In the decades since it became a requirement that lifesaving appliances are available for everyone on board a vessel, many design features of lifeboats and their launching systems have changed. These have usually been in response to the demands for larger lifeboat capacity, greater protection for those using them, ease of operation and enhanced safety.
Force for major change has usually come from recommendations following high profile accidents where there has been heavy loss of passenger life, most notably the Titanic in 1912. Although lifeboats have been used on many occasions since then and, most noticeably, in two world wars, there have been very few changes to lifeboat design and equipment even though many professional seafarers have lost their lives while using
them.
Lifeboat Engine Regulations As per SOLAS
01. Life Boat must be powered by IC engine.
02. Engine must be manual or battery started (independent rechargeable).
03. Engine shall be operated more than 5 min with L/B out of water.
04. Engine shall be operating when the L/B is flooded up to centre line of crank shaft.
05. Fuel used flush point not more than 43° C.
06. Exhaust pipe must be arranged to prevent entering water during engine operation.
07. Propeller shaft shall be arranged to operate ahead & astern propulsion.
08. Speed 6 Knots/h for not less than 24 hrs in calm water & Ahead direction with full capacity of person and equipments.
(If the L/B is carrying 25% load and pulling a life raft then speed at least 2 knots/h).
09. Engine shall be enclosed in a fire proof casing.
10. Water proof instruction shall be posted in L/B near the engine.
11. Must be provided charging system for radio and charge lights.
Maintenance Required in Lifeboats
The presence of lifeboats on board can make all the difference when it comes to quick evacuations at sea in case of emergencies. Hence, they need to be functioning perfectly at all times.
Here are some tips for seafarers and engineers on how to assure proper lifeboat maintenance at all times.
1.To avoid rupture and damage, lifeboat maintenance must be done every 3 months by the ship staff to check and repair damages.
2.The lifeboat hull must be checked regularly for any cracks and drills.
3.The air support system in lifeboats should be checked. The pressure of air bottles must be verified so as to avoid the passage of toxic gases in it.
4.The sprinkler system installed in lifeboats should be checked regularly to see if the valve functions properly and is not frozen or damaged.
5.The engine of a lifeboat must be tested at least for 3 minutes every week.
6.The lifeboat battery which provides lighting to the lifeboat and helps start the engine should be renewed every 2-3 years.
Must Read:Lifeboat Safety Equipment.