LIFERAFTS.

Cargo- and passenger vessels as well as fishing crafts are equipped with approved liferafts. The number, type and carrying capacity derive from regulations and additional requirements.

Approved are liferafts throw overboard type, liferafts davit launched type & large liferafts without any protective canopy and usable either way up.

Liferafts are automatically inflatable. For launching they may be thrown overboard or designed and positioned near launching appliances for launching fully manned.

All liferafts are so installed that they can be launched quickly, secure­ly and safely - if possible by one man - even with 20° list, over the high side. For that reason liferafts are nowadays almost always stowed on swing­ing-out storage frames, inclined ramps or equivalent appliances.

Every inflatable liferaft is made from coated synthetic fabric and as a rule is packed tightly folded in a plastic container. The weight of a liferaft including its packaging and full distress equipment lies between 100 kg and 185 kg depending on the size of the raft.

Every inflatable liferaft afloat withstands all weather conditions at sea for 30 days, it is operable over an air temperature range -30°C to +66°C, it can be thrown into the water in its container, it has adequate stability in a seaway when inflated, the floor is waterproof and can be inflated for insulation against cold. The inflatable liferaft has a canopy of a clearly visible color, which protects the occupants from the effects of the weather. It has a light 6n the top, inside & outside, an arrangement for collecting rainwater and a fitting for the radar transponder or the aeri­al of the portable radio apparatus.

For inflation and to connect the inflated raft to the ship there is a release painter line, which is cut, using a knife. Lifelines are provided all around, inside & outside. Fitted to every opening is a boarding arrange­ment for persons in the water.

1 What safety equipment are cargo and passenger vessels equipped with?

2 How are all liferafts installed?

3 What is the weight of liferaft?

Date: 2015-01-11; view: 1232