With reference to free-fall lifeboat on ocean-going ships, what are the periodical maintenance, tests, checks, secondary means of lowering and drills?
Short answer
- Annual survey: thorough examination of launching appliances, winch brake dynamic test at max lowering speed with mass of survival craft without persons
- 5-year test: winch brake dynamic test with proof load of 1.1 times weight of survival craft + full complement
- Release gear: annual thorough examination and operational test; on-load release gear operational test at 1.1 times total mass every 5 years
- Free-fall release: operational test by free-fall launch with crew or test without launching per maintenance requirements
- Secondary lowering: LSA Code Ch VI §6.1.4.7, must launch against 2° trim / 5° list, connected to main and emergency power if not gravity/mechanical/manual
- Monthly drills: per MSC.1/Circ.1206/Rev.1 Annex 2 §2.4.1, manufacturer’s instructions, embarkation, seating, safety belts, launch actions
- Drill checks: MSC.1/Circ.1206/Rev.1 Annex 2 §1.3.3, verify maintenance per manuals, report wear/corrosion
- Drill purpose: MSC.1/Circ.1486 Annex 1 §3, verify system readiness, train crew, demonstrate capability
- ETO role: ensure secondary lowering power from main/emergency, check lifeboat electrical systems, report faults, maintain records
Full answer
The full answer explains each point step by step, with the regulations and figures behind it and the discussion from other candidates. It is in the ETO section of the Marine One forum, open to members enrolled for the ETO exam.