ultimate choice for anyone who values safety and reliability on the water. They come in rolls of 50mm x 47.5mtrs. Don't settle for less, choose Everlux Maritime's SOLAS Type II Retro Reflective Tapes today.
*N&P Maritime (S.E.A.) Pte Ltd is the agent of Everlux Maritime, a company that designs and manufactures premium quality marine safety signs for marine, cruise ships, yacht and offshore installations. Contact us at sales@npmarine.sg and/or +65 97684033 if you have any questions or enquiries about marine safety signs.
**Everlux Maritime is a company that designs and manufactures premium quality IMO signs, marine signs, and complete safety signage solutions for marine and offshore industries. They have been in the business for over 30 years and are based in Portugal. Their products are IMO and ISO compliant, and they offer a wide range of IMO symbols and safety signs. Everlux Maritime’s products are manufactured using high-quality materials and manufacturing processes, which ensures that they meet the highest standards of quality and safety. They also have a team of experts who design their products to meet the latest IMO regulations. Their products are tested to ensure that they meet the highest standards of quality and safety. Everlux Maritime’s products are also backed by excellent customer service, which ensures that their customers receive the support they need when they need it.
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