Free-fall lifeboat and launching appliance
What is being checked
The inspector is checking whether the complete arrangement for the free-fall lifeboat, release system and launching appliance is within service limits and capable of safe immediate use, and whether officers and assigned crew understand its actual operation.
Ready onboard
0/6 completePractice questions
Answer aloud, then open the preparation point.
1How is the free-fall lifeboat, release system and launching appliance prepared for immediate use?
Follow the posted sequence and include boarding, restraint, launch command, release safeguards, engine operation, simulated launch and recovery.
2What must be checked before release or deployment?
Verify hull, seat restraints, engine, batteries, release controls, interlocks, ramp, recovery gear and simulated-launch arrangements, personnel position, communications and the area into which the equipment will move.
3Show the maintenance and examination status.
Match physical identification to weekly and monthly checks, annual examinations, simulated launches and five-year tests.
4Who may maintain or adjust the release arrangement?
Follow SOLAS, flag and MSC.402(96) authorisation requirements. Crew routine maintenance does not permit unauthorised overhaul or adjustment.
5What is the alternative if normal deployment is unsafe?
Use the vessel-specific contingency and risk assessment without improvising an unapproved release or lifting method.
Where an observation may arise
Inspection identified hull damage, defective restraints, release fault, ramp obstruction, weak battery or recovery-gear defect.
Required evidence was overdue, incomplete or did not match the equipment: weekly and monthly checks, annual examinations, simulated launches and five-year tests.
A pin, lashing, obstruction or unauthorised arrangement could prevent immediate deployment.
Posted instructions or crew explanation did not match the fitted system.
Assigned personnel could not explain boarding, restraint, launch command, release safeguards, engine operation, simulated launch and recovery.
Release, launching or pressure equipment had been adjusted or repaired without required authorisation.
Master's practical note
Check one complete deployment chain from stowage to recovery. A serviced component does not prove that access, power, communication and crew actions will work together.
Equipment boundary and references
Equipment boundary: Operational demonstrations must follow safe drill controls and maker instructions. Do not launch, release or load-test equipment solely to satisfy an interview.
References
- OCIMF SIRE 2.0 Question Library Part 1, Version 1.0, Question 5.4.2
- SOLAS Chapter III regulations 19 and 20
- IMO resolution MSC.402(96)
Last reviewed: 2026-09-13