Life-Saving Equipment
- There must be enough of the correct types of life rafts, lifejackets, flares and other required emergency equipment provided onboard – at least to the legal requirements applicable.
- This equipment should be correctly located on the vessel for ease of use in emergency situations.
- All life-saving equipment should be kept in good condition and regularly checked. Record the results of these inspections in a suitable register. Replace damaged or discharged equipment as soon as possible.
- The location of all life-saving equipment should be quickly and easily identifiable in an emergency. A conspicuous location marker should be positioned as high up as possible above all equipment to clearly indicate location.
- To ensure that life-saving equipment is always readily accessible – a “keep clear" area should be demarcated or maintained beneath the equipment.
- Life jackets are to be used when working on deck!
Life Rafts
- The raft must be stowed in a cradle or bed in a location where it is easily accessible.
- It must be capable of floating free if the vessel sinks suddenly.
- The raft should be secured by means of a hydrostatic release tightened to its proper tension.
- It should be ensured that the painter is securely attached to a strong point on the vessel.
- Check that there is a ‘weak link’ incorporated into the line.
- The deck space where the raft is stowed needs to be kept clear of obstructions and well lit.
- No extra lashing is to be used to secure the raft.
- Check the operation of the senhouse slip on a regular basis.
- Rafts are to be serviced annually.
- All crew are to be instructed in the use of this piece of equipment.
