Information Note

IMCA D 04/17

SPHL Battery Box

Diving Division members’ attention is drawn to the Oceanwide Safety Notice (attached), especially if
recommissioning a self-propelled hyperbaric lifeboat (SPHL) after a layup.

The SPHL battery box has the potential, if not properly maintained and/or incorrectly operated, to develop a
build-up of hydrogen gas within the box or within the cockpit without alarm or detection, which could lead to a
safety risk.

If members do identify a problem with their hyperbaric lifeboat battery charging ventilation systems, or require
further details, please contact Oceanwide directly for assistance.

For more details, please contact: Issue date: Document reference(s):

Peter.Sieniewicz@imca-int.com March 2017 Diving Division IMCA D 04/17
The information contained herein is given for guidance only and endeavours to reflect best industry practice.
For the avoidance of doubt no legal liability shall attach to any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained.
 SAFETY NOTICE

Dear Client,

In Reference to the IMCA safety flash 31/16 :

The SPHL battery box has the potential, if not properly maintained and/or incorrectly operated, to develop a
build-up of hydrogen gas within the box or within the cockpit without alarm or detection, which could lead to a
safety risk.

We further recommend that SPHL owners take extra care of the potential hazards when recommissioning
systems that may have been out of service.

Please follow the inspection steps detailed in point number 5 of the attached safety flash to evaluate if this
potential safety risk has been realized on your vessel and feedback any related concerns to
Ronald.devisser@oceanwidesafety.nl.

We have support on standby to assist you in achieving safety compliance should you require such assistance.

With kind regards,

Rob Bunders| Director

Oceanwide Safety at Sea B.V.