Bad maintenance of lifesaving gear costs lives

From July 1, 2006, regular inspections, tests and services by manufacturer-trained and approved technicians become mandatory for all SOLAS ships. Failure of ship operators to prove that they follow the new inspection and maintenance requirements will result in their ships being detained and delayed. “Time’s up for unsafe maintenance,” says Leiv Groenstoel, senior engineer, service division of Umoe Schat-Harding. “Ship owners and managers who cannot document and demonstrate that they have used fully-trained and approved technicians to service their lifeboats and davits will pay the price. And it is not just dealing with delays, but also the costs of flying in spares. Good regular maintenance pays for itself.”

Groenstoel says it would be foolish to wait until then to begin the inspections or begin using properly authorised technicians. “Operators need to be able to demonstrate that they are following this regime when they have their annual class and flag survey,” he says. “That survey could follow closely on July 2006, and lead to delays and problems.”

The amended Chapter III to SOLAS comes into force in July 2006 and introduces, for the first time, a clear and safe international regime for the inspection and maintenance of life saving appliances. The new rules require regular tests and inspections of lifeboats, release gear and davit winches, on all SOLAS ships, and specify what these tests should be and who should do them. While weekly and monthly work can be carried out by on board

personnel, they must be done to standards set down by the manufacturer. The annual and five-yearly tests and service have to be done by personnel trained and authorised by the manufacturer.