Rescue boat lifting arrangement failure.
A February 2023 report from the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) Maritime Administrator (the “Administrator”) revealed a serious incident that occurred on board one of its registered vessels, resulting in the injury of two crewmembers. The incident involved the failure of the release hook support post of the ship’s rescue boat, which caused the boat and its occupants to fall about 9 meters to the water.
According to the report, the incident happened during a planned drill, when the rescue boat was being lowered to the water with two crewmembers on board. The rescue boat had been previously tested without anyone on board and no issues were detected. However, as the boat was being lowered, the support post of the release hook broke due to severe corrosion and deterioration. The lower side of the support post was hidden below the deck and could only be seen after removing a portable fuel tank. The rescue boat and the two crewmembers plunged into the water and were quickly rescued and taken ashore for medical treatment.
The report identified the rescue boat as a Jiangyin Wolong model “JY40KR”, manufactured in 2008. The boat had passed its annual inspection in November 2022 and no defects or problems were noted at that time. The Administrator recommended that owners, operators, and Masters of RMI-registered vessels fitted with Jiangyin Wolong “JY40KR” rescue boats conduct thorough inspections of the release hook and its entire support post, including mounting hardware, for signs of deterioration. The Administrator also advised that owners, operators, and Masters ensure monthly inspections of life-saving appliances include comprehensive inspections of lifting arrangements for all onboard lifeboats and rescue boats.
Although the make and type were identified in the report, please note that this incident may happen to any make and model of rescue boats with built-in release hook system. Based on our experience, we have similar deficiencies on several boats made by different manufacturers.
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The release hook support post of the rescue boat is a critical component that ensures the safe and timely deployment of the boat in case of an emergency. However, this component can fail due to various factors, such as corrosion, fatigue, mechanical damage, or improper installation.
The failure of the release hook support post can have serious consequences, such as:
- The release hook mechanism may not work properly, causing delays or difficulties in launching the rescue boat.
- The release hook mechanism may malfunction and release the rescue boat prematurely or unexpectedly, endangering the crew and damaging the boat or the ship.
- The release hook support post may collapse or break, causing injuries to the crew or damage to the boat or the ship.
Therefore, it is essential to prevent the failure of the release hook support post by following these steps:
- Inspect the release hook support post regularly for any signs of corrosion, cracks, deformation, or wear. Use appropriate tools and methods to measure the thickness, strength, and alignment of the metal. Check for any loose or missing bolts or nuts. Replace or repair any damaged or defective parts as soon as possible. Have proper housekeeping. Keep the area clear of items for proper visual inspection.
- Apply anti-corrosion coatings or paints to protect the metal from rust and deterioration. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and specifications for the type and frequency of coating or painting. Ensure that the coating or paint does not interfere with the operation of the release hook mechanism or create any friction or resistance.
- Lubricate the moving parts of the release hook mechanism, such as the lever, spring, pin, and hook. Use suitable lubricants that are compatible with the metal and resistant to water and salt. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and specifications for the amount and frequency of lubrication. Ensure that the lubricant does not contaminate or clog any parts of the mechanism.
- Test the release hook mechanism before each use of the rescue boat. Ensure that it works smoothly and reliably. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and specifications for the testing procedure and criteria. Record and report any anomalies or malfunctions.
- Train and educate the crew on how to use and maintain the release hook support post and mechanism. Provide clear and updated manuals and instructions. Conduct regular drills and exercises to familiarize and practice with the equipment. Ensure that only authorized and qualified personnel operate and service the equipment.
By following these best practices, you can prevent the failure of the release hook support post of your ship’s rescue boat and ensure its readiness and safety in case of an emergency.
*N&P Maritime (S.E.A.) Pte Ltd is the authorized service station for manufacturers such as Jiangsu Jiaoyan F.R.P Co., Ltd, Qingdao Beihai, Zhenjiang Marine, Mansei Inc, Sekigahara Seisakusho Ltd, Fassmer-Marland & more. To see our full list of certificates, please click here.
We supply Genuine, OEM and compatible spare parts for lifeboat, rescue boat and davit.
Contact us at sales@npmarine.sg and/or +65 97684033 if you have any questions about your lifeboat, rescue boat and davit.
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Source: MSA No. 03-23