201509 Being tough may not be enough

 Edited from Marine Accident Casebook

There are concerns that freefall lifeboats being installed in vessels currently under construction may not be compliant with the Life Saving Appliance (LSA) Code. Despite type-approval and acceptance by a major classification society the design does not comply with LSA Code (Chapter IV 4.7.2.2), which calls for at least 650mm free clearance in front of the backrest. In this design the distance is only about 150mm. Under certain circumstances such a limited distance can be dangerous or even fatal to any person sitting in that seat. In addition to the personal injury hazard the non-compliance could put the vessel at risk of detention in the event of a port state control inspection.

Efforts are underway to resolve the situation with the lifeboat manufacturer in question. However the same issue may arise with other lifeboat designs, and crew should be aware of the issue.

Lessons learned
1. Even classification societies and the class inspector on board during the vessel construction can make mistakes or miss something. Mariners should remain vigilant as ultimately they will be the ones using the equipment.
2. Shipowners, Masters and mates should ensure that lifeboats aboard their vessels are compliant with the LSA Code and, in event of noncompliance, advise their owners and class society.