Lifeboat Operations and Maintenance

www.marineinsight.
com
A Pocket Guide to
Lifeboat Opera4on and Maintenance
Publication date: March 2014
Published by: Marine Insight

www.marineinsight.com
Editor: Raunek Kantharia

Design: Anish Wankhede
© Copyright 2014 Marine Insight
NOTICE OF RIGHTS
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be rewritten, reproduced,
stored in a retrieval system, transmitted or distributed in any form or
means, without prior written permission of the publisher.
NOTICE OF LIABILITY
The authors and editors have made every effort possible to ensure the
accuracy of the information provided in the book. Neither the authors
and Marine Insight, nor editors or distributors, will be held liable for any
damages caused either directly or indirectly by the instructions
contained in this book, or the equipment, tools, or methods described
herein.
Index
ü Types of Lifeboats Used on Ships
ü Types of Lifeboat Release Mechanisms

& SOLAS Requirements for lifeboats
ü  Lifeboat Equipment
ü  Lifeboat Engine
ü  Measure to Stop Lifeboat Accidents
ü  Lifeboat Checks and Maintenance
ü  Tests on Lifeboat

A Pocket Guide to Lifeboat Opera4on and Maintenance
Types of Lifeboats Used On Ship

Lifeboat is one of the most important life-‐saving equipment used
onboard ships at the 7me of extreme emergencies, mainly for
abandoning a ship. Lifeboat is a small rigid (or inflatable) vessel,
secured onboard into davits so that it can be launched over the
side of the ship with least 7me and mechanical assistance possible
for an early escape of the ship’s crew.

A lifeboat must carry all important equipment and resources as
described under SOLAS and LSA codes, necessary for survival at the
sea during a disaster. This includes ra7ons, fresh water, first aid,
compass, distress signaling equipment such as rocket flares etc.

A ship must carry one rescue boat for the rescuing purpose, along
with other lifeboats. One of the lifeboats can be designated as a
rescue boat, if more than two or more lifeboats are present
onboard a ship.
1
Types of Lifeboats

There are three main types of lifeboats used on merchant vessels.

Open Lifeboat:

As the name suggests, the open lifeboat has no roof and is normally
propelled by manual power using hand propelled ores.
Compression igni7on engine may also be provided for the
propulsion purpose.

However, open lifeboats have
almost become obsolete
because of stringent safety
norms, but one may s7ll find
them on older ships. The open
lifeboat doesn’t help much in
rain or bad weather and the
possibility of water ingress in
the highest.

Closed Lifeboat:

Closed lifeboats are the
most popular lifeboats that
are used on merchant ships.
They are enclosed vessels
that can save the crew from
sea water, strong winds and
rough weather.

2
Moreover, the water 7ght integrity of such lifeboats is higher that
others and they can also become upright on their own if toppled
over by waves.

Closed lifeboats are further classified as – Par7ally enclosed and
Fully enclosed lifeboats.
Free Fall Lifeboat:

Free fall lifeboat is similar to an enclosed lifeboat but the process of
launching it is en7rely different. This type of lifeboats are
aerodynamic in nature which allows them to penetrate the water
without damaging the body at the 7me of launching from the ship.

The free fall lifeboat is located at the aL of the ship. This provides a
maximum clear area for free fall.
3
Types of Lifeboat Release Mechanisms & SOLAS

Requirements for Lifeboats

As men7oned earlier, there are different types of lifeboats used on
board ships on the basis of the type of the ship and other special
requirements. Not all lifeboats have the same type of releasing
mechanisms as the launching process depends on several other
factors. Let’s take a look at the main types of lifeboat releasing
mechanisms and also learn about the SOLAS requirements for
lifeboats.

Types of Lifeboat Releases: On load and Off Load Release

There are two types of lifeboat releasing mechanisms-‐ on load and
off load. These mechanisms release the boat from the davit, which
is aQached to a wire or fall by means of a hook. By releasing the
hook the lifeboat can be launched from the ship.

Off load mechanism:

The off load mechanism releases the boat aLer the load of the boat
is transferred to the water or the boat has been lowered fully into
the sea. When the boat touches the surface of water, the load on
the fall and the hook releases, and due to the mechanism the hook
detaches from the fall.

If the detachment does not takes place, any of the crew members
can remove the hook from the fall. Most of the 7mes the offload
mechanism is manually disengaged in case of malfunc7on;
however, in case of fire, it is dangerous to go out and release the
hook.
4
On load mechanism:

On load mechanism can release the lifeboat from the wire, with the
ship above the water level with all the crew members inside the
boat. The load will be s7ll on the fall as the boat would not have
touched the water.

Normally the height of
about 1m is kept for the on
load release, so that the fall
is smooth without
damaging the boat and
harming the crew inside.

A lever is provided inside
the boat to operate this
mechanism. As the lever is
operated from inside, it is
safe to free the boat
without geXng out of the
lifeboat. This is helpful
especially when there is a
fire on the ship.
Free fall release:

In free fall life boat, the launching mechanism is similar to on load
release. the only difference is that the free fall lifeboat is not
lowered 7ll 1m above water level, but is launched from the
stowed posi7on by opera7ng a lever (located inside the boat),
which releases the boat from rest of the davit and the boat slides
through the 7lted ramp into the water.
5
SOLAS and LSA code Requirements for lifeboat:

•  The size, number and the capacity of the lifeboat for a merchant
vessel is decided by the type of the ship and number of ship’s
crew, but it should not be less then 7.3 m in length and
minimum two lifeboats are provided on both sides of the ship
(port and starboard).
•  The requirement for lifeboat of a cargo ship with 20,000 GT is
that the boat must be capable of launching when the ship is
heading with a speed of 5 knots.
•  The lifeboat must carry all the equipment described under

SOLAS which can be used for survival at sea. This includes
ra7ons, fresh water, first aid, compass, distress signaling
equipment such as rocket etc.
•  The ship must carry one rescue boat for rescue purpose along
with other lifeboats. One lifeboat can be designated as a rescue
boat if more than one lifeboat is present onboard ship.
•  The gravity davits must hold and slide down the lifeboat even
when the ship is heeled to an angle of 15 degree on either side.
Ropes are used to hold the lifeboat in stowed posi7on with
cradle. These ropes are called gripes.
•  The wires which liL or lower the lifeboat are known as falls and
the speed of the lifeboat descent should not be more then 36m/
min. This is controlled by means of centrifugal brakes.
•  The hois7ng 7me for the boat launching appliance should not be
less than 0.3 m/sec with the boat loaded to its full capacity.
6

•  The lifeboat must be painted in interna7onal bright orange color
with the ship's call sign printed on it.
•  The lifeboat sta7on must be easily accessible for all the crew
members in all circumstances. Safety awareness posters and
launching procedures must be posted at lifeboat sta7on.
•  All lifeboats except free-‐fall lifeboats shall be provided with at
least one drain valve fiQed near the lowest point in the hull,
which shall automa7cally open to drain water from the hull
when the lifeboat is not waterborne and shall automa7cally
close to prevent entry of water when the lifeboat is waterborne.
•  Lifeboats which are not self-‐righ7ng when capsized shall have

suitable handholds on the underside of the hull to enable
persons to cling to the lifeboat.
•  All lifeboats shall be fiQed with sufficient water7ght lockers or
compartments to provide for the storage of the small items of
equipment, water and provisions.
•  A manually controlled lamp shall be fiQed. The light shall be
white and be capable of opera7ng con7nuously for at least 12
hours with a luminous intensity of not less than 4.3cd in all
direc7ons of the upper hemisphere.

•  No lifeboat shall be approved to accommodate more than 150
persons.
•  Sufficient number of spaces should provided on the sea7ng

arrangements. Ensure that footrests are fiQed and there is
7
sufficient room for legs and the ver7cal separa7on between

the upper and lower seat is not less than 350 mm.

•  Regular drills must be carried out to ensure that the ship’s crew
members are capable of launching the boat with minimal 7me
during real emergency.
The lifeboats present in the ship must be fiQed with a cer7ficate of
approval, endorsed by the administra7on, and containing at least
the following items:

•  manufacturer's name and address;
•  lifeboat model and serial number;
•  month and year of manufacture;
•  number of persons the lifeboat is approved to carry; and
•  the approval informa7on.
8
Lifeboat Equipment

Lifeboat equipment shall be secured in such a manner as not to
interfere with any abandonment procedures. All items of lifeboat
equipment shall be as small and of as liQle mass as possible and
shall be packed in a suitable and compact form.

Except where otherwise stated, the normal equipment of every
lifeboat shall consist of:

•  Except for free-‐fall lifeboats, sufficient buoyant oars to make
headway in calm seas. Thole pins, crutches or equivalent
arrangements shall be provided for each oar. Thole pins or
crutches shall be aQached to the boat by lanyards or chains
•  Two boat-‐hooks
•  A buoyant bailer and two buckets
•  A survival manual
•  An opera7onal compass which is luminous or provided with

suitable means of illumina7on. In a totally enclosed lifeboat, the
compass shall be permanently fiQed at the steering posi7on; in
any other lifeboat, it shall be provided with a binnacle if
necessary to protect it from the weather, and suitable moun7ng
arrangements
•  A sea-‐anchor of adequate size fiQed with a shock-‐resistant

hawser which provides a firm hand grip when wet

9
•  Two efficient painters of a length equal to not less than twice
the distance from the stowage posi7on of the lifeboat to the
waterline in the lightest seagoing condi7on or 15 m, whichever
is greater
•  Two hatchets, one at each end of the lifeboat
•  Water7ght receptacles containing a total of 3 of fresh water for

each person the lifeboat is permiQed to accommodate, of which
either 1 per person may be replaced by a desal7ng apparatus
capable of producing an equal amount of fresh water in 2 days,
or 2 per person may be replaced by a manually powered reverse
osmosis desalinator capable of producing an equal amount of
fresh water in 2 days
•  A rustproof dipper with lanyard
•  A rustproof graduated drinking vessel
•  Four rocket parachute flares complying with the requirements
•  Six hand flares complying with the requirements
•  Two buoyant smoke signals complying with the requirements
•  One waterproof electric torch suitable for Morse signaling

together with one spare set of baQeries and one spare bulb in a
waterproof container

•  One daylight signaling mirror with instruc7ons for its use for
signaling to ships and aircraL
10
•  One copy of the life-‐saving signals prescribed by regula7on V/16
on a waterproof card or in a waterproof container
•  One whistle or equivalent sound signal
•  A first-‐aid ouiit in a waterproof case capable of being closed

7ghtly aLer use
•  An7-‐seasickness medicine sufficient for at least 48 hours and

one seasickness bag for each person
•  A jack-‐knife to be kept aQached to the boat by a lanyard
•  Three 7n openers
•  Two buoyant rescue quoits, aQached to not less than 30 m of
buoyant line
•  If the lifeboat is not automa7cally self-‐bailing, a manual pump

suitable for effec7ve bailing
•  One set of fishing tackle
•  Sufficient tools for minor adjustments to the engine and its
accessories
•  Portable fire-‐ex7nguishing equipment of an approved type

suitable for ex7nguishing oil fires
•  A searchlight with a horizontal and ver7cal sector of at least 6°
and a measured luminous intensity of 2500 cd which can work
con7nuously for not less than 3 hours
11
•  An efficient radar reflector, unless a survival craL radar

transponder is stowed in the lifeboat
•  Thermal protec7ve aids complying with the requirements and

sufficient for 10% of the number of persons the lifeboat is
permiQed to accommodate or two, whichever is the greater
•  Water for the system shall be drawn from the sea by a self-‐
priming motor pump. It shall be possible to turn "on" and turn
"off" the flow of water over the exterior of the lifeboat
•  The seawater intake shall be so arranged as to prevent the
intake of flammable liquids from the sea surface
•  The system shall be arranged for flushing with fresh water and
allowing complete drainage
12
Lifeboat Engine

Seafarers are required to start the ship's lifeboat engine while
carrying out maintenance work or when lowering it in to the water
during a drill or an emergency. These engines require proper
maintenance at regular intervals of 7me, for it’s a known fact that
even the best maintained lifeboat engines run into snag, though
infrequently.

The reasons for such problem could be many, for example-‐ a bad
tank of fuel, improper or occasional maintenance, overhea7ng,
blockages, or even general wear and tear, eventually taking a toll
on the engines and causing them to fail when needed the most.

It is therefore impera7ve that a proper maintenance schedule is
followed on board by competent personnel to prevent such kind of
situa7ons on ships.

13
Common Symptoms For Lifeboat Engine Star4ng Failure on

Ships

The most general symptoms of outboard engine troubles can be
placed in the following categories:

1. The engine does not start.

2. The engine halts and runs unsteadily.

3. The lifeboat engine remains inac7ve for a long 7me.

4. The engine overheats strangely.

6. The engine races at unequal intervals when it is being tried out.

7. The lifeboat engine emits superfluous blue smoke.
Once it is found which of
these symptoms describes
the problems best, it is
always recommended to
check with or refer the
manufacturer’s manuals
for a step-‐by-‐step
troubleshoo7ng.

Of course, general
technical knowledge is
required to carry out the
job, in which, experience
and knowledge of the personnel plays an important role.
14
Reasons for Ship's Lifeboat Engine Star4ng

Failure

There could be several probable causes when lifeboat engine fails
to start. In such condi7ons, it is important to take into account the
lifeboat engines’ past history or maintenance record that was being
followed.

For developing a plan to troubleshoot the failure one needs to
know the problems which lifeboat engines are prone to. Some7mes
certain parameters are overlooked when regular maintenance is
being carried out on ships. Listed below are some reasons that
could be the cause of a lifeboat engine not responding:

1. Empty fuel tank.

2. Incorrectly aQached fuel supply hose.

3. Damaged fuel supply hose.

4. Defec7ve fuel pump.

5. Contaminated fuel.

6. Improper star7ng procedures.

7. Faulty, spoiled or incorrect posi7oning of spark plug(s).

8. Improper maintenance.

9. Emergency shut off de-‐ac7vated.

15
10. Undercharged starter baQery.

11. Loose electrical connec7ons.

12. Bad igni7on coil.

13. Defec7ve starter motor.

Basic checks that can be carried out locally on ship's lifeboat
engine

A few basic checks during rou7ne inspec7ons can be carried out at
site to pinpoint the defect and react quickly if something goes
wrong.

1.  Listen to the sound the lifeboat engine makes when it is tried
out – Check to see if it has the familiar running noise or it has
an abnormal one. A simple method to hear the noises is by
using equipment that is readily available such as a long handle
screwdriver. By puXng one end of the screwdriver to the ear
and the other where an abnormality is suspected, the error
detec7on is possible. Some7mes the machinery has to be
operated while listening to the sound; one must take adequate
precau7ons for the same.

2.  Visual checks – Check for rus7ng areas, oil leaks and kinks in the
fuel lines, cracks or bends in the lines associated with the ship's
lifeboat engine, chaffed hoses, paint discolora7on in heat areas,
distorted electrical cables or damaged junc7ons for cable and
housing etc. for an overall view of the deformi7es. Using eyes
for a beQer understanding of the troubles can prevent a
poten7al hazard awai7ng to happen.
16

3.Iden4fy the problem by smelling it -‐ Don’t underes7mate your
sense of smell as it can lead you to the source of the problems on
board ships. Fuel is dis7nguishable by its smell, so check for leaks
that could be dangerous and require immediate aQen7on.

Overcharging of the baQeries gives out a foul smell like that of an
egg gone bad. The smell of burnt electrical wiring and components
is quite unique too and could be figured out easily. Again, tracing
out the problem is of utmost importance.
4. Sense of touch– One can ascertain a few problems related to
electrical and ship's lifeboat engine components by simply touching
them. Loosely mounted starters and regulators, heated wires and
cables, damaged fuel lines and oil leaks, etc. to name a few could
all be corrected.

Using the senses to dish out problems is an art which has to be
prac7ced at every rou7ne inspec7on of the ship's lifeboat engine.
To be a good trouble-‐shooter one needs more than just technical
knowledge.
17
Lifeboat Engine Requirements

•  Every lifeboat engine shall be powered by compression-‐igni7on
engine.
•  The life engine should be such that it uses the fuel whose flash
point is more than 43 deg. C.
•  The engine to be provided with either manual or power star7ng
system or some7mes both.
•  When a power star7ng system is provided, it should have two
independent rechargeable energy sources.
•  The engine star7ng system and associated aid must be able to
start at an ambient temp of – 15 deg. C within 2 minutes.
•  The engine shall be capable of opera7ng for at least 5 min aLer
star7ng in the above men7oned cold start condi7on.
•  Engine should operate even when the lifeboat is flooded 7ll the
centerline of the engine crankshaL.
•  Propeller arrangement should be such that the propeller shaL

can be disconnected and a provision for ahead and astern
arrangement incorporated.
•  The exhaust manifold of the engine to be arranged such that no
water can enter the lifeboat engine.
•  The lifeboat and propulsion machinery installa7on shall be such

that it cannot be damaged by floa7ng debris in water.
18

•  The speed of a lifeboat when proceeding ahead in calm water,
when loaded with its full complement of persons and
equipment and with all engine powered auxiliary equipment in
opera7on, shall be at least 6 knots and at least 2 knots when
towing a 25-‐person life raL loaded with its full complement of
persons and equipment or its equivalent. Sufficient fuel, suitable
for use throughout the temperature range expected in the area
in which the ship operates, shall be provided to run the fully
loaded lifeboat at 6 knots for a period of not less than 24 hours.
•  The lifeboat engine, transmission and engine accessories shall

be enclosed in a fire-‐retardant casing or other suitable
arrangements providing similar protec7on. Such arrangements
shall also protect persons from coming into accidental contact
with hot or moving parts and protect the engine from exposure
to weather and sea.
•  Adequate means shall be provided to reduce the engine noise
so that a shouted order can be heard. Starter baQeries shall be
provided with casings which form a water7ght enclosure around
the boQom and sides of the baQeries. The baQery casings shall
have a 7ght fiXng top which provides for necessary gas ven7ng.
•  The lifeboat engine and accessories shall be designed to limit
electromagne7c emissions so that engine opera7on does not
interfere with the opera7on of radio life-‐saving appliances used
in the lifeboat.
•  Means shall be provided for recharging all engine star7ng, radio
and searchlight baQeries. Radio baQeries shall not be used to
provide power for engine star7ng.

19
Measures to Stop Accidents on Lifeboats

Lifeboats, though designed with the view to save lives at sea, are
not infallible. Of course, they do their job and they do it well, but
this is not to say that they cannot themselves be involved in an
accident.

is said that the vast majority of
It

accidents on lifeboats occur

during drills, perhaps because

people are less alert than they’d
normally be, for it’s not a “real”
situa7on.

People can become lax when

partaking in something that is

more or less a rou7ne

opera7on.

The fact that these accidents

more frequently take place

during prac7ces means that

fatali7es tend to be lower,

although they do s7ll occur,
taking the lives of trained
professionals.

Though
it is not possible to prevent all accidents on lifeboats; the
best
seafarers can do is to prepare themselves and know the main
cause
– forewarned is forearmed.

20
The Main Causes of Lifeboat Accidents

A study published by the Interna7onal Mari7me Organiza7on
(IMO) and the Mari7me Safety CommiQee stated that the following
categories cover the overwhelming majority of lifeboat accidents
that involved the injury or death of a crew person:

•  The failure of the on-‐load release mechanism
•  The accidental usage of the on-‐load release mechanism
•  The insufficient maintenance of lifeboats, launch equipment and

davits
•  Failures in communica7on
•  Lack of familiarity with lifeboats and the associated equipment
•  Unsafe prac7ces during lifeboat inspec7ons and drills
•  Other design faults

Though all the above causes of accidents on lifeboats can easily be
prevented, the ques7on that s7ll remains is – How?

How to Prevent Lifeboat Accidents?

Mari7me organiza7ons have come up with several methods
through which they can increase the safety of lifeboat opera7on
and cut down on the poten7al accidents because of lifeboats.

21
A safety circular has been made to bring the issues to aQen7on of
any and all relevant par7es, such as industry organiza7ons and ship
crew-‐members. Included in that circular are the following
instruc7ons:

•  Ensure that the on-‐load release mechanism is in compliance
with the various requirements of the LSA Code (specifically
paragraphs 4.4.7.6.2.2 – 4.4.7.6.5)
•  Make sure that all relevant informa7on regarding the

adjustment and maintenance of lifeboats and associated
equipment is available on board
•  All personnel carrying out inspec7ons and maintenance of the

lifeboat and associated equipment must be both fully trained in
and familiar with said du7es
•  The maintenance of lifeboats and associated equipment must

be carried out in adherence to the approved prac7ces
•  Health and safety requirements apply to drills as they do to
“real” procedures
•  Lifeboat drills must be conducted in accordance with the SOLAS
regula7on III/19.3.3
•  Any personnel carrying out maintenance or repair must be

qualified for the job
•  Hanging-‐off pennants should be used only for maintenance, not

during training

22
•  Lifeboat inspec7on must be regular and thorough
•  All equipment must be durable in rough condi7ons and easily
accessible
•  All tests for safety and life-‐saving equipment must be conducted
rigorously to guidelines, newly created by the Interna7onal
Mari7me Organiza7on.
Taking Necessary Steps

For the most part, accidents on lifeboats can be prevented simply
by exercising some cau7on and common sense.

Make sure that everything on
your lifeboats – both fixed and
loose – is func7oning as it
should, and give the boat an
inspec7on to ensure that the
power supply, the engine, the
steering, the release system
and the bailing mechanism are
all working correctly.

Keep crew down to a sensible level to avoid over-‐crowding, and
regularly check over the davits.

If you see any corrosion or defama7on, repair them at the earliest
and ensure they’re well-‐lubricated.
23
Lifeboat Checks and Maintenance

Frequent checks and maintenance of the lifeboat is required at
regular intervals of 7me.

The following items should be examined and checked for
sa7sfactory condi7on and opera7on:

•  Condi7on of lifeboat structure including fixed and loose
equipment
•  Engine and propulsion system
•  Sprinkler system, where fiQed
•  Air supply system, where fiQed
•  Maneuvering system
•  Power supply system
•  Bailing system

Release gear

If the release system malfunc7ons during the 7me of abandoning
ship, the whole crew will be stuck in the lifeboat which is s7ll
aQached to the ship. It is thus important to regularly check the
release gear of the lifeboat. The seXng and maintenance of the
release gear are cri7cal opera7ons with regards to maintaining the
safe opera7on of the lifeboat and the safety of personnel.
24
All inspec7on and maintenance opera7ons on the release gear

should therefore be carried out with utmost care. No maintenance
or adjustment of the release gear should be undertaken while the
hooks are under load.

Hanging-‐off pennants might be used for this purpose but they
should not remain connected at other 7mes, such as when the
lifeboat is normally stowed and during training exercises.

The following should be examined for sa7sfactory condi7on and
opera7on:

•  Opera7on of devices for ac7va7on of release gear
•  Excessive free play (tolerances)
•  Hydrosta7c interlock system, where fiQed
•  Cables for control and release

•  Hook fastening
Prior to hois7ng, check that

the release gear is
completely and properly
reset.

The final turning-‐in of the
lifeboat should be done
without any person on
board.
25
Davit
A lifeboat davit is responsible for securing and lowering the lifeboat
un7l it is waterborne. It comprises of many parts such as davit
arms, wire and falls, pulley etc. Maintenance of all these davit
components is an important job onboard.
The following items should

be examined for
sa7sfactory condi7on and
opera7on of davits:
•  Davit structure, in

par7cular with regards
to corrosion,
misalignments,
deforma7ons and
excessive free play
•  Wires and sheaves,

possible damages such
as kinks and corrosion

•  Lubrica7on of wires, sheaves and moving
parts
•  Func7oning of limit switches
•  Stored power systems

•  Hydraulic systems
26
Winch

The brake winch holds the lifeboat davit during launching and same
is used to move up and secure the lifeboat. The following should be
examined for sa7sfactory condi7on and opera7on:

•  Open and inspect brake mechanism
•  Replace brake pads, if necessary
•  Remote control system
•  Power supply system

On-‐Load Release Gear

Inspec7on of on-‐load release gear includes:

•  Dismantling of hook release units and examina7on with regard
to tolerances and design requirements
•  Adjustment of release gear system aLer assembly to be done
•  Opera7onal test as per above and with a load according to
SOLAS regula7on III/20.11.2.3; and examina7on of vital parts
with regards to defects and cracks
•  Non-‐destruc7ve examina7on (NDE) techniques, such as dye

penetrants (DPE), may be suitable for crack detec7on
27
Tests on Lifeboat

Dynamic winch brake test

Annual opera7onal tes7ng of lifeboat should preferably be done by
lowering the empty lifeboat. When the boat has reached its
maximum lowering speed and when it enters the water, the brake
should be abruptly applied.

Five-‐yearly opera7onal tes7ng should be done by lowering the boat
loaded to a proof load of 1.1 7mes the maximum working load of
the winch, or equivalent load. When the boat has reached its
maximum lowering speed and before the boat enters the water,
the brake should be abruptly applied.

Following these tests, the brake pads and stressed structural parts
should be re-‐inspected. In loading the boat for this test,
precau7ons should be taken to ensure that the stability of the boat
is not adversely affected by free surface effects or raising of the
center of gravity.

Sta4c test:

In this test, the lifeboat is raised
50 to 100 mm above the lifeboat
rests with boat loaded to 150%
of its maximum capacity. The
brake is applied at this point
with harbor pins in posi7on. The
lifeboat should not move once
the brake is applied for required
period of 7me. 28
Test of off-‐load release func4on:

•  Posi7on the lifeboat fully waterborne
•  Operate the off-‐load release gear
•  Reset the on-‐load release gear
•  Recover the lifeboat to the stowed posi7on and prepare for
opera7onal readiness
•  Prior to hois7ng, check that the release gear is completely and
properly reset. The final turning-‐in of the lifeboat should be
done without any person on board

Test of on-‐load release
func4on:

•  Posi7on the life boat par7ally
into the water such that the
mass of the boat is
substan7ally supported by the
falls and the hydrosta7c
interlock system, where fiQed,
is not triggered
•  Operate the on-‐load release

mechanism
•  Reset the on-‐load release

mechanism
29
Launching Procedure of Davit Released Boat:

•  Inspect the general condi7on of winch drum, falls, pulleys,
remote release wires, davit stands and on-‐load release system
before launching the lifeboat
•  Secure the boQom plugs from inside of the lifeboat
•  Check propeller is clear-‐off any ropes
•  Check fuel tank lever and lube oil level in the engine
•  Open sea water inlet to the engine
•  Open fuel tank valve to the engine and test the engine before
lowering
•  Sea water valve to sprinkler system to be opened
•  Secure forward painter to a strong point in ship
•  Release safety or harbor pin
•  Release addi7on lashing to the lifeboat
•  Disconnect the baQery charging cables from the lifeboat
•  Release davit arm stopper
•  Lower the embarka7on ladder
30
•  Lower the lifeboat by releasing the hand brake manually, the
lifeboat will come down due to gravity pull
•  Lower the lifeboat 7ll embarka7on deck and then apply brake
•  ALer crew boarding the lifeboat, lower the lifeboat 7ll it is water
borne
•  For on-‐load release system, lifeboat to be lowered up to 1m
above water level
•  Operate the lifeboat release system (offload or on-‐load)
•  Start the engine and maneuver the boat away from ship
31
Free Fall Lifeboat Launching Procedure

Free fall lifeboats are fiQed on many new ships and are
recommended on bulk carriers by SOLAS Regula7on III/31.1.2 and
paragraph 6.1.3 of the Life Saving Appliances (LSA) Code.
Regula7ons also require that these craLs are launched once every
six months, as opposed to every three months for conven7onal
davit-‐launched lifeboats.

There is no standard
procedure for launching
free-‐fall lifeboats, as design
and fiXngs vary
considerably. However, in
order to inform seafarers
on good prac7ce, the
following broad guidelines
are given:

Before Launching

•  Before the drill, carry out a risk assessment, iden7fy hazards,
take appropriate measures to eliminate or control them and
record the same
•  Brief all crew, including those who are assigned du7es other
than lifeboat crew, or are going to be observers, on the design
features and the proper opera7on of all devices and controls
•  Confirm lifeboat and launching/recovery crews fully understand

correct procedures and con7ngency plans
32
•  Obtain permission from harbor authori7es, PFSO, as appropriate
•  Release securing devices
•  Disconnect baQery charger
•  Secure ven7la7on hatch water7ght
•  Switch electrical system to baQery power
•  Check off the crew on the muster list while they board the craL
in the assigned order

Once crew are in the lifeboat

•  Secure door water7ght
•  Ensure all crew members are seated with body and head
restraints securely fastened. Confirm this verbally to coxswain
during final headcount check
•  Follow manufacturer’s instruc7ons as to when to start engine

and if the gear should be engaged or not at 7me of launch
•  Ensure rudder is amidships
•  The person in-‐charge to give verbal warning that launch is about
to take place immediately before opera7ng the release control
•  The in-‐charge launches the lifeboat. If the main release device
fails to launch the lifeboat, the assigned crew member operates
the emergency lifeboat release lever
33
Lifeboats are mandatory on board all types of ships. The
International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS)
establishes regulations for minimum requirements of lifeboat
construction, operation and maintenance procedures.
On 1 January 2013, Amendments to the International Convention

for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) aimed at preventing
accidents during lifeboat launching entered into force. This
SOLAS amendment is intended to establish new, stricter, safety
standards for lifeboat release and retrieval systems, and will
require the assessment and possible replacement of a large
number of lifeboat release hooks.
Lifeboat maintenance procedures and drills are also an integral

part of ship routine operations. Seafarers must take all necessary
precautions in order to ensure safety and smooth operation of
lifeboats during emergencies.
If you have any doubts or comments about any topic mentioned in

this book, please feel free to contact us at
info@marineinsight.com

Lifeboat Operations and Maintenance

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Lifeboat Operations and Maintenance

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Published by: Marine Insight

Editor: Raunek Kantharia

ü Types of Lifeboats Used on Ships

ü Types of Lifeboat Release Mechanisms

ü Lifeboat Equipment

ü Lifeboat Engine

ü Measure to Stop Lifeboat Accidents

ü Lifeboat Checks and Maintenance

ü Tests on Lifeboat

Types of Lifeboats Used On Ship

Types of Lifeboats

Types of Lifeboat Release Mechanisms & SOLAS

Free fall release:

SOLAS and LSA code Requirements for lifeboat:

• The lifeboat must carry all the equipment described under

• Lifeboats which are not self-­‐righ7ng when capsized shall have

• Suﬃcient number of spaces should provided on the sea7ng

suﬃcient room for legs and the ver7cal separa7on between

• lifeboat model and serial number;

• month and year of manufacture;

• the approval informa7on.

• A buoyant bailer and two buckets

• An opera7onal compass which is luminous or provided with

• A sea-­‐anchor of adequate size ﬁQed with a shock-­‐resistant

• Two hatchets, one at each end of the lifeboat

• Water7ght receptacles containing a total of 3 of fresh water for

• A rustproof dipper with lanyard

• A rustproof graduated drinking vessel

• Four rocket parachute ﬂares complying with the requirements

• Six hand ﬂares complying with the requirements

• Two buoyant smoke signals complying with the requirements

• One waterproof electric torch suitable for Morse signaling

• One whistle or equivalent sound signal

• A ﬁrst-­‐aid ouiit in a waterproof case capable of being closed

• An7-­‐seasickness medicine suﬃcient for at least 48 hours and

• Three 7n openers

• If the lifeboat is not automa7cally self-­‐bailing, a manual pump

• One set of ﬁshing tackle

• Portable ﬁre-­‐ex7nguishing equipment of an approved type

• An eﬃcient radar reﬂector, unless a survival craL radar

• Thermal protec7ve aids complying with the requirements and

Common Symptoms For Lifeboat Engine Star4ng Failure on

Reasons for Ship's Lifeboat Engine Star4ng

10. Undercharged starter baQery.

Lifeboat Engine Requirements

• Propeller arrangement should be such that the propeller shaL

• The lifeboat and propulsion machinery installa7on shall be such

• The lifeboat engine, transmission and engine accessories shall

Measures to Stop Accidents on Lifeboats

The Main Causes of Lifeboat Accidents

• The accidental usage of the on-­‐load release mechanism

• The insuﬃcient maintenance of lifeboats, launch equipment and

• Failures in communica7on

• Lack of familiarity with lifeboats and the associated equipment

• Unsafe prac7ces during lifeboat inspec7ons and drills

• Other design faults

• Make sure that all relevant informa7on regarding the

• All personnel carrying out inspec7ons and maintenance of the

• The maintenance of lifeboats and associated equipment must

• Any personnel carrying out maintenance or repair must be

• Hanging-­‐oﬀ pennants should be used only for maintenance, not

• Lifeboat inspec7on must be regular and thorough

ü Types of Lifeboats Used on Ships

ü Types of Lifeboat Release Mechanisms

ü  Lifeboat Equipment

ü  Lifeboat Engine

ü  Measure to Stop Lifeboat Accidents

ü  Lifeboat Checks and Maintenance

ü  Tests on Lifeboat

•  The lifeboat must carry all the equipment described under

•  Lifeboats which are not self-‐righ7ng when capsized shall have

•  Suﬃcient number of spaces should provided on the sea7ng

•  lifeboat model and serial number;

•  month and year of manufacture;

•  the approval informa7on.

•  A buoyant bailer and two buckets

•  An opera7onal compass which is luminous or provided with

•  A sea-‐anchor of adequate size ﬁQed with a shock-‐resistant

•  Two hatchets, one at each end of the lifeboat

•  Water7ght receptacles containing a total of 3 of fresh water for

•  A rustproof dipper with lanyard

•  A rustproof graduated drinking vessel

•  Four rocket parachute ﬂares complying with the requirements

•  Six hand ﬂares complying with the requirements

•  Two buoyant smoke signals complying with the requirements

•  One waterproof electric torch suitable for Morse signaling

•  One whistle or equivalent sound signal

•  A ﬁrst-‐aid ouiit in a waterproof case capable of being closed

•  An7-‐seasickness medicine suﬃcient for at least 48 hours and

•  Three 7n openers

•  If the lifeboat is not automa7cally self-‐bailing, a manual pump

•  One set of ﬁshing tackle

•  Portable ﬁre-‐ex7nguishing equipment of an approved type

•  An eﬃcient radar reﬂector, unless a survival craL radar

•  Thermal protec7ve aids complying with the requirements and

•  Propeller arrangement should be such that the propeller shaL

•  The lifeboat and propulsion machinery installa7on shall be such

•  The lifeboat engine, transmission and engine accessories shall

•  The accidental usage of the on-‐load release mechanism

•  The insuﬃcient maintenance of lifeboats, launch equipment and

•  Failures in communica7on

•  Lack of familiarity with lifeboats and the associated equipment

•  Unsafe prac7ces during lifeboat inspec7ons and drills

•  Other design faults

•  Make sure that all relevant informa7on regarding the

•  All personnel carrying out inspec7ons and maintenance of the

•  The maintenance of lifeboats and associated equipment must

•  Any personnel carrying out maintenance or repair must be

•  Hanging-‐oﬀ pennants should be used only for maintenance, not

•  Lifeboat inspec7on must be regular and thorough

•  Engine and propulsion system

•  Sprinkler system, where ﬁQed

•  Air supply system, where ﬁQed

•  Power supply system

•  Excessive free play (tolerances)

•  Hydrosta7c interlock system, where ﬁQed

•  Cables for control and release

•  Davit structure, in

•  Wires and sheaves,

•  Func7oning of limit switches

•  Stored power systems

•  Replace brake pads, if necessary

•  Remote control system

•  Power supply system

•  Non-‐destruc7ve examina7on (NDE) techniques, such as dye

Test of oﬀ-‐load release func4on:

•  Operate the oﬀ-‐load release gear

•  Reset the on-‐load release gear

•  Operate the on-‐load release

•  Reset the on-‐load release

•  Secure the boQom plugs from inside of the lifeboat

•  Check propeller is clear-‐oﬀ any ropes

•  Open sea water inlet to the engine

•  Sea water valve to sprinkler system to be opened

•  Secure forward painter to a strong point in ship

•  Release safety or harbor pin

•  Release addi7on lashing to the lifeboat

•  Disconnect the baQery charging cables from the lifeboat

•  Release davit arm stopper

•  Lower the embarka7on ladder

•  Operate the lifeboat release system (oﬄoad or on-‐load)

•  Conﬁrm lifeboat and launching/recovery crews fully understand