Liferafts and hydrostatic release units
What is being checked
The inspector is checking whether the complete arrangement for liferafts, hydrostatic release units and launching appliances 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 liferafts, hydrostatic release units and launching appliances prepared for immediate use?
Follow the posted sequence and include manual release, float-free sequence, painter and weak-link function, embarkation and davit launch where fitted.
2What must be checked before release or deployment?
Verify container, lashings, weak link, painter, HRU orientation and expiry, embarkation arrangements, davit and deck-clearance path, personnel position, communications and the area into which the equipment will move.
3Show the maintenance and examination status.
Match physical identification to annual servicing, HRU replacement and davit-launched raft examination records.
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 wrong lashing, painter not connected, HRU reversed or expired, damaged container or obstructed float-free path.
Required evidence was overdue, incomplete or did not match the equipment: annual servicing, HRU replacement and davit-launched raft examination records.
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 manual release, float-free sequence, painter and weak-link function, embarkation and davit launch where fitted.
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 5.4.5
- SOLAS Chapter III regulations 13 and 20
- IMO LSA Code Chapter IV
Last reviewed: 2026-09-13