SOLAS 1996 amendments requires in Regulation Ⅲ/20.11 that launching appliances of lifeboats and rescue boats shall be subjected to a thorough examination and a dynamic test of the winch brake at interval not exceeding 5 years. In addition, lifeboat on-load release gear shall be subjected to an overhauling and an operational test at least every 5 years.
The Administration of Malta has notified the Society of its requirements for launching appliances and on-load release gear on board Marta flag vessels, which are reproduced below for information/action:

1. The reference to 5 year intervals in Ⅲ/20.11.1.2 and Ⅲ/20.11.2.3 starts as of 1 July 1998.
2. The first service is to be carried out during the first Safety Equipment Renewal Survey on or after 1 July 1998. If at the time of this survey the port is not a convenient port, then a Conditional Safety Equipment Certificate is to be issued valid for only 6 month, by which time this requirement is to be complied with.
3. The thorough examinations/overhauls and tests in 5 year intervals shall be done in the presence of a surveyor.
4. A dynamic test of a winch brake is only required for appliances of new ships as defined by the 1983 SOLAS amendments.



Department in charge : Material and Equipment Department
Lifesaving/Cargo Gear Equipment Sec.
Tel : +81-3-5226-2020
Fax : +81-3-5226-2019