LSA

Question 1

Describe the procedure to launching a lifeboat.

Answer 1

Launching the Lifeboat

1. All personnel mustered.
2. Rig the painter to a strong point forward of the davit.
3. Release the senhouse slip holding the gripes.
4. Helmsman enters the lifeboat first, fits plug and prepares engine.
5. All personnel enter the lifeboat wearing lifejackets (possibly immersion suits depending on sea water temperature. Weight is evenly distributed around life boat.
6. Start the engine and leave it running in neutral.
7. Lifeboat can be lowered with everyone inside by pulling the brake wire. Alternatively, the boat can be lowered manually by lifting the brake lever on the boat deck. Ensure fall preventer devices (FPDs) and in place.
8. When the lifeboat reaches the water, release the brake wire and release the falls hook quick release lever.
9. To release falls, ensure hydrostatic indicator is pointing to ‘okay’ position.
10. Check the falls are clear and have been released then move clear of the vessel.

Question 2

Describe the procedure for recovering the lifeboat.

Answer 2

Recovery of the Lifeboat

1. Ensure brake lever on the boat deck is fully closed.
2. Before coming alongside, reset the lifting hook mechanism.
3. Connect the fall hooks to the lifeboat, ensuring the wire is not twisted.
4. Reset the hydrostatic release mechanism. Pull out the position-locking pin. Move the handle to the closed position. Release the position locking pin and insert the safety pin.
5. Visually check fwd and aft falls cam release and lever arm in correct position.
6. Commence hoisting the lifeboat.
7. When the lifeboat is just clear of the water, check the hydrostatic release indicator has moved to the OK position. Check the lever arms and cam release are still in correct positions. Continue hoisting.
8. Turn off engine.
9. Limit switches will stop lifeboat just short of fully raised position.
10. Disembark personnel.

Question 3

What are the lifebuoy requirements for Class VII Cargo ships over 500gt?

Answer 3

Class VII – Over 500gt – Lifebuoys

Under 100m – 8
100m-150m – 10
150m – 200m – 12
200m+ - 14

At least one lifebuoy with buoyant line
Not less than 50% with self-igniting lights
2 with self-activating smoke and quick release from bridgewings

Question 4

Describe the lifejacket requirements for a Class VII cargo ship over 500gt?

Answer 4

Class VII – Over 500gt Lifejackets

• One lifejacket suitable for a person over 32kg or more for the total number the ship is certified to carry.
• For every person weighing less than 32kg or a minimum of 2 on a ship which carries children.
• Sufficient lifejackets for those on watch or at remote locations. At least 4 where crew is less than 16 and 25% of crew if above 16.
• Inflatable lifejackets for the crew of the rescue boat.