Initial tests of lifeboats: IMO has adopted amendments

Lloyd's Register on 6 July 2023 published important information about the tests of lifeboats.

This news is relevant to all shipowners, ship operators, ship managers, ship masters, designers, shipbuilders, and manufacturers.

The International Maritime Organisation has adopted amendments to the SOLAS Convention, Resolution MSC.81(70), and the International Life-Saving Appliance (LSA) Code*, which come into force on 1 January 2024.

* IMO Resolutions MSC.482(103), MSC.485(103) and MSC.488(103)

These amendments mean the installation survey requirement for carrying out a launch test of lifeboats, when the ship is making headway at not less than five knots, will only be applicable to davit-launched lifeboats and will no longer be required for free-fall lifeboats.

Possible early implementation

Flag Administrations may choose to adopt the amendments prior to the entry-into-force date of 1 January 2024 and allow early implementation, as permitted by MSC.8/Circular 2 and MSC.1/Circular 1565.

LINK TO THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE

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