Sec Mack

⚓ SOLAS Lifeboat Regulations (Key Requirements)

1. Lifeboat Capacity

* Ships must carry lifeboats (and/or liferafts) with total capacity for all persons on board.
* Cargo ships generally require lifeboats on both sides of the vessel.

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2. Construction & Strength

* Lifeboats must be strongly constructed and able to withstand sea conditions.
* They must have sufficient stability and freeboard when fully loaded.
* Must remain positively stable even when open to sea.

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3. Enclosed Design

* Modern SOLAS lifeboats must be:
* Totally enclosed (especially for tankers & dangerous cargo ships)
* Or partially enclosed where permitted
* This protects occupants from weather, fire, and waves.

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4. Propulsion & Performance

* Lifeboats must be motor-driven (engine fitted).
* Must be capable of at least:
* 6 knots speed
* Sufficient endurance for search and survival operations (commonly 24 hours fuel endurance requirement in practice standards)

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5. Launching Arrangements

* Must be launched by:
* Davit systems, or
* Free-fall launching system (for some vessels)
* Launching equipment must allow:
* Quick, safe evacuation
* Operation even during ship blackout conditions

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6. Equipment Onboard

Each lifeboat must carry essential survival equipment such as:

* Food and drinking water
* Flares and signaling devices
* Compass
* First aid kit
* Sea anchor
* Tools for survival and repair

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7. Readiness & Maintenance

* Lifeboats must be:
* Always ready for immediate use
* Regularly inspected and maintained
* Includes:
* Weekly checks
* Monthly inspections
* Periodic launching drills

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8. Stowage & Securing

* Must be properly secured in davits or stowage position
* Must allow:
* Quick release in emergency
* No obstruction during evacuation

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9. Lifeboat Drills

* Mandatory abandon ship drills at least monthly
* Crew must practice:
* Boarding
* Launching procedures
* Operation of equipment

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⚓ Simple Summary

Under SOLAS, lifeboats must be:

* Enough for everyone onboard
* Strong, stable, and seaworthy
* Enclosed and motor-propelled
* Quickly launchable
* Fully equipped for survival
* Always maintained and drill-ready

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