Regulation 20.11. Of Chapter III of the 1996 Amendments to the 1974 SOLAS Convention specifies that launching appliances and lifeboat on-load release gear should be subjected to a thorough examination / a dynamic test of the winch brake for the former and an overhauling / an operational test for the latter at least once every five (5) years (hereinafter referred to as "service") respectively. The requirements of the Malta Government related to the regulation are shown in Technical Information No.331 dated 30 September 1999 of the Society.

In this respect, the Government has informed the Society that the regulation should also apply to the launching appliances installed on board '83SOLAS existing ships (ships constructed before 1 July 1986) as follows. Technical Information No. 331 is canceled accordingly.

?1. The first "service" is to be carried out during the first Safety Equipment Renewal Survey 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 issued valid for only six (6) months, by which time this requirement is to be complied with.
?2. Notwithstanding ?1 above, a dynamic test of the winch brake of the launching appliances installed on board '83 SOLAS existing ships is to be in accordance with the follows:
(1) Winches that are fitted with a speed-limiting device are to be in accordance with ?1 above.
(2) Winches that are not fitted with the device may be exempted from the test.
(3) Where the test has been already exempted, you are recommended to confirm whether the device is fitted or not, and to follow (1) or (2) above accordingly at the next Safety Equipment Renewal or Annual Survey, whichever is earlier.
?3. The "service" is to be done in the presence of a Surveyor to the Society.

For any questions about the subject, please contact Material and Equipment Department (Tel : 03-5226-2020, Fax : 03-5226-2019).