SIMULATED LAUNCHING OF FREE-FALL LIFEBOATS | NEW REGULATION DUE TO MSC.325(90)

Amendment to the free-fall lifeboats to SOLAS

The IMO recently adopted an amendment to the free-fall lifeboats to the rule III/20.11.2.4 . by resolution MSC.325 (90 ), which allows the simulated launching rather than normal freefall launch during testing.

For regular maintenance of delivery systems of free fall lifeboats are required to lifeboats must be tested regularly to make sure they work when needed and know how to operate the equipment. For testing the free-fall lifeboats, launching a physical may not always be the case, for example, due to the docking position or obstacles behind the ship. 

The amendment will enter into force on January 1, 2014, allows to check the functionality of the free-fall lifeboats to be carried either by the launch of the free fall, or by a simulated launch under Appendix in MSC.1/Circ.1206 / Rev.1, which states clearly what steps must be performed.

Testing the free-fall lifeboats

Hatecke has developed a device that establishes a firm connection between the stern of the lifeboat and davit system (or ramp) and allowing a safe procedure simulated launching crew and equipment.
Almost all boats and ramps Hatecke existing freefall can be modified with the system.

The advantage of this device is simulated launching that there is no slack and therefore no dynamic forces into the system, so it is even safer than before.