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The Merchant Shipping (Life-Saving Appliances for Passenger Ships of Classes III to VI (A)) Regulations 1992

Type Statutory-Instrument

Publication 1992-10-01

State In force

Department Queen's Printer of Acts of Parliament

Source legislation.gov.uk

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Reform history JSON API

All items of lifeboat equipment, whether required by this paragraph or elsewhere in this Schedule, with the exception of boat-hooks which shall be kept available for fending off purposes, shall be secured within the lifeboat by lashings, storage in lockers or compartments, storage in brackets or similar mounting arrangements or other suitable means. The 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 little 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:

(7.1.1) sufficient buoyant oars to make headway in calm seas; thole pins, crutches or equivalent arrangements shall be provided for each oar provided; thole pins or crutches shall be attached to the boat by lanyards or chains;

(7.1.2) two boat-hooks;

(7.1.3) a buoyant bailer and two buckets;

(7.1.4) a sea-anchor complying with the requirements of Part I of Schedule 7;

(7.1.5) two efficient painters of length equal to not less than twice the distance from the stowage position of the lifeboat to the waterline in the lightest seagoing condition or 15 metres whichever is the greater; one painter attached to the release device required by paragraph 5.7 shall be placed at the forward end of the lifeboat and the other shall be stored at or near the bow of the lifeboat ready for use;

(7.1.6) two hatches, one at each end of the lifeboat;

(7.1.7) watertight receptacles complying with the requirements of Part III of Schedule 7 containing a total of 3 litres of fresh water for each person the lifeboat is permitted to accommodate;

(7.1.8) three rustproof graduated drinking vessels, one suitably graduated in millilitres;

(7.1.9) six hand flares;

(7.1.10) one waterproof electric torch suitable for Morse signalling together with one spare set of batteries and one spare bulb in a waterproof container;

(7.1.11) one whistle or equivalent sound signal;

(7.1.12) a first-aid outfit complying with the requirments of Part II of Schedule 7;

(7.1.13) six doses of anti-seasickness medicine and one seasickness bag for each person;

(7.1.14) a jack-knife to be kept attached to the boat by a lanyard;

(7.1.15) three tin openers;

(7.1.16) two buoyant rescure quoits, attached to not less than 30 metres of buoyant line;

(7.1.17) a manual pump complying with the requirements of Part IV of Schedule 1;

(7.1.18) sufficient tools for minor adjustments to the engine and its accessories;

(7.1.19) two portable fire-extinguishers suitable for extinguishing oil fires; and

(7.1.20) in the case of ships engaged on voyages of class V the equipment specified in paragraphs 7.1.4, 7.1.7 to 7.1.10 inclusive and 7.1.12 to 7.1.17 inclusive need not be carried.

Instructions and Information

8

8.1

Instructions and information required for inclusion in the training manual specified in Part I of Schedule 11 and in the instructions for on-board maintenance specified in Part II of Schedule 11 shall be in the form suitable for inclusion in such training manual and instructions for on-board maintenance. Instructions and information shall be in English in a clear and concise form and shall include the following:

(8.1.1) general description of the lifeboat and its equipment;

(8.1.2) installation arrangements,

(8.1.3) operational instructions including use of associated survival equipment;

(8.1.4) surival instructions;

(8.1.5) emergency repair instructions;

(8.1.6) deployment, boarding and launching instructions;

(8.1.7) method of launching from within the boat;

(8.1.8) release from launching appliance;

(8.1.9) on board maintenance requirements;

(8.1.10) servicing requirements;

(8.1.11) use of engine and accessories; and

(8.1.12) recovery of boat including stowage and securing.

PART II — PARTIALLY ENCLOSED LIFEBOATS

1

All partially enclosed lifeboats shall comply with the requirments of Part I of this Schedule, and in addition shall comply with the requirements of this Part as follows:

2

Every partially enclosed lifeboat shall be provided with effective means of bailing or be automatically self-bailing.

Enclosure

3

3.1

Permanently attached rigid covers shall be provided extending over not less than 20% of the length of the lifeboat from the stem and not less than 20% of the length of the lifeboat from the aftermost part of the lifeboat.

3.2

The rigid covers shall form two shelters. The interior height of the shelters shall be sufficient to permit persons easy access to their seats in the bow and stern of the lifeboat.

3.3

The rigid covers shall be so arranged that they include windows or translucent panels to admit sufficient daylight to the inside of the lifeboat with the openings or canopies closed so as to make artificial light unnecessary.

3.4

The rigid covers shall have railings to provide a secure handhold for persons moving about the exterior of the lifeboat.

3.5

Open parts of the lifeboat shall be fitted with a permanently attached foldable canopy so arranged that:

(3.5.1) it can be easily erected by not more than two persons;

(3.5.2) it is insulated to protect the occupants against cold by means of not less than two layers of material separated by an air gap or other equally efficient means; means shall be provided to prevent accumulation of water in the air gap.

3.6

The enclosure formed by the rigid covers and canopy shall be so arranged:

(3.6.1) as to allow launching and recovery operations to be performed without any occupant having to leave the enclosure;

(3.6.2) that it has entrances at both ends and on each side, provided with efficient adjusting closing arrangements which can easily and quickly opened and closed from inside or outside so as to permit ventilation but exclude seawater, wind and cold; means shall be provided for holding the entrances securely in the open and in the closed position;

(3.6.3) that with the canopy erected and all entrances closed, sufficient air is addmitted for the occupants at all times;

(3.6.4) that it has means for collecting rainwater;

(3.6.5) that the exterior of the rigid covers and canopy and the interior of the part of the lifeboat covered by the canopy is of a highly visible colour. The interior of the shelters shall be of a colour which does not cause discomfort to the occupants;

(3.6.6) that it is possible to row the lifeboat.

PART III — LIFEBOAT DISENGAGING GEARS

1

Except in the case of a single point suspension the lifeboat disenging gear shall be so arranged that all hooks are released simultaneously on the operation of the control mechanism.

2

The means of effecting release shall be placed near the coxswain’s position.

3

The gear shall have two release capabilities:

3.1

a normal release capability which will release the lifeboat only when it is waterborne or when there is no load on the hook(s);

3.2

an on-load release capability which will release the lifeboat with a load on the hook(s). This release shall be so arranged as to release the lifeboat under any condition of loading from no-load with the lifeboat waterborne to a load of 1.1 times the total mass of the lifeboat when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment. This release shall be adequately protected against accidental or premature use.

4

The means of connection between the hook(s), safety device and the operating lever or release unit shall:

4.1

be arranged and led so as to ensure the efficient operation of the gear,

4.2

wherever necessary be properly cased in for the safety or efficient action of the gear or for the protection of persons from injury; and

4.3

where cased in, means shall be provided for lubricating this equipment.

5

The release control(s) are to be clearly marked in colour that contrasts with its surroundings, and a suitably worded instruction plate indicating the method of safe operation of the gear shall be provided.

6

Such parts of the gear as would otherwise be likely to be set fast by rust or corrosion shall be made of non-corrodible metal.

7

The mechanism shall be designed with a factor of safety of 6 based on the ultimate strength of the materials used, assessing that the mass of the lifeboat is equally distributed.

PART IV — MANUAL PUMPS

1

Every lifeboat manual pump shall comply with the following requirements:

1.1

the capacity when operated at not more than 60 double strokes per minute at 1.2 metres suction head, shall be not less than:

(1.1.1) 30 litres per minutes in lifeboats of 7 metres in length or over; or

(1.1.2) 20 litres per minute in lifeboats of less than 7 metres length;

1.2

in its normal dry state (excluding internal grease or other assistance) the pump shall be readily self-priming when operated at a suction head of not less than 1.2 metres;

1.3

all parts of the pump shall be of material unaffected by the effects of sea water;

1.4

the interior of the pump, including valves, shall be readily accessible for emergency cleaning and the cover for access shall be capable of being easily removed without the use of a spanner or other special tool; and

1.5

the pump branches shall be suitable for use with rubber hose connections of at least 30 mm bore. The metal part of the operating handle shall be suitably sheathed by material other than wood to ensure that the hands of the operator are protected when the pump is used in extreme cold. The spindle gland shall be of the spring loaded seal ring type.

PART V — LIFEBOAT LIGHTS

1

General

1.1

Internal and External Lights

(1.1.1) The lights shall be provided with a manually operated switch.

(1.1.2) Each light shall be connected independently to its own power source unless it is operated from the lifeboat’s battery system.

Construction

2

Internal and External Lights

(2.1.1) The complete light unit shall be constructed with proper workmanship and materials.

(2.1.2) It shall be capable of withstanding the drop test for a lifeboat.

(2.1.3) It shall be capable of withstanding a drop of 2 metres onto a rigidly mounted steel plate or concrete surface.

(2.1.4) it shall be rot proof, corrosion resistant, and not be unduly affected by sea-water, oil or fungal growth.

(2.1.5) It shall not deteriorate due to damp or humidity when stowed in or on a lifeboat.

(2.1.6) The power source shall be proofed against leakage of any chemicals which could damage or cause deterioration of the lifeboat.

(2.1.7) The connection between light and power shall be suitably protected.

(2.1.8) The lamp, lamp holder and lens shall be so constructed to prevent the ingress of water.

(2.1.9) .If the external light is a flashing light, it shall not be fitted with a lens or curved reflector to concentrate the beam.

Performance

3

3.1

Internal and External Lights

(3.1.1) The lights shall have an operational endurance of not less than 12 hours.

(3.1.2) They shall not be damaged in stowage throughout the air temperature range −30°C to +65°C.

(3.1.3) They shall operate in a satisfactory manner throughout a seawater temperature of −1°C to +30°C.

3.2

Internal Light

(3.2.1) The light shall be of sufficient luminous intensity to enable survival and equipment instructions to be read.

3.3

External Light

(3.3.1) The light shall be visible on a dark night with a clear atmosphere at a distance of at least 2 miles.

(3.3.2) It shall be visible through 360 degrees in a horizontal direction and over as great a segment of the upper hemisphere as is practical when attached to a lifeboat.

(3.3.3) In the case of a flashing light it shall flash at a rate of not less than 50 flashes per minute for the first 2 hours of operation.

Markings

4

Internal and External Lights

4.1

The power source if independent of the lifeboat’s battery system shall be marked externally with:

(4.1.1) the manufacturer’s name or trade mark;

(4.1.2) the type and batch number;

(4.1.3) date of manufacture and expiry;

(4.1.4) the words “DOT (UK) APPROVED”.

4.2

If the power source is a chemical pressurised cell it shall be clearly marked with a suitable warning notice.

SCHEDULE 2 — RESCUE BOATS

PART I — RIGID RESCUE BOATS

General

1

1.1

A rigid rescue boat may be accepted as a lifeboat provided it also complies with the relevant requirements of Schedule 1.

1.2

All rigid rescue boats prescribed in this Part shall:

(1.2.1) be constructed with proper workmanship and materials;

(1.2.2) not be damaged in stowage throughout the air temperature range −30°C to +65°C;

(1.2.3) be capable of operating throughout the seawater temperature range −1°C to +30°C;

(1.2.4) be rot-proof, corrosion-resistant, and not be unduly affected by seawater, oil or fungal attack;

(1.2.5) be resistant to deterioration from exposure to sunlight;

(1.2.6) be of highly visible colour on all parts where this will assist detection;

(1.2.7) be fitted with retro-reflective material where this will assist in detection and the dimensions and location of the material shall be to the satisfaction of the Secretary of State;

(1.2.8) be capable of satisfactory operation in a sea environment.

Construction

2

2.1

All boats shall be properly constructed and shall be of such form and proportions that they have ample stability in a seaway and sufficient freeboard when loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment. All boats shall have rigid hulls and shall be capable of maintaining positive stability when in an upright position in calm water and loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment and holed in any one location below the waterline, assuming no loss of buoyancy material and no other damage.

2.2

All boats shall be of sufficient strength to:

(2.2.1) enable them to be safely lowered into the water when loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment; and

(2.2.2) be capable of being launched and towed when the ship is making headway at a speed of 5 knots in calm water.

2.3

Seating shall be provided on thwarts, benches or fixed chairs fitted as low as practicable in the boat and constructed so as to be capable of supporting the number of persons each weighing 100 kg for which spaces are provided in compliance with the requirements of paragraph 2.5.2.

2.4

Each boat shall be of sufficient strength to withstand, when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment and with, where applicable, skates or fenders in position, a lateral impact against the ship’s side at an impact velocity of at least 3.5 metres per second and also a drop into the water from a height of at least 3 metres.

2.5

The number of persons which a boat shall be permitted to accommodate shall be equal to the lesser of:

(2.5.1) the number of persons having an average mass of 75 kg, all wearing lifejackets, that can be seated in a normal position plus one person lying down without interfering with the means of propulsion or the operation of any of the boat’s equipment; or

(2.5.2) the number of spaces that can be provided on the seating arrangements in accordance with Figure 2, plus one person lying down.

2.6

Each seating position shall be clearly indicated in the boat.

2.7

All boats shall have a boarding ladder that can be used on either side of the boat to enable persons in the water to board the boat. The lowest step of the ladder shall be weighted if of buoyant material and shall float at a level not less than 0.4 metres below the boat’s light waterline.

2.8

The boat shall be so arranged that helpless people can be brought on board either from the sea or on stretchers.

2.9

All surfaces on which persons might walk shall have a non-skid finish.

2.10

All boats shall have inherent buoyancy or shall be fitted with inherently buoyant material which shall not be adversely affected by seawater, oil or oil products. Such buoyancy shall be sufficient to float the boat with all its equipment on board when flooded and open to the sea. Additional inherently buoyant material, equal to 280 Newtons of buoyant force per person shall be provided for the number of persons the boat is permitted to accommodate. Buoyant material, unless in addition to that required above, shall not be installed external to the hull of the boat.

2.11

Every boat, when loaded with 50% of the number of persons the boat is permitted to accommodate seated in their normal positions to one side of the centreline, shall have a freeboard, measured from the waterline to the lowest opening through which the boat may become flooded, of at least 1.5% of the boat’s length or 100 mm., whichever is the greater.

2.12

All boats shall:

(2.12.1) be not less than 3.8 metres and not more than 8.5 metres in length;

(2.12.2) be capable of carrying at least five seated persons and a person lying down.

2.13

Unless the boat has adequate sheer, it shall be provided with a bow cover extending for not less than 15% of its length.

2.14

All boats shall be capable of manoeuvring at speeds of at least 6 knots and maintaining a speed of 6 knots for a period of at least 4 hours.

2.15

All boats shall have sufficient mobility and manoeuvrability in a seaway to enable persons to be retrieved from the water, marshal liferafts and tow the largest liferaft carried on the ship when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment or its equivalent at a speed of at least 2 knots.

2.16

The boat shall be fitted with an inboard or outboard engine complying with the relevant parts of paragraph 3.

2.17

Arrangements for towing shall be permanently fitted in rescue boats and shall be sufficiently strong to marshal or tow liferafts as required by paragraph 2.15.

2.18

All boats shall be fitted with weathertight stowage for small items of equipment.

2.19

Hulls and rigid covers if fitted shall be fire-retardant or non-combustible.

2.20

Each boat shall be of sufficient strength to withstand a load, without residual deflection on removal of that load;

(2.20.1) in the case of boats with metal hulls, 1.25 times the total mass of the boat when loaded with it’s full complement of persons and equipment; or

(2.20.2) in the case of other boats, twice the total mass of the boat when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment.

2.21

All boats shall be fitted with a protective stowage cover and shall be kept covered at all times when the boat is not in use. The cover shall be arranged for quick removal in an emergency.

Rigid Rescue Boat Propulsion

3

3.1

Inboard engine

(3.1.1) Where a boat is powered by an inboard engine it shall be of the compression ignition type. No engine shall be used for any boat if its fuel has a flashpoint of 43°C or less (Closed Cup Test) and the engine shall:

(3.1.1.1) be provided with either a manual starting system, or a power starting system with two independent rechargeable energy sources. Any necessary starting aids shall also be provided; the engine starting systems and starting aids shall start the engine at an ambient temperature of −15°C within 2 minutes of commencing the start procedure unless, in the opinion of the Secretary of State having regard to the particular voyages in which the ship carrying the boat is constantly engaged, a different temperatuare is appropriate; the starting systems shall not be impeded by the engine casing, thwarts or other obstructions;

(3.1.1.2) be capable of operating for not less than 5 minutes after starting from cold with the boat out of the water; and

(3.1.1.3) be capable of operating when the boat is flooded up to the centreline of the crank shaft.

3.2

Outboard engine

(3.2.1) A petrol-driven outboard engine with an approved fuel system may be fitted to a boat provided the tank is specially protected against fire and explosion.

(3.2.2) A petrol engine shall be provided with either a manual starting system, or a power starting system. Any necessary starting aids shall also be provided. The engine starting systems and starting aids shall start the engine at an ambient temperature of −15°C within 2 minutes of commencing the start procedure unless in the opinion of the Secretary of State having regard to the particular voyages in which the ship carrying the boat is constantly engaged, a different temperature is appropriate. The starting systems shall not be impeded by the engine casing, thwarts or other obstructions.

3.3

Unless the propeller is so arranged so as to avoid its rotation constituting a danger to people in the water adjacent to it the drive arrangement between the prime mover and the propeller shall be such that the propeller can be brought to rest without stopping the prime mover. Provision shall be made for ahead and astern propulsion of the craft.

3.4

The exhaust pipe shall be so arranged as to prevent water from entering the engine in normal operation.

3.5

All boats shall be designed with due regard to the safety of persons in the water and to the possibility of damage to the propulsion system by floating debris.

3.6

The boat engine, transmission and engine accessories shall be enclosed in a fire-retardent casing or other suitable arrangements providing similar protection. 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. Starter batteries shall be provided with casings which form a watertight enclosure around the bottom and sides of the batteries. The battery casings shall have a tight fitting top which provides for necessary gas venting.

3.7

The boat engine and accessories shall be designed to limit electromagnetic emissions so that engine operation does not interfere with the operation of radio life saving appliances used in the boat.

3.8

Means shall be provided for recharging all engine-starting, searchlight and, when fitted, radio batteries. Radio batteries shall not be used to provide power for engine starting. The electric power supply from the ship to any rigid rescue boat shall be at a voltage of not exceeding 55 volts direct current or 55 volts root mean square alternating current and shall be capable of being disconnected automatically at the rigid rescue boat embarkation station.

3.9

Water-resistant instructions for starting and operating the engine shall be provided and mounted in a conspicuous place near the engine starting controls.

Boat Fittings

4

4.1

All boats shall be provided with at least one drain valve fitted near the lowest point in the hull, which shall automatically open to drain water from the hull when the boat is not waterborne and shall automatically close to prevent entry of water when the boat is waterborne. Each drain valve shall be provided with a cap or plug to close the valve, which shall be attached to the boat by a lanyard, chain, or other suitable means. Drain valves shall be readily accessible and capable of being closed from inside the boat and their position shall be clearly indicated.

4.2

All boats shall be provided with a rudder and tiller or other suitable means of steering. When a wheel or other remote steering mechanism is also provided the alternative means shall be capable of steering the boat in the case of failure of the steering mechanism. Except where the rudder and tiller forms part of the outboard engine the rudder shall be permanently attached to the boat and the tiller shall be permanently installed on or linked to the rudder stock. However, if the boat has a remote steering mechanism the tiller may be removable and securely stowed near the rudder stock. The steering arrangements shall be so arranged as not to be damaged by operation of the release mechanism or the propeller.

4.3

Except in the vicinity of the rudder; propeller or outboard engine, a buoyant lifeline shall be becketed around the outside of the boat.

4.4

Boats which are not self-righting when capsized shall have suitable handholds on the underside of the hull to enable persons to cling to the boat. The handholds shall be fastened to the boat in such a way that, when subjected to an impact sufficient to cause them to break away from the boat, they break away without damaging the boat.

4.5

Every boat to be launched by a fall or falls shall be fitted with a release mechanism complying with Part IV of this Schedule, except those which are launched by a single suspension which may have an approved release mechanism which is operable when the boat is water borne.

4.6

Every boat shall be fitted with a release device to enable the forward painter to be released when under tension.

4.7

Boats intended for launching down the side of the ship shall have skates and fenders as necessary to facilitate launching and prevent damage to the boat.

4.8

Unless expressly provided otherwise, every boat shall be provided with effective means of bailing or be automatically self-bailing.

Markings

5

5.1

The dimensions of the boat, the number of persons which it is permitted to accommodate, the maker’s serial number, name or trade mark and the date of manufacture shall be marked on the boat in clear permanent characters.

5.2

The name and port of registry of the ship to which the boat belongs shall be marked on each side of the boat’s bow in block capitals of the Roman alphabet.

5.3

Means of identifying the ship to which the boat belongs and the number of the boat shall be marked in such a way that they are visible from above.

Boat Equipment

6

6.1

All items of rescue boat equipment, with the exception of the boat-hook which shall be kept available for fending off purposes, shall be secured within the boat by lashings, storage in lockers or compartments, storage in brackets or similar mounting arrangements, or other suitable means. The equipment shall be secured in such a manner as not to interfere with any launching or recovery procedures. All items of boat equipment shall be as small and of as little mass as possible and shall be packed in suitable compact form.

6.2

The equipment of every boat shall consist of:

(6.2.1) sufficient buoyant oars or paddles to make headway in calm seas; thole pins, crutches or equivalent arrangements shall be provided for each oar; thole pins or crutches shall be attached to the boat by lanyards or chains;

(6.2.2) a buoyant bailer;

(6.2.3) a sea-anchor complying with the requirements of Part I of Schedule 7;

(6.2.4) a painter of sufficient length and strength, attached to the release device complying with the requirements of paragraph 4.6 and placed at the forward end of the boat;

(6.2.5) one buoyant line, not less than 50 metres in length, of sufficient strength to tow a liferaft as required by paragraph 2.15;

(6.2.6) one waterproof electric torch suitable for Morse signalling, together with one spare set of batteries and one spare bulb in a waterproof container;

(6.2.7) one whistle or equivalent sound signal;

(6.2.8) a first-aid outfit complying with the requirements of Part II of Schedule 7 in a waterproof case capable of being closed tightly after use;

(6.2.9) two buoyant rescue quoits, attached to not less than 30 metres of buoyant line with a breaking strain of at least 1.0 kN;

(6.2.10) a boat hook;

(6.2.11) a bucket;

(6.2.12) a knife or hatchet; and

(6.2.13) a portable fire extinguisher.

Instructions and Information

6

7.1

Instructions and information required for inclusion in the training manual specified in Part I of Schedule 11 and in the instructions for on-board maintenance specified in Part II of Schedule 11 shall be in a form suitable for inclusion in such training manual and instructions for on-board maintenance. Instructions and information shall be in English in a clear and concise form and shall include the following:

(7.1.1) general description of the boat and its equipment;

(7.1.2) installation arrangements;

(7.1.3) operational instructions including use of associated survival equipment;

(7.1.4) survival instructions;

(7.1.5) emergency repair instructions;

(7.1.6) deployment, boarding and launching instructions;

(7.1.7) method of launching from within the boat;

(7.1.8) release from launching appliance;

(7.1.9) on board maintenance requirements;

(7.1.10) on servicing requirements;

(7.1.11) use of engine and accessories; and

(7.1.12) recovery of boat including stowage and securing

Access into boats

8

8.1

Every rigid rescue boat shall be so arranged that it can be rapidly boarded by its rescue complement of persons. Rapid disembarkation shall also be possible.

PART II — RIGID INFLATED RESCUE BOATS

1

General

1.1

A rigid inflated rescue boat is a composite craft combining a rigid lower hull and inflated tubes fitted at the edge of the lower hull forming a watertight boundary.

1.2

All rigid inflated rescue boats shall comply with all the requirements of Part I of this Schedule with the exception of paragraphs 1.1 and 2.10.

Construction

2

2.1

The buoyancy of the boat shall be a combination of inherent and inflated buoyancy.

2.2

The inflated buoyancy tube shall be a single tube sub-divided into at least five separate compartments of approximately equal volume.

2.3

All boats shall have adequate inherent buoyancy or inherently buoyant material together with the inflatable compartments on one side (excluding the forward compartment) when inflated, sufficient to float the boat with all its equipment on board when flooded and open to the sea.

2.4

Additional inherent buoyancy equal to 140 Newtons of buoyancy force per person shall be provided for the number of persons the boat is permitted to accommodate. This additional buoyancy shall not be installed externally to the rigid hull of the boat.

2.5

Inherently buoyant material shall not be adversely affected by seawater, oil or oil products.

2.6

The inflated buoyancy tubes shall comply with the requirements of paragraphs 2.20, 2.21 and 2.22 of Part III of this Schedule.

2.7

The inflated buoyancy tubes shall be maintained at all times in a fully inflated condition.

Markings

3

3.1

If any of the markings required by paragraph 5 of Part I of this Schedule are marked on the buoyancy tubes, the materials used to mark them shall be of a type which is compatible with the boats' coated fabric and approved by the boat manufacturer.

Equipment

4

In addition to the equipment required by paragraph 6.2 of Part I of this Schedule the following items are required:

4.1

an efficient manually operated bellows or pump; and

4.2

a repair kit in a suitable container for repairing punctures to the coated fabric of the buoyancy tubes.

PART III — INFLATED RESCUE BOATS

General

1

1.1

An inflated rescue boat is a craft combining a flexible lower hull and inflated tubes fitted at the edge of the lower hull together forming a watertight boundary and which relies solely on the buoyancy of the inflated tubes as the inherent buoyancy of the craft.

1.2

All inflated rescue boats prescribed in this Part shall:

(1.2.1) be constructed with proper workmanship and materials;

(1.2.2) not be damaged in stowage throughout the air temperature range—30°C to +65°C;

(1.2.3) be capable of operating throughout a seawater temperature range of −1°C to +30°C;

(1.2.4) be rot-proof, corrosion-resistance, and not be unduly affected by seawater, oil or fungal attack;

(1.2.5) be resistant to deterioration from exposure to sunlight;

(1.2.6) be of a highly visible colour on all parts where this will assist detection;

(1.2.7) be fitted with retro-reflective material where it will assist in detection and the dimensions and location of the material shall be to the satisfaction of the Secretary of State;

(1.2.8) be capable of satisfactory operation in a sea environment.

Construction

2

2.1

All boats shall be properly constructed and shall be of such form and proportion that they have ample stability in a seaway and sufficient freeboard when loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment. All boats shall be capable of maintaining positive stability in an upright position in calm water when loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment and fully swamped.

2.2

All boats shall be of sufficient strength to:

(2.2.1) enable them to be safely lowered into the water when loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment; and

(2.2.2) be capable of being launched and towed when the ship is making headway at a speed of 5 knots in calm water.

2.3

Seating shall be provided on thwarts, benches or fixed chairs fitted as low as practicable in the boat and constructed so as to be capable of supporting the number of persons each weighing 100 kg. for which spaces are provided in compliance with the requirements of paragraph 2.5.2.

2.4

2.5

The number of persons which a boat shall be permitted to accommodate shall be equal to the lesser of:

(2.5.1) The number of persons having an average mass of 75 kg., all wearing lifejackets, that can be seated in a normal position plus one person lying down without interfering with the means of propulsion or the operation of any of the boat’s equipment; or

(2.5.2) the number of spaces that can be provided on the seating arrangements in accordance with Figure 2 in Part I of Schedule 2 plus one person lying down.

2.6

Each seating position shall be clearly indicated in the boat.

2.7

All boats shall have a boarding ladder that can be used on either side of the boat to enable persons in the water to board the boat. The lowest step of the ladder shall be weighted and float at a level not less than 0.4 metres below the boat’s light waterline.

2.8

The boat shall be so arranged that helpless people can be brought on board either from the sea or on stretchers.

2.9

All surfaces on which persons might walk shall have a non-skid finish.

2.10

All boats, when loaded with 50% of the number of persons the boat is permitted to accommodate seated in their normal positions to one side of the centreline, shall have a freeboard measured from the waterline to the lowest opening through which the boat may become flooded, of at least 1.5% of the boat’s length or 100 mm, whichever is the greater.

2.11

All boats shall:

(2.11.1) be not less that 3.8 metres and not more than 8.5 metres in length;

(2.11.2) be capable of carrying at least five seated persons and a person lying down.

2.12

Unless the boat has adequate sheer, it shall be provided with a bow cover of highly visible colour extending for not less than 15% of its length, and shall be angled upwards to deflect water and spray.

2.13

Boats shall be capable of manoeuvring at speeds of at least 6 knots and maintaining a speed of 6 knots for a period of at least 4 hours.

2.14

Boats shall have sufficient mobility and manoeuvrability in a seaway to enable persons to be retrieved from the water, marshal liferafts and tow the largest liferaft carried on the ship, when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment, or its equivalent, at a speed of at least 2 knots.

2.15

The boat shall be fitted with an inboard or outboard engine complying with the relevant parts of paragraph 3.

2.16

Arrangements for towing shall be permanently fitted in boats and shall be sufficiently strong to marshal or tow liferafts as required by paragraph 2.14.

2.17

All boats shall be fitted with weathertight stowage for small items of equipment.

2.18

An inflated rescue boat shall be constructed in such a way that, when suspended by it’s bridle or lifting hook:

(2.18.1) it is of sufficient strength and rigidity to enable it to be lowered and recovered with its full complement of persons and equipment;

(2.18.2) it is of sufficient strength to withstand a load of 1.1 times the mass of its full complement of persons and equipment at an ambient temperature of −30°C with all relief valves operative;

(2.18.3) it is of sufficient strength to withstand a load of 4 times the mass of its full complement of persons and equipment at an ambient temperature of 20 ± 3°C with all relief valves inoperative.

2.19

Inflated rescue boats shall be so constructed as to be capable of withstanding exposure:

(2.19.1) when stowed on an open deck on a ship at sea;

(2.19.2) for 30 days afloat in all sea conditions.

2.20

The buoyancy of an inflated rescue boat shall be provided by either a single tube subdivided into at least five separate compartments of approximately equal volume or two separate tubes neither exceeding 60% of the total volume. The buoyancy tubes shall be so arranged that, in the event of any one of the compartments being damaged, the intact compartments shall be able to support, with positive freeboard over the boat’s entire periphery, the number of persons which the boat is permitted to accommodate, each having a mass of 75 kg., and seated in their normal positions.

2.21

The buoyancy tubes forming the boundary of the inflated rescue boat shall on inflation provide a volume of not less than 01.7m3 for each person the rescue boat is permitted to accommodate and the diameter of the main buoyancy chamber must be at least 0.43 metres.

2.22

Each buoyancy comparment shall be fitted with a non-return valve for manual inflation and means for deflation. A safety relief valve shall also be fitted to each buoyancy compartment.

2.23

When inverted in the water a boat shall be capable of being righted by not more than 2 persons.

2.24

Rubbing strips shall be provided underneath the bottom and on vulnerable places on the outside of the inflated rescue boat.

2.25

Where a transom is fitted it shall not be inset by more than 20% of the overall length of the inflated rescue boat.

2.26

Suitable patches shall be provided for securing painters forward and aft and becketed lifelines inside and outside the boat.

2.27

The inflated rescue boat shall be maintained at all times in a fully inflated condition.

2.28

All boats shall be fitted with a protective stowage cover and shall be kept covered at all times when the boat is not in use. The cover shall be arranged for quick removal in an emergency.

Inflated rescue boat propulsion

3

3.1

Inboard engine

(3.1.1) Where a boat is powered by an inboard engine it shall be of the compression ignition type. No engine shall be used for any boat if its fuel has a flashpoint of 43°C or less (Closed Cup Test), and the engine shall;

(3.1.1.1) be provided with either a manual starting system, or a power starting system with two independent rechargeable energy sources. Any necessary starting aids shall also be provided; the engine starting systems and starting aids shall start the engine at an ambient temperature of −15°C within 2 minutes of commencing the start procedure unless, in the opinion of the Secretary of State having regard to the particular voyages in which the ship carrying the boat is constantly engaged, a different temperature is appropriate; the starting systems shall not be impeded by the engine casing, thwarts or other obstructions;

(3.1.1.2) be capable of operating for not less than 5 minutes after starting from cold with the boat out of the water;

(3.1.1.3) be capable of operating when the boat is flooded up to the centreline of the crank shaft.

3.2

Outboard engine

(3.2.1) Petrol-driven outboard engines with an approved fuel system may be fitted to boats provided the tanks are specially protected against fire and explosion.

(3.2.2) A petrol engine shall be provided with either a manual starting system, or a power starting system. Any necessary starting aids shall also be provided. The engine starting systems and starting aids shall start the engine at an ambient temperature of −15°C within 2 minutes of commencing the start procedure unless, in the opinion of the Secretary of State having regard to the particular voyages in which the ship carrying the boat is constantly engaged, a different temperature is appropriate. The starting system shall not be impeded by the engine casing, thwarts or other obstructions.

3.3

3.4

The exhaust pipe shall be so arranged as to prevent water from entering the engine in normal position.

3.5

All boats shall be designed with due regard to the safety of persons in the water and to the possibility of damage to the propulsion system by floating debris.

3.6

The boat engine, transmission and engine accessories shall be enclosed in a fire-retardant casing or other suitable arrangements providing similar protection. 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. Starter batteries shall be provided with casings which form a watertight enclosure around the bottom and sides of the batteries. The battery casings shall have a tight fitting top which provides for necessary gas venting.

3.7

The boat engine and accessories shall be designed to limit electromagnetic emissions so that engine operation does not interfere with the operation of radio life-saving appliances used in the boat.

3.8

Means shall be provided for recharging all engine-starting, searchlight and, when fitted, radio batteries. Radio batteries shall not be used to provide power for engine starting. Means shall be provided for recharging rescue boat batteries from the ship’s power supply. The electric power supply connection from the ship to any inflated rescue boat shall be at a voltage of not exceeding 55 volts direct current or 55 volts root mean square alternating current and shall be capable of being disconnected automatically at the inflated rescue boat embarkation station.

3.9

Water-resistant instructions for starting and operating the engine shall be provided and mounted in a conspicuous place near the engine starting controls.

Boat Fittings

4

4.1

All boats shall be provided with at least one drain valve fitted near the lowest point in the hull, which shall automatically open to drain water from the hull when the boat is not waterborne and shall automatically close to prevent entry of water when the boat is waterborne. Each drain valve shall be provided with a cap or plug to close the valve, which shall be readily attached to the boat by a lanyard, chain, or other suitable means. Drain valves shall be accessible and capable of being closed from inside the boat and their position shall be clearly indicated.

4.2

All boats shall be provided with a rudder and tiller or other suitable means of steering. When a wheel or other remote steering mechanism is also provided the alternative means shall be capable of steering the boat in the case of failure of the steering mechanism. Except where the rudder forms part of an outboard engine a rudder shall be permanently attached to the boat and a tiller shall be permanently installed on or linked to the rudder stock. However, if the boat has a remote steering mechanism the tiller may be removable and securely stowed near the rudder stock. The steering arrangements shall be so arranged so not to be damaged by operation of the release mechanism or the propeller.

4.3

Except in the vicinity of the rudder and propeller, a buoyant lifeline shall be becketed around the inside and outside of the boat.

4.4

4.5

4.6

Every boat shall be fitted with a release device to enable the forward painter to be released when under tension.

4.7

Boats intended for launching down the side of a ship shall have skates and fenders as necessary to facilitate launching and prevent damage to the boat.

4.8

Unless expressly provided otherwise, every boat shall be provided with effective means of bailing or be automatically self-bailing.

Markings

5

5.1

The dimensions of the boat, the number of persons which it is permitted to accommodate, the makers serial number, name or trade mark and the date of manufacture shall be marked on the boat in clear permanent characters.

5.2

The name and port of registry of the ship to which the boat belongs shall be marked on each side of the boat’s bow in block capitals of the Roman alphabet.

5.3

Means of identifying the ship to which the boat belongs and the number of the boat shall be marked in such a way that they are visible from above.

5.4

All materials used to mark an inflated rescue boat shall be of a type which is compatible with the boat’s coated fabric and approved by the boat manufacturer.

Boat Equipment

6

6.1

All items of boat equipment, with the exception of the boat-hook which shall be kept available for fending off purposes, shall be secured within the boat by lashings, storage in lockers or compartments, storage in brackets or similar mounting arrangements, or other suitable means. The equipment shall be secured in such a manner as not to interfere with any launching or recovery procedures. All items of boat equipment shall be as small and of as little mass as possible and shall be packed in suitable and compact form.

6.2

The equipment of every boat shall consist of:

(6.2.1) sufficient buoyant oars or paddles to make headway in calm seas; thole pins, crutches or equivalent arrangements shall be provided for each oar; thole pins or crutches shall be attached to the boat by lanyards or chains;

(6.2.2) a buoyant bailer;

(6.2.3) a sea-anchor complying with the requirements of Part I of Schedule 7;

(6.2.4) a painter of sufficient length and strength, attached to the release device complying with the requirements of paragraph 4.6 and replaced at the forward end of the boat;

(6.2.5) one buoyant line, not less than 50 metres in length, of sufficient strength to tow a liferaft as required by paragraph 2.14;

(6.2.6) one waterproof electric torch suitable for Morse signalling, together with one spare set of batteries and one spare bulb in a waterproof container;

(6.2.7) one whistle or equivalent sound signal;

(6.2.8) a first-aid outfit complying with the requirements of Part II of Schedule 7 in a waterproof case capable of being closed tightly after use;

(6.2.9) two buoyant rescue quoits, attached to not less than 30 metres of buoyant line with a breaking strain of at least 1.0kN;

(6.2.10) a buoyant safety knife;

(6.2.11) two sponges;

(6.2.12) an efficiently manually operated bellows or pump;

(6.2.13) a repair kit in a suitable container for repairing punctures;

(6.2.14) a safety boat hook; and

(6.2.15) a portable fire extinguisher.

Instructions and Information

7

7.1

Instructions and information required for inclusion in the training manual specified in Part I of Schedule 11 and in the instructions for on-board maintenance specified in Part II of Schedule 11 shall be in a form suitable for inclusion in such training manual and instructions for on-board maintenance. Instructions and information shall be in English in a clear and concise form and shall include the following:

(7.1.1) general description of the boat and its equipment;

(7.1.2) installation arrangements;

(7.1.3) operational instructions including use of associated survival equipment;

(7.1.4) survival instructions;

(7.1.5) emergency repair instructions;

(7.1.6) deployment, boarding and launching instructions;

(7.1.7) method of launching from within the boat;

(7.1.8) release from launching appliance;

(7.1.9) on board maintenance requirements;

(7.1.10) servicing requirements;

(7.1.11) use of engine and accessories; and

(7.1.12) recovery of boat including stowage and securing.

Access into boats

8

8.1

Every inflated rescue boat shall be so arranged that it can be rapidly boarded by its rescue complement of persons. Rapid disembarkation shall also be possible.

PART IV — RESCUE BOAT DISENGAGING GEARS

1

Except in the case of single point suspension the rescue boat disengaging gear shall be so arranged that all hooks are released simultaneously on the operation of the control mechanism.

2

The means of effecting release shall be placed near the coxwain’s position.

3

The gear shall have two release capabilities:

3.1

a normal release capability which will release the rescue boat only when it is waterborne or when there is no load on the hook(s); and

3.2

an on-load release capability which will release the rescue boat with a load on the hook(s). This release shall be so arranged as to release the rescue boat under any condition of loading from no-load with the rescue boat waterborne to a load of 1.1 times the total mass of the rescue boat when loaded with its full certified complement of persons and equipment. This release shall be adequately protected against accidental or premature use.

4

The means of connection between the hook(s), safety device and the operating lever or release unit shall:

4.1

be arranged and led so as to ensure the efficient operation of the gear;

4.2

wherever necessary be properly cased in for the safety or efficient action of the gear or for the protection of persons from injury; and

4.3

where cased in, means shall be provided for lubricating this equipment.

5

The release control(s) are to be clearly marked in a colour that contrasts with its surroundings, and a suitably worded instruction plate indicating the method of safe operation of the gear shall be provided.

6

Such parts of the gear as would otherwise be likely to be set fast by rust or corrosion shall be made of non-corrodible metal.

7

The mechanism shall be designed with a factor of safety of 6 based on the ultimate strength of the materials used, assuming that the mass of the rescue boat is equally distributed.

SCHEDULE 3 — INFLATED BOATS

General

1

1.1

An inflated boat is a composite craft combining a flexible lower hull and an inflated tube fitted at the edge of the lower hull together forming a watertight boundary and which relies solely on the buoyancy of the inflated tube as the inherent buoyancy of the craft.

1.2

All inflated boats prescribed in this Schedule shall:

(1.2.1) be constructed with proper workmanship and materials;

(1.2.2) not be damaged in stowage throughout the air temperature range −30°C to +65°C;

(1.2.3) be capable of operating throughout a seawater temperature range of −1°C to +30°C;

(1.2.4) be rot-proof, corrosion-resistant, and not be unduly affected by seawater, oil or fungal attack;

(1.2.5) be resistant to deterioration from exposure to sunlight;

(1.2.6) be of a highly visible colour on all parts where this will assist detection;

(1.2.7) be fitted with retro-reflective material where this will assist in detection and the dimensions and location of the material shall be to the satisfaction of the Secretary of State; and

(1.2.8) be capable of satisfactory operation in a sea environment.

Construction

2

2.1

2.2

All boats shall be of sufficient strength to enable them to be safely lowered into the water when loaded with all their equipment and a crew of 2 persons.

2.3

At least one portable thwart shall be fitted to enable the boat to be rowed satisfactorily.

2.4

2.5

The number of persons which a boat shall be permitted to accommodate shall be equal to the lesser of:

(2.5.1) the number of persons having an average mass of 75 kg., all wearing lifejackets, that can be seated in a normal position plus one person lying down; all persons must be seated inboard of the buoyancy tubes and shall not interfere with the means of propulsion or the operation of any of the boat’s equipment; or

(2.5.2) the number of spaces that can be provided on the seating arrangements in accordance with Figure 2 in Part I of Schedule 2 plus one person lying down.

2.6

Each seating position shall be clearly indicated in the boat.

2.7

2.8

The boat shall be so arranged that helpless people can be brought on board either from the sea or on stretchers.

2.9

All surfaces on which persons might walk shall have a non-skid finish.

2.10

All inflated boats, when loaded with 50% of the number of persons the boat is permitted to accommodate seated in their normal positions to one side of the centreline, shall have a freeboard, measured from the waterline to the lowest opening through which the boat may become flooded, of at least 1.5% of the boat’s length or 100 mm, whichever is the greater.

2.11

An inflated boat shall:

(2.11.1) be not less than 3.8 m and not more than 8.5 m in length; and

(2.11.2) be capable of carrying at least three persons and a person lying down.

2.12

2.13

Boats shall be capable of manoeuvring at speeds of at least 6 knots in calm water with 2 persons on board, and maintaining a speed of 6 knots for a period of at least 2 hours.

2.14

Boats shall have sufficient mobility and manoeuvrability in a seaway to enable persons to be retrieved from the water, marshal liferafts, and tow the largest liferaft carried on the ship when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment, or its equivalent, at a speed of at least 2 knots.

2.15

The boat shall be fitted with an outboard engine having a maximum power of 10 HP complying with the requirements of paragraph 3.

2.16

Arrangements for towing shall be permanently fitted in boats and shall be sufficiently strong to marshal or tow liferafts as required by paragraph 2.14.

2.17

Boats shall be fitted with weathertight stowage for small items of equipment.

2.18

A boat shall be constructed in such a way that, when suspended by its bridle or lifting hook:

(2.18.1) it is of sufficient strength and rigidity to enable it to be lowered and recovered with all its equipment and a crew of two persons;

(2.18.2) it is of sufficient strength to withstand a load of 1.1 times the mass of its equipment and a crew of two persons at an ambient temperature of −30°C with relief valves operative; and

(2.18.3) it is of sufficient strength to withstand a load of 4 times the mass of its equipment and a crew of two persons at an ambient temperature of 20 ± 3°C with all relief valves inoperative.

2.19

Inflated boats shall be constructed so as to be capable of withstanding exposure:

(2.19.1) when stowed on an open deck on a ship at sea; and

(2.19.2) for 30 days afloat in all sea conditions.

2.20

The buoyancy of an inflated boat shall be provided by either a single tube subdivided into at least five separate compartments of approximately equal volume or two separate tubes neither exceeding 60% of the total volume. The buoyancy tubes shall be so arranged that, in the event of any one of the compartments being damaged, the intact compartments shall be able to support, with positive freeboard over the boat’s entire periphery, the number of persons which the inflated boat is permitted to accommodate, each having a mass of 75 kg., and seated in their normal positions.

2.21

The buoyancy tubes forming the boundary of the inflated boat shall on inflation provide a volume of not less than 0.17 m3 for each person the boat is permitted to accommodate, and the diameter of the main buoyancy chamber must be at least 0.43 metres.

2.22

Each buoyancy compartment shall be fitted with a non-return valve for manual inflation and means of deflation. A safety valve designed to operate at a pressure not exceeding 125% of the designed working pressure of the buoyancy chamber shall also be fitted to each buoyancy compartment.

2.23

When inverted in the water an inflated boat shall be capable of being righted by not more than two persons.

2.24

Rubbing strips shall be provided underneath the bottom and on vulnerable places on the outside of the boat.

2.25

Where a transom is fitted it shall not be inset by more than 20% of the overall length of the inflated boat.

2.26

Suitable patches shall be provided for securing painters forward and aft and becketed lifelines inside and outside the boat.

2.27

The boat shall be maintained at all times in a fully inflated condition.

2.28

All inflated boats shall be fitted with a protective stowage cover and shall be kept covered at all times when the boat is not in use. The cover should be arranged for quick removal in an emergency.

Boat Propulsion

3

3.1

A petrol-driven outboard engine with an approved fuel system may be fitted to an inflated boat provided the tank is specially protected against fire and explosion.

3.2

A petrol engine shall be provided with a manual starting system. The engine starting system shall start the engine at an ambient temperature of −15°C within 2 minutes of commencing the start procedure. The starting system shall not be impeded by the engine casing, thwarts or other obstructions.

3.3

Unless the propeller is so arranged so as to avoid its rotation constituting a danger to people in the water adjacent to it, the drive arrangement between the prime mover and the propeller shall be such that the propeller can be brought to rest without stopping the prime mover. Provision shall be made for ahead and astern propulsion of the boat.

3.4

The exhaust pipe shall be so arranged as to prevent water from entering the engine in normal operation.

3.5

The boat engine and accessories shall be designed to limit electromagnetic emissions so that engine operation does not interfere with the operation of radio life-saving appliances used in the boat.

3.6

Water-resistant instructions for starting and operating the engine shall be provided and mounted in a conspicuous place near the engine starting controls.

Boat Fittings

4

4.1

All boats shall be provided with at least one drain valve fitted near the lowest point in the hull, which shall automatically open to drain water from the hull when the boat is not waterborne and shall automatically close to prevent entry of water when the boat is waterborne. Each drain valve shall be provided with a cap or plug to close the valve, which shall be attached to the boat by a lanyard, a chain, or other suitable means. Drain valves shall be readily accessible and capable of being closed from inside the boat and their position shall be clearly indicated.

4.2

Except in the vicinity of the outboard engine, a buoyant lifeline shall be becketed around the inside and outside of the boat.

4.3

4.4

A boat shall be capable of being launched by means of a launching appliance complying with the requirements of Part IV of Schedule 6.

4.5

Unless expressly provided otherwise, every boat shall be provided with effective means of bailing or be automatically self-bailing.

Lifting Arrangements

5

5.1

Bridle slinging arrangements shall be fitted to enable the boat to be lowered or raised from the water. The bridle sling shall comprise of at least four legs which should be joined at the top in the form of an eye or be connected to a lifting ring or shackle. The arrangement shall be such that the boat is stable when suspended and either:

(5.1.1) the length of the legs are of equal length; or

(5.1.2) the bridle is permanently attached; or

(5.1.3) it is not possible to connect any of the bridle legs to the wrong position in the boat.

5.2

The bridle shall be manufactured of a material which will not adversely affect the material of the boat and, if necessary, shall be sheathed to prevent abrasion of the fabric.

5.3

The forward lifting attachments shall be securely fastened to the hull and may be bands passing under the hull to the tops of the buoyancy tubes terminating in D rings or eyes to take bridle slings.

5.4

The after lifting attachments shall be similar to the forward attachments or may be made directly to the transom.

5.5

The bridle slinging arrangements used for lowering and recovering the boat shall be such that the breaking tensile strength is at least 6 times the sum of the mass of the boat, its full equipment and a crew of 2 persons each having a mass of 75 kg.

5.6

The bridle sling lifting arrangements shall be proof tested to not less than 4 times their respective working loads. The proof testing can be carried out either:

(5.6.1) individually on each item associated with the lifting arrangements; or

(5.6.2) on the assembly of a structurally completed boat with its lifting arrangements and particular bridle sling. In each case fabric webbings and cordages forming part of the lifting arrangements shall have a breaking strength of not less than six times their respective working loads.

Markings

6

6.1

6.2

The name and port of registry of the ship to which the boat belongs shall be marked on each side of the boat’s bow in block capitals of the Roman alphabet;

6.3

Means of identifying the ship to which the boat belongs and the number of the boat shall be marked in such a way that they are visible from above;

6.4

All material used to mark an inflated boat shall be of a type which is compatible with the boat’s coated fabric and approved by the boat manufacturer.

Boat Equipment

7

7.1

All items of boat equipment, with the exception of the boat hook which shall be kept available for fending off purposes, shall be secured within the boat by lashings, storage in lockers or compartments, storage in brackets or similar mounting arrangements, or other suitable means. The equipment shall be secured in such a manner as not to interfere with any launching or recovery procedures. All items of boat equipment shall be as small and of as little mass as possible and shall be packed in suitable and compact form.

7.2

The equipment of every boat shall consist of:

(7.2.1) at least two buoyant oars or paddles to make headway in calm seas; crutches or equivalent arrangements shall be provided for each oar, and shall be permanently attached to the boat;

(7.2.2) a buoyant bailer;

(7.2.3) a sea-anchor complying with the requirements of Part I of Schedule 7;

(7.2.4) one buoyant line, not less than 50 metres in length, of sufficient strength to tow a liferaft as required by paragraph 2.14.

(7.2.5) a painter 20 metres in length;

(7.2.6) one waterproof electric torch suitable for Morse signalling, together with one spare set of batteries and one spare bulb in a waterproof container;

(7.2.7) one whistle or equivalent sound signal;

(7.2.8) a first-aid outfit in a waterproof case capable of being closed tightly after use, and complying with the requirements of Part II of Schedule 7;

(7.2.9) two buoyant rescue quoits, attached to not less than 30 metres of buoyant line with a breaking strain of at least 1.0 kN;

(7.2.10) a buoyant safety knife;

(7.2.11) two sponges;

(7.2.12) an efficient manually operated bellows or pump;

(7.2.13) a repair kit in a suitable container for repairing punctures;

(7.2.14) a safety boat hook; and

(7.2.15) a portable fire extinguisher.

Instructions and Information

8

8.1

Instructions and information required for inclusion in the training manual specified in Part I of Schedule 11 and in the instructions for on-board maintenance specified in Part II of Schedule 11 shall be in a form suitable for inclusion in such training manual and instructions for on-board maintenance. Instructions and information shall be in English in a clear and concise form and shall include the following:

(8.1.1) general description of the boat and its equipment;

(8.1.2) installation arrangements;

(8.1.3) operational instructions including use of equipment;

(8.1.4) emergency repair instructions;

(8.1.5) deployment, boarding and launching instructions;

(8.1.6) release from launching appliance;

(8.1.7) on board maintenance requirements;

(8.1.8) servicing requirements;

(8.1.9) use of engine; and

(8.1.10) recovery of boat including stowage and securing.

SCHEDULE 4 — LIFERAFTS

PART I — INFLATABLE LIFERAFTS

General

1

1.1

All inflatable liferafts prescribed in this Part shall:

(1.1.1) be constructed with proper workmanship and materials;

(1.1.2) not be damaged in stowing throughout the air temperature range of −30°C to +65°C;

(1.1.3) be capable of operating throughout an air temperature range of −30°C to +65°C, and a sea water temperature range of −1°C to +30°C;

(1.1.4) be rot-proof, corrosion-resistant, and not be unduly affected be sea-water, oil or fungal attack;

(1.1.5) be resistant to deterioration from exposure to sunglight;

(1.1.6) have a canopy of a highly visible colour;

(1.1.7) be fitted with retro-reflective material where this will assist in detection and the dimensions and location of the material shall be to the satisfaction of the Secretary of State; and

(1.1.8) when fully inflated and floating with the canopy uppermost be stable in a seaway.

Construction

2

2.1

Every liferaft shall be so constructed as to be capable of withstanding exposure for 30 days afloat in all sea conditions without such deterioration as would involve any loss of seaworthiness.

2.2

The liferaft shall be so constructed that when it is dropped into the water in its container from a height of 18 metres, the liferaft and its equipment will operate satisfactorily. If the liferaft is to be stowed at a height of more than 18 metres above the waterline in the lightest seagoing condition, it shall be of a type which has been satisfactorily drop-tested from at least that height.

2.3

The floating liferaft shall be capable of withstanding repeated jumps on to it from a height of at least 4.5 metres above its floor both with and without the canopy erected.

2.4

The liferaft and its fittings shall be so constructed as to enable it to be towed at a speed of 3 knots in calm water when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment and with one of its sea-anchors streamed.

2.5

The liferaft shall have a canopy to protect the occupants from exposure which is automatically set in place when the liferaft is launched and waterborne. The canopy shall comply with the following:

(2.5.1) it shall provide insulation against heat and cold by means of either two layers of material separated by an air gap or other equally efficient means; means shall be provided to prevent accumulation of water in the air gap;;

(2.5.2) its interior shall be of a colour that does not cause discomfort to the occupants;

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