Competency 3(Survival Craft Proficiency)

1)What is the procedure of life boat drills?

Notification & Mustering

The vessel’s general announcement system is to be used for crew/passengers’ notification.

Apart of distress signal, clear instruction should be given for the mustering position and the
means that are going to be used.

Mustering in the assigned station should be completed quickly under calm conditions without
shouting and panic.

Each crewmember/passenger should proceed to the assigned station having put the personal
life jacket on and having in hand the immersion suit. Immersion suits must only be used upon
the Master’s order. If these are to be used in a later stage, then they should be stored in the life
boat.

The safety officer is responsible to count and report the final number to Master prior
abandoning.

Stage #2: Lowering the boat/raft into the water

In case of free-fall boat (FFB), or on load release side boat, this stage follows the embarkation
stage.

In conditions of calm sea and time availability, the abandon ship mean (boat or raft) should be
lowered into sea water and an embarkation pilot ladder is to be used.

In this case, only the crew assigned/trained and authorized to operate the lifeboat will be
embarked and lowered with the boat.

The engine should be tested and put to continuous work (when waterborne).

Stage #3: Embarkation

As soon as the side boat and the normal lowering procedure is in place, then the boat should be
lowered into water -only with the assigned crew onboard- using davits or cranes.

The control of brake is under safety officer’s supervision and the whole operation is subject to
the Master’s approval. The rest of the crew will embark using a side pilot ladder and Master will
be the last one to embark.

In case of on load release, the embarkation is conducted as soon as the boat is to the
appropriate side position. The final release is again subject to the Master’s approval.

In case of FFB, the crew should proceed to assigned seats and fasten the seat belts.

Safety officer is responsible to check the appropriate fastening of the crew and report to Master.
All hatches must be secured and the engine to be ready for use. The final release order is given
by Master.

During drills, the embarkation in both side boats and FFB should be real, in securing position
with all available securing equipment in place. In drills, do not attempt to embark all crew in the
boat without ensuring that it is properly secured in storage position.

Pre-requirements for abandoning the ship

The following are pre-required in order to execute the abandoning of vessel:

Trained crew (certified and well-trained through drills and briefings)

Appropriate and operational means (Boats/rafts, cranes, davits, pilot ladders)

Appropriate provisions stored in boats

Maintained and tested lifeboat engines

Communication equipment in place

Navigation equipment

Distress signal/message submitted to coastal stations and nearby vessels

Stage #4: Debriefing

After completing the drill, the safety officer should debrief the crew referring to all stages of
execution. Special care should be made to the appropriate use of personal equipment and the
procedure of lowering and deploying abandon ship means (boats or rafts). All used material or
equipment should be returned to the appropriate position/condition as before the drill. Brief
questions may be used to check crew’s knowledge or lessons learned from the drill.

2)What is the procedure of free fall life boat drills?

Simulated launching should be carried out under the supervision of a responsible person who
should be an officer experienced in such procedures and be conducted without the physical
activation of the free-fall release system. Testing of release systems should be separate to and
not carried out during simulated launching drills.
The following requirement and procedures must be followed for lowering and operation.

Requirement

1) All personnel should familiarize themselves with the operation of all life-saving appliances. It
cannot be emphasized too strongly that frequent and conscientious practice for lifeboat drills
should be carried out. This is especially true when there are frequent changes in crew members.

2) Ensure that the freefall lifeboat is free to be launched, and there are no obstructions on the
ramp or below the boat. Ensure that the recovery slings are stowed securely.

Procedures

1) Open embarkation door.

2) Helmsman enters the boat and starts the engine in accordance with the instruction labels
attached to the helmsman’s console.

3) Once the engine is running satisfactorily, stop the engine and reset for immediate restart
after launch.

4) Disconnect lifeboat to davit recharging plug.

5) Helmsman climbs into his seat and ensures that the steering wheel is in the ‘0’ position.

6) Designated persons now embark through the embarkation door,

taking up their seat positions. Each seat is fitted with a four-point safety device. Use the front
rows of seats first, always try to use the same seat and adjust the belts for your body size.

7) Close all hatches except ventilators.

8) Each person fastens their safety belt.

9) Helmsman should operate the handle of hook release. If the hook release system fails, use
the emergency release device to release the hook. The procedure is that turn the hook release
wheel clockwise until hook release.

3)What is the procedure of rescue boat drills?

Rescue boat drills are essential maritime safety exercises designed to ensure that crew
members are familiar with the proper procedures for launching and operating rescue boats in
case of an emergency.

Briefing and Preparation:

The crew receives a briefing on the upcoming drill, including the purpose, objectives, and
specific tasks.

Crew members put on appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as life jackets,
helmets, and other safety gear.

Assembly and Allocation of Roles:

Crew members assemble at designated muster stations, and roles and responsibilities are
assigned.

The designated boat operator and crew members are identified, and their roles are clarified.

Launching Procedures:

The crew is briefed on the proper launching procedures for the rescue boat, including lowering
it from its stowed position, releasing securing devices, and ensuring a safe descent into the
water.

Emphasis is placed on maintaining control and preventing accidents during the launching phase.

Maneuvering and Handling:

Once the rescue boat is in the water, the coxswain and crew practice basic maneuvers to ensure
they can navigate effectively.

Procedures for approaching a person in the water and recovering them onto the rescue boat are
practiced.

Communication:

Proper communication procedures between the rescue boat and the main vessel or other
rescue units are demonstrated and practiced.

Emergency signals and distress calls may be simulated to test the crew's response.

Person Overboard Drill:

Simulating a person falling overboard, the crew practices the rapid and coordinated response to
recover the individual using the rescue boat.

Recovery Procedures:

Procedures for recovering the rescue boat back onto the main vessel are practiced.
This includes hoisting the boat, securing it in its stowed position, and ensuring all equipment is
properly stowed.

Debriefing:

After the drill, a debriefing session is conducted to review the performance, identify areas for
improvement, and address any safety concerns.

4)What are the SOLAS requirements for maintenance of LSA?

The Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention sets international standards for the safety of
shipping. The convention includes specific requirements for the maintenance of Life-Saving
Appliances (LSA). The SOLAS regulations pertaining to the maintenance of LSA are found in
Chapter III - Life-saving Appliances and Arrangements.

General Requirements:

Regulation III/20.11 of SOLAS requires that life-saving appliances should be in good working
order and ready for immediate use.

Regular maintenance, inspections, and tests are essential to ensure the operational readiness of
life-saving appliances.

Maintenance and Inspections:

Regulation III/20.7 of SOLAS stipulates that life-saving appliances, including lifeboats, rescue
boats, launching appliances, and release gear, shall be properly maintained and kept in good
condition.

Maintenance Manuals:

Regulation III/20.8 mandates that every ship carrying life-saving appliances should have on
board a maintenance manual containing instructions for the maintenance of life-saving
appliances.

Periodic Servicing and Surveys:

Lifeboats, rescue boats, and launching appliances are subject to periodic servicing and thorough
examination surveys. The intervals for these surveys are specified in SOLAS and are typically
every 12 or 24 months.

Records and Logbooks:

Regulation III/20.4 requires that an official logbook is kept on board, in which all drills,
inspections, and maintenance carried out on life-saving appliances are recorded.

Spare Parts:

Ships are required to carry an adequate number of approved spare parts for life-saving
appliances (Regulation III/20.10).

Testing of Lifeboats and Rescue Boats:

Regulation III/20.6 mandates that lifeboats and rescue boats shall be lowered to the water and
maneuvered in the water at least once every three months, unless the Administration (flag
state) prescribes a longer interval.

Operational Readiness:

Regulation III/20.3 emphasizes that life-saving appliances shall be so constructed and

maintained as to be at all times efficient for immediate use.

5)What are the SOLAS requirements for inspection of LSA?

The inspection of Life-Saving Appliances (LSA) on ships is governed by the International

Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). The relevant regulations are outlined in SOLAS
Chapter III - Life-Saving Appliances and Arrangements. The purpose of these requirements is to
ensure that life-saving equipment on board vessels is regularly inspected, properly maintained,
and ready for use in case of an emergency.

Inspection by Administration:

Regulation III/20.1 requires that life-saving appliances on ships be inspected by the

administration or an authorized organization at appropriate intervals.

Inspection After Repair or Modification:

Regulation III/20.2 specifies that life-saving appliances should be subject to an inspection after
repair or modification, and a record of such inspections should be maintained.

Annual Inspection:

Regulation III/20.3 requires an annual inspection of life-saving appliances, and the intervals
between inspections should not exceed 12 months.

Spare Parts Inspection:

The spare parts and tools required for the maintenance of life-saving appliances should also be
inspected to ensure their readiness for use (Regulation III/20.5).
Examination of Instructions:

The instructions for on-board maintenance and operation of life-saving appliances should be
examined during inspections to ensure their compliance with SOLAS regulations (Regulation
III/20.6).

Testing of On-Load Release Gear:

Lifeboat on-load release gear, launching devices, and associated appliances should be subjected
to a thorough examination and operational test at intervals not exceeding 12 months
(Regulation III/20.4).

Inspection Record:

Regulation III/20.8 mandates the maintenance of a record of inspections and maintenance for
life-saving appliances. This record should be available for inspection by authorized personnel,
including port state control officers.

Post-Drill Inspection:

After every abandon ship drill, life-saving appliances, especially lifeboats and liferafts, should be
carefully examined to ensure that they are in proper working condition (Regulation III/19.3.3).

Special Inspection Following Overload Testing:

If a lifeboat or rescue boat is subjected to an overload test, a special inspection is required, and
a report detailing the test and its results should be submitted to the administration (Regulation
III/20.10).

Marking and Labelling:

Life-saving appliances must be marked and labeled in accordance with SOLAS requirements, and
inspectors should check for compliance during inspections (Regulation III/20.9).

6)What information does Checklist ``Safety Inspection of LSA`` contain?

The specific content of a "Safety Inspection of Life-Saving Appliances (LSA)" checklist may vary
depending on the organization, the type of vessel, and any specific regulations or guidelines
followed. However, a comprehensive checklist for the safety inspection of life-saving appliances
typically covers a range of items to ensure that all necessary equipment is in good working
order and ready for use in case of an emergency.

General Information:
Date and time of the inspection.

Vessel name, IMO number, and flag state.

Lifeboats:

Condition of hull, fittings, and structural components.

Integrity and condition of watertight seals.

Operation of release mechanisms.

Condition and operation of propulsion and steering systems.

Condition of oars, paddles, and other ancillary equipment.

Rescue Boats:

Hull condition and integrity.

Condition of hull attachments and fittings.

Operation of on-load release hooks and davits.

Condition and operation of propulsion and steering systems.

Integrity of fuel systems and engines.

Liferafts:

Overall condition and security of liferaft canister or container.

Inflation system integrity.

Condition of buoyancy chambers and canopy.

Condition of painter line and hydrostatic release units.

Lifebuoys:

Condition and visibility of lifebuoys.

Condition of grab lines and retro-reflective tapes.

Attachment of lights and other accessories.

Lifejackets:
Condition and proper stowage of lifejackets.

Integrity of straps, buckles, and zippers.

Functionality of inflation mechanisms (if applicable).

Inspection of lights and whistles.

Immersion Suits:

Condition and proper stowage of immersion suits.

Integrity of seams and closures.

Functionality of zippers, seals, and gloves.

Inspection of lights and whistles.

Launching and Recovery Equipment:

Condition and operation of launching appliances, davits, and winches.

Integrity of falls and wire ropes.

Functionality of on-load release mechanisms.

Lights and Signaling Equipment:

Inspection of lifeboat and liferaft lights.

Condition of signaling mirrors, rockets, and hand flares.

Inspection of distress signals and smoke signals.

Documentation:

Review of maintenance records and inspection certificates.

Verification of the presence of relevant documentation on board.

Crew Familiarization:

Confirmation of crew members' familiarity with the operation and use of life-saving appliances.

7)What survival techniques do you know?

Food Foraging and Fishing:

Understanding basic principles of edible plants, fungi, and how to catch fish can provide a
sustainable source of food. However, it's essential to have proper knowledge to avoid
consuming toxic plants.

First Aid:

Basic first aid skills are crucial for treating injuries and preventing further harm. This includes
wound care, CPR, and addressing common medical issues.

Weather Observation:

Monitoring changes in weather conditions helps in planning and adapting to environmental

challenges.

Navigation and Signaling:

Using navigational tools such as a compass and map, or natural navigation techniques like using
the sun or stars, can help maintain direction. Signaling techniques, such as using mirrors,
whistles, or signal fires, can attract attention.

8)What is SART? How does it work?

A Search and Rescue Transponder (SART) is a vital piece of maritime safety equipment designed
to enhance the visibility of a survival craft or distressed vessel to aid in search and rescue
operations.

The key features and functions of a SART:

Search and Rescue Aircraft Homing:

In addition to responding to radar signals, SARTs may transmit a secondary homing signal on the
121.5 MHz frequency.

Manually Activated:

SARTs are manually activated by the crew in distress. When activated, the SART begins
transmitting radar and homing signals, providing a means for search and rescue teams to locate
the distressed vessel or survival craft.

Integration with Liferafts:

SARTs are often integrated into liferafts or lifeboats as part of the vessel's emergency
equipment. In the event of abandoning ship, the SART becomes an essential tool for increasing
visibility to search and rescue assets.
Compact and Portable:

SARTs are designed to be compact and portable, allowing them to be easily carried and
deployed by individuals in distress.

9)What is EPIRB? How does it work?

An Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is a critical piece of safety equipment
used in maritime and aviation settings. Its primary function is to transmit a distress signal to
alert search and rescue authorities in the event of an emergency.

The key features and functions of an EPIRB:

Distress Alerting:

The primary purpose of an EPIRB is to initiate a distress alert. When activated, it transmits a
coded distress signal on the international distress frequency (typically 406 MHz) that is
monitored by search and rescue authorities around the world.

Float-Free and Manual Activation:

EPIRBs may have a float-free mechanism that automatically activates the beacon when it is
submerged in water.

Battery Life and Self-Test Features:

EPIRBs are equipped with long-lasting batteries, and they often include self-test features to
allow users to verify the functionality of the beacon periodically.

Inventory Liferaft and Lifeboat

Liferaft:

This inventory is crucial for ensuring that the liferaft is properly equipped and ready for use in
case of an emergency at sea.

Survival Equipment:

Lifeboat rations or emergency food supplies.

Water supplies.

First aid kit.

Seasickness tablets.
Flashlight and spare batteries.

Signal mirror.

Whistle.

Signal flares.

Fishing kit.

Repair kit.

Communications Equipment:

Emergency radio transceiver.

Handheld VHF radio.

EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon).

Navigation Equipment:

Sea anchor and line.

Paddles or oars.

Bailer.

Miscellaneous Items:

Waterproof flashlight.

Sponges or towels.

Hand pump.

Repair tools.

Instruction manual.

Lifeboat:

Propulsion and Steering:

Verify the presence and condition of oars, paddles, or other propulsion devices.

Check the functionality of the lifeboat's propulsion and steering systems.

Equipment for Occupants:

Lifeboat rations or emergency food supplies.

Potable water supplies.

Thermal protective aids or blankets.

First aid kit.

Seasickness tablets.

Communications Equipment:

Emergency radio transceiver.

Handheld VHF radio.

EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon).

Navigation Equipment:

Sea anchor and line.

Compass.

Paddles or oars.

Bailer or bilge pump.

Safety and Survival Equipment:

Lifebuoys.

Signal flares and smoke signals.

Signaling mirror.

Whistle.

Flashlight and spare batteries.

Rescue quoit or buoyant line thrower.

Miscellaneous Items:

Waterproof flashlight.
Sponges or towels.

Hand pump.

Multi-tool or repair kit.

Instruction manual.

Identification and Documentation:

Certificate of inspection.

Lifeboat serial number.

Manufacturer's instructions.

Firefighting Equipment:

Portable fire extinguisher.

Fire-resistant coveralls.

Seats and Accommodations:

Adequate seating for occupants.

If applicable, lifeboat canopy or cover.

Type of LifeRaft:

The life raft on board ship are released or launched into the water by three different methods:

1) Auto release with Hydrostatic Release Unit (HRU).

2) Manually launching.(Throw OverBoard)

3) Launching by Davits.

The Working of HRU:

HRU acts as a connecting media between life raft container and ship deck, where it is stored.

The HRU comes in action under the pressure of water exerted on HRU when the ship sinks
below 4m of water level.

The HRU consists of a sharp knife or chisel which is used to cut the strap lashed over the
container carrying life raft, but it still holds the painter at the weak link.
The HRU is connected to the container through a lashing arrangement which can be disengaged
quickly by means of slip hook when launching the raft manually.

The HRU is connected to a strong point on deck through a weak link.

When vessel sinks, the HRU cuts the rope and the container floats to the surface of water.

Manual Launching Procedure of Life raft:

Check that one end of the painter of the raft is well secured to a strong point on ship’s deck or
structure.

Remove the lashing from the container of the raft and open the way to portable rail if available.

Check the ship side where the raft to be launched is clear.

Two people should lift the container from both sides horizontally and throw the container.

Make sure the painter is still fixed at a strong point so that the raft should not be waved away by
waters.

Pull the painter with a hard jerk to fire the gas bottle to inflate the raft.

The life raft will take 20-30 sec to inflate.

Board the life raft one by one using ladder or rope.

Avoid sharp objects like knives, shoes and other sharp objects etc which may damage the raft
surface.

When everybody is aboard, after a headcount, cut the painter with a sharp knife.

Launching Raft by Davit:

Open the lashing and remove the raft container from HRU by opening the manual slip hook or
bottle screw arrangement.

Tie up the one end of the painter of raft into a strong point at deck.

Keep the container in the open and attach the davit hook to the given eye in the canister/
container

Take up the raft load by davit and keep the container hanging at embarkation deck area.

Pull the painter and inflate the raft. Have a thorough check on the inflated raft.
Start boarding the raft without the shoes and other sharp object.

After the boarding is completed, check the bottom is clear and release the securing lines, if any.

Someone inside the raft will detach the hook of the davit from the raft when tha raft is just
above the water.