Policy on Approved Materials and Fire Safety Compliance
We understand how exciting it is to personalize your villa and make it feel like home. However, for your safety, your home at sea must comply with IMO (International Maritime Organization) and SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) conventions, which establish standards for ship construction, equipment, and operation, including the use of non-combustible materials onboard.
Personal Decorative Touches
Small personal touches, such as adding decorations, small storage racks, or personal items, are generally permissible and do not raise safety concerns.
Furniture and Upholstery
When it comes to larger furnishings, specific regulations apply. Upholstered furniture, curtain fabrics, mattresses, and bedding must be certified as compliant with marine safety standards. These items are subject to Certificates of Conformity for Marine Equipment, confirming that they meet IMO and SOLAS fire safety standards for maritime use. Upholstery includes materials such as fabric, padding, and springs used to cover and cushion furniture like sofas and armchairs. All such items must be sourced from suppliers or manufacturers specializing in marine-grade products that comply with IMO and SOLAS safety requirements.
Renovating Your Villa
Maritime safety regulations are like building codes on land, ensuring the safety and structural integrity of the vessel. Any major renovations or modifications must comply with the fire safety and construction codes established by IMO and SOLAS. Additionally, materials permanently fixed to the ship’s structure must meet IHM (Inventory of Hazardous Materials) standards and require a Manufacturer's Declaration (MD) and a Supplier's Declaration of Conformity (SDoC).
Major renovations include:
- Removing desks, shelves, wall, or floor coverings (such as carpets, vinyl, or linoleum)
- Structural changes or additions
Such projects cannot be carried out independently, and materials purchased from typical retailers (such as Costco or Amazon) do not meet the required standards. All major modifications must be handled by an approved contractor familiar with maritime regulations, and the materials used must be compliant with IMO, SOLAS, and IHM standards.
VVR Assistance: You may source your own certified provider, or VVR can assist in organizing renovations through approved contractors. In any case, all modifications must be planned, approved, and executed by qualified personnel authorized to perform such work.