10.

0 Life Saving Appliances

10.1 Introduction

All personnel must be fully aware of the different types of lifesaving equipment available on-board
the ship and also within the survival crafts. Good on-board training including regular drills will help
to ensure familiarisation with this equipment.

10.2 SOLAS Training Manual

SOLAS Chapter III, Regulation 35 requires that a Training Manual is available onboard.

The training manual must explain the following as a minimum in detail:

 Donning of lifejackets, immersion suites and anti-exposure suits, as appropriate
 Muster at the assigned stations
 Boarding, launching and clearing the survival craft and rescue boats, including, where
applicable, use of marine evacuation systems
 Fall Preventer Devices (FPD) where used
 Method of launching from within the survival craft
 Release from launching appliances;
 Methods and use of devices for protection in launching areas, where appropriate
 Illumination in launching areas
 Use of all survival equipment
 Use of all detection equipment
 With the assistance of illustrations, the use of radio lifesaving appliances
 Use of drogues
 Use of engine and accessories
 Recovery of survival craft and rescue boats including stowage and securing
 Hazards of exposure and the need for warm clothing
 Best use of the survival craft facilities in order to survive
 Methods of retrieval, including the use of helicopter rescue gear (slings, baskets,
stretchers), breeches-buoy and shore lifesaving apparatus and ship’s life-throwing
apparatus
 All other functions contained in the Muster List and emergency instructions
 Instructions for emergency repair of the lifesaving appliances
SOLAS Training Manual Process
The Safety Officer is responsible for this process.

1. Ensure the manual:

A. Written in a language understood by all

B. Contains illustrations & diagrams

C. Ship –specific

D. Contains the latest supplements (Check with manufacturer).

2. Place one copy in the following locations:

A. Crew mess room

B. Officers mess room

3. If new equipment is supplied

A. Update the training manual

B. Conduct crew familiarisation

10.3 Life Jackets

Life jackets can be stowed:

 Near to the normal embarkation locations
 Cabins
 Other readily accessible locations
Lifejacket Process
The Master is responsible for this process.

1. Ensure lifejackets design does not:

A. Impede entry into enclosed lifeboats

B. Get in the way of release mechanisms

2. Ensure lifejackets stowed either:

♦ Near to normal embarkation location

(i) In container that is

1. Dry

2. Unlocked

♦ Cabins or other suitable locations ensuring they a

(i) They are readily accessible

(ii) Clearly indicated by correct sign

3. Ensure sufficient lifejackets for

A. Persons on watch

- Bridge

- Engine control room

B. Remotely located survival craft stations

4. Display lifejacket donning instructions:

A. Throughout the ship in conspicuous locations

B. At lifejacket stowage areas

5. Inspect lifejackets monthly, for:

A. Cleanliness

B. Condition

C. Lights

D. Whistles

E. Retro-reflective tape
 F. Ties

6. If lifejackets stowed in containers outside of accommodation:

A. Air at least every two months

7. If inflatable lifejackets are carried:

a) Check monthly for punctures

b) Send ashore yearly for servicing

Note: Some flag states (i.e. Marshall Islands) require the person-in-charge and the second-in-
command of each lifeboat have their lifejackets specifically marked.

10.3.1 Oversized Lifejackets

All ships over 500 GT, constructed on or after 1 July 1998 and engaged on international voyages
must have a sufficient number of adult lifejackets to fit persons weighing up to 140 kg and with a
chest girth of up to 1,750 mm.
Oversized Lifejacket Process
The Master is responsible for this process.

1. Download ShipSure Generic RA (G110)

A. Make ship-specific
Note: Inspecting authorities, such as Flag state administration and PSC may ask for this.

2. If crew onboard is:

♦ <25 persons

Carry one lifejacket which meets the SOLAS & LSA Code requirements
▶▶

♦ 25 – 40 person

8 Carry two lifejacket which meets the SOLAS & LSA Code requirements
▶▶

10.4 Immersion Suits

An immersion suit will be provided for every person onboard.

An immersion suit must:

 Be quick and easy to put on
 Protect the user from rapidly losing body heat
Enables the user to remain face-up in the water
Note: Some suits also require the wearing of a lifejacket.
Caution: Before entering the water, the suit must be correctly fastened and undamaged. This is
very important if the suit is loose fitting.
Immersion Suit Process
The Master is responsible for this process.

1. Ensure personnel wear the suits during regular training

2. Check monthly in accordance with

A. Manufactures instructions:

B. Flag requirements

C. As a minimum:

See - MSC/Circ.1047
▶▶

3. Subject suits to air pressure tests at intervals not exceeding 3 years

Note: More frequently if over 10 years old as determined by the Flag State.

A. Test in accordance with criteria outlined:

See - MSC/Circ.1114
▶▶

B. If vessel not equipped for testing

- Send to shore-based facility

10.5 Thermal Protective Aids (TPA)

A Thermal Protective Aid (TPA) is capable of reflecting 87% of radiated body heat.

TPAs can be used to:

 Assist the recovery of persons suffering from hypothermia
 Prevent persons becoming hypothermic
Note: If a TPA is worn in a survival craft where there is a possibility of capsizing or being swept
away, a lifejacket must also be worn.

Useful information on the cause, symptoms, effects, treatment and prevention of hypothermia can
be found:

See – Hypothermia Document

▶▶

10.6 Lifeboats

The measures to prevent accidents with lifeboats, described within IMO Circular MSC402(96) , are
compulsory.
 See - IMO Circular MSC.402(96)
▶▶

See - Correction to MSC.402(96)

▶▶

IMO Circular MSC1578 stresses the importance for all crew to be well familiarised and trained in
the operation of the boats and launching equipment.

See - IMO Circular MSC1578

▶▶

For further guidance:

See - Guide for safe launching and recovery by using fall preventer devices
▶▶
Note: Atmosphere tests for Oxygen and Carbon Monoxide must be conducted on enclosed
lifeboats during engine running for routine testing and drills. To prevent ingress of exhaust gases
from outside during testing , close hatches/doors . Record O2 and CO readings in SAF25 and
SSTRB Checklist 3.2.
Lifeboat Lowering / Recovery Process
The Master is responsible for this process.
Note: The following process is not applicable in an emergency.

Warning!
Do not launch boats while underway, unless in a emergency. In addition, drills must only be where
there is a minimum of vessel movement.

1. Conduct RA

2. Create critical operations checklist (SAF16)

A. Ensure Superintendent reviews prior to use

3. Ensure PPE worn including the following for persons embarking:

A. Harness

B. Hard hat

C. Lifejacket

4. If launching the lifeboat:

♦ With persons onboard

(i) Use Fall Prevention Device (FPD)

(ii) Lower boat with minimum required persons

♦ Without persons onboard(When it is impracticable to fit FPDs)

Caution: Boarding the lifeboat by the shipside embarkation ladder should be avoided.

(i) Consider safest means of boarding (i.e. hired boat or accommodation ladder)

(ii) Conduct RA

(iii) If any doubt to the safety of boarding, continue operation as far as practical to
examine:

Davit sheaves

Winches

Brakes

(iv) If operation cannot continue record in official logbook

Warning!
Do not, in normal circumstances, lower lifeboats over quaysides, obstructions in the water, small
boats alongside etc.
Note: However, if it is necessary to lower boats in such conditions (e.g. by the demand of a Port
State Inspector) then hanging off pennants should be used as a precaution.

5. Ensure when re-attaching falls:

A. Release lever secured

B. Guard / pins in place

10.6.1 Fall Prevention Devices (FPDs)

All crewmembers with responsibilities for launching the lifeboats must be aware of the content of
the following:

See – BIMCO FPDs Guidance

▶▶

See - FPD Basics

▶▶

10.6.2 Maintenance & Inspection

Lifeboats and associated gear must be maintained correctly in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions.

SOLAS Chapter III, Regulation 20.7.2 states:

“Inspection of the life-saving appliances, including lifeboat equipment, shall be carried out monthly
using the checklist required by regulation 36.1 to ensure that they are complete and in good order.
A report of the inspection shall be entered in the log-book.”

SOLAS Chapter III, Regulation 36:

Instructions for on-board maintenance of life-saving appliances shall be easily understood,

illustrated wherever possible, and, as appropriate, shall include the following for each appliance:

36 SOLAS Chapter III, Regulation 36 Application

. Requirement

.1 A checklist for use when carrying out Use SSTRB Checklists

the inspections required by regulation
20.7

.2 Maintenance and repair instructions Available in the maker’s manual and inserted into the
SOLAS Training Manuals onboard the Planned
Maintenance System
.3 Schedule of periodic maintenance Available in the maker’s manual and inserted into the
SOLAS Training Manual onboard and in the Planned
Maintenance System

.4 Diagram of lubrication points with the Available in the maker’s manual and inserted into the
recommended lubricants Planned Maintenance System and included in
greasing schedule

.5 List of replaceable parts Available in the maker’s manual and in the vessel’s
“Critical Spares” inventories

.6 List of sources of spare parts Available in the maker’s manual and in the vessel’s
“Critical Spares” inventories

.7 Log for records of inspections and SSTRB and vessel’s Planned Maintenance System
maintenance should contain the necessary records.

Maintenance & Inspection Frequency

See – Survival Craft Maintenance Requirements

▶▶
Note:Enter a report of the tests and inspections in the SSTRB or PMS.

Maintenance Criteria for Lifeboats, Launching Appliances and On-Load Release Gear

Work conducted and the selection of personnel carrying out the work should be done in
accordance with:

See – IMO Circular MSC.402(96)

▶▶

See – IMO Circular MSC1277

▶▶
Note: Weekly and monthly inspections and routine maintenance specified in equipment
maintenance manuals can be performed by shipboard personnel under the direction of a senior
officer in accordance with the maintenance manual.

Annual and five-year thorough examinations and operational tests shall be conducted by certified
personnel from the manufacturer or by Flag authorised service providers.
As detailed within MSC.1/Circ.1618 -the thorough examinations, overhauls and operational tests,
carried out at intervals of at least once every five years, should be done in the presence of a
Recognised Organisation surveyor.

MSC.402(96) sets new mandatory requirements regarding the qualification, authorisation and
certification of service suppliers and the procedures for maintenance and testing.
(An original equipment manufacturer (OEM) does not need to be authorised to service its own
equipment).
Equipment manufacturers may service equipment that is not their own only if they meet the
stricter requirements and are certified ( including service personnel) for each make and type of
equipment.
The Flag Administration or their Recognised Organisations (if delegated ) are required to authorise
service suppliers and provide a list of approved service suppliers.
This applies to service suppliers maintaining lifeboats, rescue boats, launching appliances
(including life-raft davits) and release gear.
Lifeboat General Maintenance Process
The Master is responsible for this process.

Warning!
On opening the lifeboat door, it is recommended to ventilate and then monitor atmosphere with gas
detection for CO before entering the lifeboat
Note: The following process applies to all work conducted on:

- Lifeboats
- Lifeboat davits
- Braking system
- Release system

1. Ensure lifeboats:

A. Kept clean

B. All equipment correctly stowed & secured

C. Ready for immediate use

2. Ensure sufficient stock of consumable spares are onboard

A. Document in TEC18
Note: When ordering spare parts, use proper categorisation for safety equipment to ensure
prompt supply.

3. Ensure prior to any maintenance:

A. RA is conducted
Note: Include lifeboat securing method as a control measure in risk assessment (i.e. maintenance
strops, safety pins).

- Make content of RA available to all involved

B. Critical operation checklist is conducted

- Ensuring all safety precautions are in place

Note: Checklists should be used to ensure standard safe operating procedures are followed,
including proper stowing/securing of the boats after use.

4. Ensure lifeboats & associated gear are maintained in accordance with :

A. Makers manual

B. SSTRB Requirements

C. PMS
5. Secure lifeboat prior to maintenance (i.e. maintenance strops, safety pins)
Caution: No additional securing arrangements should be utilised which are not included in the
lowering/free-fall instructions.

6 Ensure maintenance witnessed by senior officer when conducted by shore-based service

. company
Note: If Superintendent present onboard during the maintenance, he should also witness.

A On completion, ensure a statement is issued by the authorised service provider, confirming the
. lifeboat arrangements remain fit for purpose .

7. Lower and exercise in water at earliest opportunity after maintenance

8. Record maintenance in either:

A. PMS or;

B. SSTRB

10.6.3 Lifeboat On-Load Release Gear

1. Ensure manufacturer’s instructions onboard

2 Conduct under direct supervision of senior officer and in accordance with equipment
. maintenance manual:

A. Weekly inspections

B. Monthly inspections

C. Routine maintenance

3. Examine release gear:

A. Prior to operational test

B. After operational tests

C. After dynamic winch break tests

4. Renew release cables at intervals not exceeding 5 years

1. Lower boat partially into the water so the boat is substantially supported by the falls

2. Operate the on-load release gear

3. Reset the on-load release gear

1. Lower boat fully into the water

2. Operate off-load release gear

3. Reset release gear

4. Recover lifeboat to the stowed position

A. Ensure ready for launching in an emergency

1. Ensure overhaul of on-load release gear includes:

A. Dismantling of hook release units;

B. Examination with regard to tolerances and design requirements;

C. Adjustment of release gear system after assembly;

D. Operational test as above

E. Examination of vital parts for defects and cracks

1. Ensure the following minimum criteria is stated in the notes section of the PO:

A. ISO Certification

B. More than two years’ experience in servicing of Lifeboats and launching equipment

C. Servicing carried out by trained colleagues

D. Records to verify traceability of parts are supplied

E. Existence of documented procedures and instructions

2.Collect as much documented evidence of compliance with the above criteria as possible

10.6.4 Lifeboat Falls

Lifeboat Falls Wire Terminations

See – Wire Rope Terminations

▶▶

Life
boat Falls Annual Inspection

See – Lifeboat Falls Wire Termination

▶▶

1. Ensure (in accordance with PMP) that falls are regularly :

A. Examined for:

- Damage

- Broken strands

B. Greased

- Use correct type of grease

2. Conduct annual inspection

See - Lifeboat Falls Annual Inspection

▶▶

A. Inspect also connecting chains for signs of:

- Significant corrosion

- Damages / defect (i.e. cracks)

3. Renew wire falls

♦ If their strength is compromised by:

♦ At intervals not exceeding 5 years regardless of condition

A. Stencil renewal dates on either:

- Davits or;

- Other suitable close and visible location

B. Retain falls certificates

4. Maintain records of:

A. Annual inspections

- Including results

B. Renewal of falls

C. End-to-end turning of wires (if conducted)

5. Ensure class surveyor verifies records during periodical safety equipment survey

10.6.5 Lifeboat Winch

Lifeboat Winch Annual Inspection
1. Open brake assemblies at regular intervals, inspect for:

A. Linings contaminated with grease

- If linings contaminated with grease, inform Management Office

2. Conduct annual winch inspection

See - Lifeboat Winch Annual Inspection

▶▶

3. Conduct annual winch brake dynamic testing:

A. Lower empty boat

B. Abruptly apply brakes at maximum lowering speed before boat enters water

4. Conduct five-year operational testing

A Lower boat loaded with proof load 1.1 times weight of full complement of persons and
. equipment

B. Abruptly apply brakes at maximum lowering speed before boat enters water

5. Examine following above test:

A. Brake pads

B. Stressed structural parts

C. Operation of devices for activation of release gear

D. Excessive free play (tolerances)

E. Hydrostatic interlock system, where fitted

F. Cables for control and release

G. Hook fastening; including link plate, keel shoe, bolts and etc.

10.6.6 Lifeboat Davits

Lifeboat Davits Maintenance Process
The Master is responsible for this process.

1.Secure davits with harbour safety pins or other safety devices when servicing in stowed position

2. Regularly examine the following for condition & operation:

A. Davit structure, with regard to:

- Corrosion

- Misalignments

- Deformations

- Excessive free play

- ego in bearings or track rollers

B. Wires and sheaves (kinks and corrosion)

C. Track-ways free of rust lubrication of moving parts carried

D. Functioning of limit switches – tested every boat drill;

E. Hydraulic systems

F. Stored power systems including a check on capacity

G. Condition and reeving or remote control wires, pulleys etc

3. Maintain greasing and maintenance schedule within the PMS

10.6.7 Free-Fall Lifeboats

Free-Fall Lifeboat Process
The Master is responsible for this process.
Note: This process is not applicable in an emergency.

1. Ensure all crew reference operation manual for familiarity with:

A. Launching operations

B. Recovery operations

2. Ensure free-fall lifeboat readiness by:

A. Unscrewing and lashing heaving brackets onto the davits when at sea

B. Checking release gear is correctly set

Caution: During maintenance caution must be taken so as not to accidentally set off the release
mechanism.

3. Establish communications between the operating crew and the responsible person

4. Launch only in very calm seas

5. If free-fall launching:

A. Ensure sufficient room astern of vessel for launch

Note: Open water area of at least one and a half times the expected distance for the lifeboat to be
brought to a standstill.

B. Launch Rescue Boat (stand-by boat in case of emergency)

C. Lower boat to water

D. Test Motor

E. Re-stow

F. Free-fall launch

6. If simulated launching:

A. Ensure restraining device(s) for simulated launching are installed and secure

B. Participating crew board the lifeboat and fasten seatbelts

C. All crew, except the operating crew, disembark the lifeboat

D. Crew activate release mechanism on instruction from responsible person

- Ensure release mechanism operates satisfactorily

E. Re-stow
- Ensure free-fall release mechanism is correctly engaged
Note: Repeat launching using back-up release mechanism if applicable.

F. Crew disembarks lifeboat

G. Return lifeboat to normal stowed condition

- Remove restraining and/or recovery devices used for the simulated launch

H. Ensure lifeboat is ready for launching in emergency

7. Record launch in log book stating whether:

A. Free-fall or;

B. Simulated

- If in doubt contact DPA

Free-Fall Lifeboat Emergency Air Process
The Third Officer is responsible for this process.

1. Check cylinder contents during routine safety inspection

2. If air compressor and requisite hoses for filling air cylinders carried:

A. Test monthly

10.6.8 Lifeboat Engines

Lifeboat engines must be tested according to:

 The following process
 Manufacturer’s instructions
Lifeboat Engine Process
The Master is responsible for this process.

1. Run on idle speed for 4-5 minutes weekly, monitoring:

A. Cooling water temperature

Note: Test applies to the engine only. The test on the propeller/tailshaft is to be for only brief
periods (e.g. 5 seconds) in order to prove that the clutch and gearbox are operational.

2. Run on high load / revolutions for 15 to 30 minutes during in-water testing

3. If totally enclosed boats:

A. Check exhaust pipes

B. Take CO readings during engine tests

Note: For air cooled engines, reference manufacturer’s instructions for details of testing.

4. Top up fuel tanks after testing

5. Regularly inspect and clean as required:

A. Fuel oil

B. Lubricating oil

C. Air filters

10.7 Fast Rescue Boats

10.7.1 Fast Rescue Boat Sling Assemblies

10.7
.2 Polyurethane Foam-Filled Compartments
1. Conduct weekly & monthly checks in accordance with:

A. SSTRB

B. Manufacturers recommendations

2. Ensure lifting slings are inspected weekly (SSTRB Checklist 3.1)

A. Report any defects to management office

- Replace sling
1. Follow manufacturers recommendations regarding:

A. Periodic testing

B. Examination

C. Replacement of safety devices

2. If secondary means of power is fitted:

A. Train ships colleagues in its use

B. Include in weekly checks

3. Verify watertight seals on electrical equipment fitted to davit system on weather deck

4. Test all overload systems on davit prior to hoisting

1. Check manufactures manual for:

A. Load calculation

B. Associated breaking strain for slings

2. Ensure shackle pins have double securing – nut plus split pin

A. Safety split pins to be stainless steel

3. Replace contaminated slings immediately

4. Ensure new or replacement slings inspected by Chief Officer for:

A. Markings / colour coding in accordance with certifications

See - Rescue Boat Sling Assemblies

▶▶

B. Condition

5. Replace lifting slings every 5 years regardless of condition

10.8 Liferafts
10.8.1 Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU)

See – Example HRU Arrangements

▶▶
Liferaft Process
The Master is responsible for this process.

1. Post launching instructions at stowage station

2. Store embarkation ladder beside lift raft ensuring:

A. Sufficient length to reach waterline when ship is in her lightest condition

B. Regular inspection of ladders

- Repair as required

3. Ensure HRUs installed in accordance with manufacturers instruction

See - 10.8.1 Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU)

▶▶

A. Display illustrated diagram of the release unit rigging on either:

- Liferaft canister or;

- Adjacent to the stowage position

4. Ensure painters secured to ship via HRU

Note: If for any reason a painter has to be unfastened before a life raft is launched it must be
made fast again before launching.

5. Mark dates of inspection on liferaft container

a) Request service report and file onboard

Note: Ensure liferafts that are landed ashore for service or maintenance, are returned in time to
allow the vessel to sail or arrangements made to hire liferafts.
Caution: When a liferaft is returned onboard after servicing, the Safety Officer must check for
correct stowage, markings and transit bands. It should be considered that some transit bands,
where present, may indicate that they should be removed after stowage.

Warning!
On no account must a vessel proceed to sea without the required number of liferafts or any other life
saving appliances unless written permission has been granted by flag state.

10.9 Lifebuoys
Lifebuoy Process
The Master is responsible for this process.

1. Ensure lifebuoys are clearly marked with ships:

A. Name

B. Port of registry

2. Inspect monthly for:

A. General condition

B. Signs of cracking

- Replace if cracks found

C. Retro-reflective tape in good condition

D. Buoyant lines (if attached):

- Inspected for wear

- Untangled if necessary

E. Self-actuating lights:

- Correctly stowed

- Tested
Note: Lifebuoys fitted with signalling equipment intended to be used with quick release
arrangements must have a minimum weighty of 4Kg.

3. Ensure for bridge mounted man-overboard lifebuoys:

A. Release pins

- Free

- Well greased

B. Lines between buoy and smoke float are:

- Clear of obstructions

- Good condition
Note: On tankers and other types of ships carrying dangerous cargo, lifebuoy lights should be
intrinsically safe.
Note: MSC.1/Circ.1618 clarifies that the lifebuoy fitted with both light and a line as per
MSC.1/Circ.1331 for compliance with SOLAS Reg II-1/3-9.2 should not be taken into account in
considering compliance with SOLAS Reg III - 22.1.1/ 32.1.1
10.10 Pyrotechnics
Pyrotechnics Process
The Master is responsible for this process.

1. Store in suitable location on or near bridge

A. Mark with IMO sign

2. Inspect every two months for:

A. Signs of moisture / leakage

B. General condition

3. Dispose of out-of-date items ashore

Warning!
Do not use expired pyrotechnics for testing or practice.

10.11 Survival Craft VHF Radios

Primary battery shelf life must be at least 2 years and be:

 highly visible yellow/orange colour or;
marked with a surrounding yellow/orange marking strip.
Note: For radios installed on or after 1st July 2005 revised performance standards for survival craft
portable two-way VHF radiotelephone apparatus applies (Res MSC.149(77))
Survival Craft VHF Radio Process
The Master is responsible for this process.

1. Ensure a minimum of 3 portable two-way radios (VHFs) are available

Warning!
Not to be used for vessel operational requirements. For emergency use only.

2. Conduct:

♦ Weekly

(i) Inspection and testing

Record in GMDSS log book

Note: Some models are not intrinsically safe and should only be tested in approved areas on
tankers.

♦ Monthly

(i) Discharge & fully recharge batteries

10.12 EPIRB & SARTS

EPIRB & SART Process
The Master is responsible for this process.

Note: If EPIRB accidentally activated, immediately notify:

- Nearest coastal state rescue co-ordination centre
- Management Office

1. Record expiry dates in ShipSure Certificates module

2. Inspect monthly, ensuring:

A. Correctly mounted

B. Batteries in date

C. Instructions clearly visible

D. Function test conducted in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions

3. Ensure annual testing conducted

4. Record checks and tests in GMDSS log book

5. If disposing of EPIRB:

A. Remove battery

B. Dispose of in accordance with local regulations

10.13 Emergency Life Support Apparatus (ELSA)

ELSA Process
The Master is responsible for this process.

1. Ensure ELSA sets are only worn in “Ready to Use” mode

2. Maintain in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions

3. Check monthly for:

A. Condition

B. Leaks

C. Bottle pressure
Note: Maintenance and testing of air cylinders is to be carried out as for other breathing
apparatus.

4. Rectify any defect immediately

10.14 Resuscitation Equipment

Resuscitation equipment is available in various forms ranging from a simple hand operated bellows
pump to sophisticated equipment that will give automatic resuscitation.

The media used for resuscitation is either oxygen or air.

Warning!
If oxygen is used, resuscitation equipment must not be taken into a potentially flammable
atmosphere unless it is approved for that purpose