Final answer:
The SOLAS Convention sets minimum safety standards for ships, including ship design criteria, crew communication procedures, use of specific navigation equipment, and recommendations for safe navigation during heavy and rough weather conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) is a maritime treaty that sets minimum safety standards in the construction, equipment, and operation of merchant ships. The guidelines under SOLAS for handling heavy and rough weather conditions include several key aspects. First, SOLAS specifies ship design criteria that ensure vessels can withstand adverse weather. This involves structural integrity, stability requirements, and watertight subdivision. Secondly, the convention outlines procedures for crew communication, ensuring that all crew members are aware of necessary actions and can coordinate effectively during emergencies. Thirdly, it mandates the use of specific navigation equipment designed to aid in safely traversing through adverse weather conditions. Finally, SOLAS provides recommendations for safe navigation during such conditions, including route planning, speed adjustments, and the securing of cargo and equipment.