"Lifeboat Release Hooks" is published in cooperation with Witherby Seamanship International Ltd.

Order your copy here For members: use discount code SKULDSPEC for a 20% discount

Accidents are frequently caused by poor understanding of lifeboat operations, particularly the release gear systems, and shortfalls in repair and maintenance procedures are also contributing factors. Skuld have developed this booklet for their members to help prevent future lifeboat related accidents. It is meant as a guideline to help develop loss prevention programmes and operation and maintenance manuals.

CONTENTS

Skuld Introduction v

1.  The Requirement for on-load Release Hooks

2.  Lifeboat Accidents

3.  Investigation in to Lifeboat Accidents

3.1  Involving Lifeboats and their Launching Systems

3.2  MAIB’s Recommendations

4.  Pressure for Change to Lifeboat Release Hooks

4.1  2002 – High number of Accidents with Lifeboats Discussed at MSC

4.2  2006 – Improvement to Manuals Required to Address Lifeboat Release Gear Concerns

4.3  2008 – ‘Survival Craft’ Booklet

4.4  2009 – Use of fall Preventer Devices (FPDs)

4.5  2009 – Port State Control

4.6  February 2010 – Sub-Committee on Ship Design and Equipment (DE) agrees guidelines to replace unsafe lifeboat release mechanisms

4.7  May 2011 – Evaluating Lifeboat Release Mechanisms

5.  Common Problems Encountered with Lifeboats and Launching Systems

5.1 Flat to Flat Cam Hooks

5.2 Forward Rotating Round Cam with a Self-Locking Capability

5.3  Flat to Flat Cam with Some Self-Locking Capability

6. Measures to Prevent Accidents with Lifeboats

6.1 Guidelines for Periodic Servicing and Maintenance of Lifeboats, Launching Appliances and On-Load Release Gear

6.2 Specific Procedures for Maintenance and Servicing

6.3 Guidelines on Safety During Abandon Ship Drills Using Lifeboats

6.4 Guidelines for Simulated Launching of Free-Fall Lifeboats

7.  Guidelines for the Fitting of Fall Preventer Devices

7.1 Guidelines for the Fitting and Use of Fall Preventer Devices (FPDs)

8.  May 2011: New Regulations Concerning Lifeboat Release Systems