S.I. No. 380/1993:

MERCHANT SHIPPING (LIFE-SAVING APPLIANCES) RULES, 1993.

MERCHANT SHIPPING (LIFE-SAVING APPLIANCES) RULES, 1993.

ARRANGEMENT OF RULES

PART I--PRELIMINARY

Rule

1 Citation

2 Interpretation

3 Classification of ships

4 Application

PART II--PASSENGER SHIPS

5 Class I Passenger ships engaged on voyages (not being short international voyages) any of which are long international voyages

6 Class II Passenger ships engaged on voyages (not being long international voyages) any of which are short international voyages

Class II (A) Passenger ships (other than ships of Classes III to VI inclusive) engaged on voyages of any kind other than international voyages

PART III--SHIPS OTHER THAN PASSENGER SHIPS

PART IV--GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

12 Approval and replacement of life-saving appliances

13 Operational readiness, maintenance, inspections and servicing

14 Operating instructions for survival craft and their launching controls

15 Survival craft muster and embarkation arrangements

16 Stowage of survival craft, rescue boats and inflated boats

17 Launching stations

18 Survival craft launching arrangements

19 Marine Escape Systems

20 Rescue boat embarkation, launching and recovery arrangements

21 Stowage of lifebuoys

22 Stowage of lifejackets

23 Stowage of portable radio equipment

24 Stowage and packing of pyrotechnic distress signals

25 Immersion suits

26 Manning of survival craft

27 Equivalents and exemptions

SCHEDULES

No. of Schedule

S.I. No. 380 of 1993.

MERCHANT SHIPPING (LIFE-SAVING APPLIANCES) RULES, 1993

I, DAVID ANDREWS, Minister for the Marine, in exercise of the powers conferred on me by section 427 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1894 (as amended by section 11 of the Merchant Shipping (Safety Convention) Act, 1952 (No. 29 of 1952) and section 10 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1966 (No. 20 of 1966)), and the Communications (Transfer of Departmental Administration and Ministerial Functions) Order, 1987 ( S.I. No. 91 of 1987 ), hereby make the following Rules:--

PART I--PRELIMINARY

1. These Rules may be cited as the Merchant Shipping (Life-Saving Appliances) Rules, 1993, and shall come into operation on the 1st day of April, 1994.

2. (1) In these Rules

"buoyant lifeline" means a line complying with the requirements of Part V of the Ninth Schedule to these Rules;

"buoyant smoke signal" means a pyrotechnic signal complying with the requirements of Part III of the Eighth Schedule to these Rules;

"cargo ship" means any ship which is not a passenger ship, pleasure craft or fishing vessel;

"certificated person" means a member of the crew who holds either

( a ) a Certificate of Proficiency in Survival Craft under the Merchant Shipping (Certificates of Proficiency in Survival Craft) Regulations, 1984 ( S.I. No. 191 of 1984 ), or such certificate issued by or under the authority of any Government outside the State which is recognised by the Minister as being equivalent to a certificate issued under those Regulations; or

( b ) a Certificate of Efficiency as Lifeboatman issued before the 19th October, 1984, by or under the authority of the Minister or such certificate issued before the 19th October, 1984, by or under the authority of any Government outside the State which is recognised by the Minister as being the equivalent of such a certificate issued by or under the authority of the Minister.

"chemical tanker" means a cargo ship constructed or adapted and used for the carriage in bulk of any liquid product listed in either:

1. Chapter 17 of the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk adopted by the Maritime Safety Committee of the Organisation by Resolution MSC 4 (48); or

2. Chapter VI of the Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk adopted by the Assembly of the Organisation by Resolution A 212 (VII),

whichever is applicable;

"date of expiry" in relation to any product referred to in the Eighth and Ninth Schedules to these Rules means a date within three years from the date of manufacture of that product;

"detection" means the determination of the location of survivors or survival craft;

"embarkation ladder" means a ladder complying with the requirements of Part V of the Sixth Schedule to these Rules provided at survival craft embarkation stations to permit safe access to survival craft after launching;

"EPIRB" means an emergency position-indicating radio beacon, the emissions of which are intended to facilitate search and rescue operations;

"favourable weather" means fine, clear, settled weather with a sea state such as to cause only moderate rolling or pitching;

"fishing vessel" means a vessel which is for the time being used for or in connection with sea fishing but does not include a vessel used for fishing otherwise than for profit;

"float-free launching" means that method of launching a survival craft whereby the craft is automatically released from a sinking ship and is ready for use;

"free-fall launching" means that method of launching a survival craft whereby the craft with its complement of persons and equipment on board is released and allowed to fall into the sea without any restraining apparatus;

"gas carrier" means a cargo ship constructed or adapted and used for the carriage in bulk of any liquefied gas or other product listed in either:

1. Chapter 19 of the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk adopted by the Maritime Safety Committee of the Organisation by Resolution 5 (48); or

2. Chapter XIX of the Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships Carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk adopted by the Organisation by Resolution A 328 (IX),

whichever is applicable;

"general emergency alarm system" means a system complying with the requirements of the Thirteenth Schedule to these Rules;

"hand flare" means a pyrotechnic signal complying with the requirements of Part II of the Eighth Schedule to these Rules;

"immersion suit" means a protective suit which reduces the body heat-loss of a person wearing it in cold water and complies with the requirements of Part I of the Eleventh Schedule to these Rules;

"inflatable appliance" means an appliance which depends upon non-rigid, gas-filled chambers for buoyancy and which is normally kept uninflated until ready for use;

"inflated appliance" means an appliance which depends upon non-rigid, gas-filled chambers for buoyancy and which is kept inflated and ready for use at all times;

"inflated boat" means a boat complying with the requirements of the Third Schedule to these Rules and suitable for rescuing persons in distress and marshalling liferafts;

"instructions for on-board maintenance" means the instructions complying with the requirements of Part II of the Twelfth Schedule to these Rules;

"international voyage" means an international voyage within the meaning of the Merchant Shipping (Safety Convention) Act, 1952 (No. 29 of 1952);

"launching appliance or arrangement" means provisions complying with the requirements of Part I and Part II, III or IV of the Sixth Schedule to these Rules for safely transferring a lifeboat and rescue boat, liferaft or inflated boat, respectively, from its stowed position to the water;

"length" means length as defined in the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage) Regulations, 1984 ( S.I. No. 369 of 1984 );

"lifeboat radiotelegraph installation" means an installation complying with Regulation 13 of Chapter IV of the Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 as amended by Resolution MSC. 6 (48), adopted by the Maritime Safety Committee of the Organisation on 17 June, 1983;

"lifebuoy" except where otherwise expressly provided, means a lifebuoy complying with the requirements of Part I of the Ninth Schedule to these Rules;

"lifejacket" means a lifejacket complying with the requirements of Part I or II of the Tenth Schedule to these Rules;

"lifejacket light" means a light complying with the requirements of Part III of the Tenth Schedule to these Rules;

"liferaft" except as otherwise expressly provided, means a survival craft complying with the requirements of Part I or III of the Fourth Schedule to these Rules;

"Near continental trading area" means the area so defined in Schedule 2 to the Merchant Shipping (Certification of Deck Officers) Regulations, 1988 ( S.I. No. 368 of 1988 );

"line-throwing" appliance" means an appliance complying with the requirements of Part V of the Eighth Schedule to these Rules;

"long international voyage" means an international voyage which is not a short international voyage as defined in this Rule;

"marine escape system" means a system complying with the requirements of the Fifth Schedule to these Rules;

"marine notice" means a notice described as such, issued by the Department of the Marine;

"mile" means a nautical mile of 1,852 metres;

"the Minister" means the Minister for the Marine;

"moulded depth"

( a ) The moulded depth means the vertical distance measured from the top of the keel to the top of the freeboard deck beam at side. In wood and composite ships the distance is measured from the lower edge of the keel rabbet. Where the form at the lower part of the midship section is of a hollow character, or where thick garboards are fitted, the distance is measured from the point where the line of the flat of the bottom continued onwards cuts the side of the keel.

( b ) In ships having rounded gunwales, the moulded depth shall be measured to the point of intersection of the moulded lines of the deck and side shell plating, the lines extending as though the gunwale were of angular design.

( c ) Where the freeboard deck is stepped and the raised part of the deck extends over the point at which the moulded depth is to be determined, the moulded depth shall be measured to a line of reference extending from the lower part of the deck along a line parallel with the raised part;

"new ship" means a ship the keel of which is laid, or where construction identifiable with the ship begins, on or after 1st July, 1986, and in the latter case where assembly has commenced comprising at least 50 tonnes or 1 per cent. of the estimated mass of all structural material, whichever is less. A cargo ship, whenever built, which is converted to a passenger ship shall be treated as a passenger ship, the keel of which is laid or which is at a similar stage of construction on the date on which such a conversion commences;

"novel life-saving appliance or arrangement" means a life-saving appliance or arrangement which embodies new features not fully covered by the provisions of these Rules but which provides an equal or higher standard of safety and which stands for the time being approved of by the Minister;

"Organisation" means the International Maritime Organisation;

"partially smooth waters" means, as respects any period, weather or ship specified in the Fourteenth Schedule to these Rules, the waters of any of the areas specified in column 3 of that Schedule in relation to that period, weather or ship;

"passenger ship" means a ship carrying more than 12 passengers;

"person" means a person over the age of one year;

"pleasure craft" means a vessel (other than a passenger ship and ship engaged in trade) primarily used for sport or recreation;

"portable radio equipment" means an installation complying with Regulation 14 of Chapter IV of the Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 as amended by Resolution MSC. 6 (48) adopted by the Maritime Safety Committee of the Organisation on 17 June, 1983;

"radar transponder" means a radar transponder, for use in survival craft, the emissions of which are intended to facilitate location of a survival craft in search and rescue operations;

"rations" means rations complying with the requirements of Part III of the Seventh Schedule to these Rules;

"red star distress rocket signal" means a pyrotechnic signal complying with the requirements of Part IV of the Eighth Schedule to these Rules;

"rescue boat" means a boat complying with the requirements of Part I, II or III of the Second Schedule to these Rules and designed to rescue persons in distress and to marshal liferafts;

"rescue signal table" means an illustrated table of the life-saving signals described in the Merchant Ship Search and Rescue Manual (MERSAR) (resolution A.229 (VII) of the Organisation, as amended; publication IMO-963E) and the IMO Search and Rescue Manual (IMOSAR) (resolution A.439 (XI) of the Organisation, as amended; publication IMO-974E) and illustrated in the International Code of Signals (publication IMO-994E) as amended pursuant to resolution A.80 (IV) of the Organisation.

"restricted period" means a period falling wholly within the following limits:--

( a ) from 1st April to 31st October, both dates inclusive;

and

( b ) between 1 hour before sunrise and 1 hour after sunset in the case of ships fitted with navigation lights conforming to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972 and between sunrise and sunset in the case of any other ship;

"retrieval" means the safe recovery of survivors;

"retro-reflective material" means a material which reflects in the opposite direction a beam of light directed on it;

"rocket parachute flare" means a pyrotechnic signal complying with the requirements of Part I of the Eighth Schedule to these Rules;

"satellite EPIRB" means an emergency position-indicating radio beacon, being an earth station in the mobile-satellite service, the emissions of which are intended to facilitate search and rescue operations and is capable of:--

( a ) floating free if the ship sinks;

( b ) being automatically activated when afloat;

( c ) being manually activated; and

( d ) being carried by one person;

"sailing ship" includes a ship provided with sufficient sail area for navigation under sails alone whether or not fitted with mechanical means of propulsion;

"sea" does not include any partially smooth waters;

"self-activating smoke signal" means a signal complying with the requirements of Part IV of the Ninth Schedule to these Rules;

"self-igniting light" means a light complying with the requirements of Part III of the Ninth Schedule to these Rules;

"service space" includes galleys, pantries containing cooking appliances, lockers and storerooms, paint rooms, baggage rooms, workshops other than those forming part of machinery spaces, mail rooms and similar spaces and trunks to such spaces;

"ship constructed" means a ship of which the keel is laid or, where construction identifiable with the ship has begun, assembly has commenced comprising at least 50 tonnes or 1 per cent. of the estimated mass of all structural material, whichever is less;

"short international voyage" means a short international voyage within the meaning of the Merchant Shipping (Safety Convention) Act, 1952 (No. 29 of 1952);

"smooth waters" means any waters not being the sea or partially smooth waters and in particular means waters of any of the areas specified in column 2 of the Fourteenth Schedule to these Rules;

"survival craft" means a craft capable of sustaining the lives of persons in distress from the time of abandoning the ship;

"survival craft EPIRB" means an EPIRB, being a station in the Mobile service, for carriage in survival craft;

"tanker" means a cargo ship constructed or adapted for the carriage in bulk of liquid cargoes of a flammable nature and also means a chemical tanker and gas carrier constructed or adapted to carry cargoes emitting toxic vapours or gases, or cargoes having a flash point not exceeding 60 degrees celsius (closed cup test);

"thermal protective aid" means a bag or suit complying with the requirements of Part II of the Eleventh Schedule to these Rules and made of waterproof material with low thermal conductivity;

"tons" means gross tons and a reference to tons:

( a ) in relation to a ship having alternative gross tonnages under paragraph 12 of the Fourth Schedule to the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage) Regulations, 1984 ( S.I. No. 369 of 1984 ) is a reference to the larger of those tonnages; and

( b ) in relation to a ship having its tonnage determined both under Part II and Regulation 16 of those Regulations is a reference to its gross tonnage as determined under Regulation 16 of those Regulations;

"toxic vapours or gases" means the vapours or gases associated with products for which emergency escape, respiratory and eye protection is required in Chapter 17 of the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships carrying Dangerous Chemicals in Bulk adopted by the Maritime Safety Committee of the Organisation by Resolution MSC 4 (48) and in Chapter 19 of the International Code for the Construction and Equipment of Ships carrying Liquefied Gases in Bulk adopted by the Maritime Safety Committee of the Organisation by Resolution 5 (48);

"training manual" means a manual complying with the requirements of Part I of the Twelfth Schedule to these Rules;

"two-way radiotelephone set" means a portable two-way VHF radiotelephone apparatus or a fixed VHF installation in a survival craft for communication between survival craft, between survival craft and ship and between survival craft and rescue unit;

"voyage" includes an excursion;

"waterproofed" means protected as far as is practicable from the ingress of water.

(2) A reference to any of the Codes referred to in the definitions of "chemical tanker", "gas carrier" and "toxic vapours or gases" shall be a reference to that Code as amended from time to time by the Organisation in any document which is considered by the Minister to be relevant and is specified in a Marine Notice.

(3) In these Rules:

( a ) a reference to a numbered Rule is, unless otherwise stated, a reference to the Rule of that number in these Rules;

( b ) a reference in a Rule, Schedule or Part of a Schedule to a numbered paragraph is, unless otherwise stated, a reference to the paragraph of that number in that Rule, Schedule or Part of Schedule as the case may be; and

( c ) a reference to a numbered Schedule is a reference to the Schedule of that number to these Rules.

(4) Where a British Standard is referred to in these Rules, evidence of that standard may be produced in any Court of Justice and in all legal proceedings under these Rules by the production of a document purporting to be a copy of that standard published by or under the authority of the British Standard Institute.

3. For the purposes of these Rules ships shall be arranged in the following classes:--

Passenger Ships

Class I. Passenger ships engaged on voyages (not being short international voyages) any of which are long international voyages.

Class II. Passenger ships engaged on voyages (not being long international voyages) any of which are short international voyages.

Class IIA. Passenger ships (other than ships of Classes III to VI inclusive) engaged on voyages of any kind other than international voyages.

Class III. Passenger ships engaged only on voyages in the course of which they are at no time more than 70 miles by sea from their port of departure and not more than 18 miles from the coast of the State, and which are at sea only in favourable weather and during restricted periods.

Class IV. Passenger ships engaged only on voyages in partially smooth waters, or voyages in smooth and partially smooth waters.

Class V. Passenger ships engaged only on voyages in smooth waters.

Class VI. Passenger ships engaged only on voyages with not more than 250 passengers on board, to sea, or in smooth or in partially smooth waters, in all cases in favourable weather and during restricted periods, in the course of which the ships are at no time more than 15 miles, exclusive of any smooth waters, from their point of departure nor more than three miles from land.

Ships other than passenger ships

Class VII. Ships (other than ships of Classes I, VII(T), XI and XII) engaged on voyages any of which are long international voyages.

Class VII(T). Tankers engaged on voyages any of which are long international voyages.

Class VIII. Ships (other than ships of Classes II, VIII(T), IX, XI and XII) engaged on voyages (not being long international voyages) any of which are short international voyages.

Class VIII(T). Tankers engaged on voyages (not being long international voyages) any of which are short international voyages.

Class VIII(A). Ships (other than ships of Classes II(A) to VI inclusive, VIII(A)(T), IX, IX(A), IX(A)(T), XI and XII) engaged only on voyages which are not international voyages.

Class VIII(A)(T). Tankers engaged only on voyages which are not international voyages.

Class IX. Tugs and tenders (other than ships of Classes II, II(A), III and VI) which proceed to sea but are not engaged on long international voyages.

Class IX(A). Ships (other than ships of Classes IV to VI inclusive) which do not proceed to sea.

Class IX(A)(T). Tankers which do not proceed to sea.

Class XI. Sailing ships (other than ships of Class XII) which proceed to sea.

Class XII. Pleasure craft of 13.7 metres in length or over.

Application

4. These Rules apply to new ships registered in the State of Classes I, II, IIA, VII to XII inclusive, and to such ships registered outside the State while they are within the State or the territorial waters thereof, other than fishing vessels and pleasure craft of less than 13.7 metres in length:

Provided that these Rules shall not apply to a ship by reason of her being within a port in the State if she would not have been in any such port but for stress of weather or any other circumstances than neither the master nor the owner nor the chartered (if any) could have prevented;

PART II--PASSENGER SHIPS

5. (1) This Rule applies to new ships of Class I.

(2) Every such ship shall carry:--

( a ) on each side of the ship lifeboats complying with the requirements of Part II, III or IV of the First Schedule to these Rules of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate 50 per cent. of the total number of persons which the ship is certified to carry; or

( b ) lifeboats complying with the requirements of Part II, III or IV of the First Schedule to these Rules and liferafts together providing sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons which the ship is certified to carry, provided that there shall never be less than sufficient lifeboats on each side of the ship to accommodate 37½ per cent. of the total number of persons which the ship is certified to carry; the liferafts shall be served by launching appliances equally distributed on each side of the ship; and

( c ) in addition to the survival craft carried in compliance with (2) (a) or (2) (b) of this Rule, liferafts of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate 25 per cent. of the total number of persons which the ship is certified to carry; such liferafts shall be served by at least one launching appliance on each side of the ship which may be those carried in compliance with (2) (b) of this Rule or equivalent approved appliances capable of being used on both sides.

3. ( a ) Every such ship of less than 500 tons certified to carry less than 200 persons may in lieu of carrying the lifeboats and liferafts required by (2) (a) and (c) or (2) (b) and (c) of this Rule carry on each side of the ship liferafts of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons the ship is certified to carry. If such liferafts cannot be readily transferred for launching on either side of the ship additional liferafts shall be provided so that the total capacity available on each side of the ship will accommodate 150 per cent. of the total number of persons which the ship is certified to carry. Such liferafts shall be served by at least one launching appliance on each side of the ship.

( b ) If the rescue boat required by (4) (b) of this Rule is also a lifeboat complying with the requirements of Part II, III or IV of the First Schedule to these Rules it may be included in the aggregate capacity referred to in (3) (a) of this Rule provided that the total capacity available on either side of the ship is at least 150 per cent. of the total number of persons the ship is certified to carry.

( c ) The number and arrangement of survival craft shall be such that in the event of any one survival craft being lost or rendered unserviceable, there shall still be sufficient survival craft available for use on each side of the ship to accommodate the total number of persons the ship is certified to carry.

4. ( a ) Every such ship of 500 tons and over shall carry at least one rescue boat on each side of the ship.

( b ) Every such ship of less than 500 tons shall carry at least one rescue boat.

( c ) A lifeboat may be accepted as a rescue boat provided it also complies with the requirements for a rescue boat.

( d ) Every such ship shall carry sufficient lifeboats and rescue boats to ensure that in providing for abandonment by the total number of persons the ship is certified to carry, not more than six liferafts need to be marshalled by each lifeboat or rescue boat.

(5) Each lifeboat and rescue boat shall be served by its own launching appliance.

(6) ( a ) Every ship to which this Rule applies, constructed before 1st February, 1992, shall be provided with either the following equipment:--

ALTERNATIVE A

(i) survival craft radio equipment determined in accordance with the following table:

(ii) at least three waterproofed two-way radio-telephone sets of which at least one shall be portable, and

(iii) on each side of the ship, a survival craft EPIRB so stowed that it can be rapidly placed in any survival craft;

or

ALTERNATIVE B

(i) at least three waterproofed two-way radio-telephone sets of which at least one shall be portable, and

(ii) on each side of the ship, at least one radar transponder stowed in such location that it can be rapidly placed in any survival craft or, alternatively, one radar transponder stowed in each survival craft.

( b ) Notwithstanding ALTERNATIVE A as set out in (6) (a) of this Rule, every ship to which this Rule applies shall be provided with:--

(i) a satellite EPIRB, and

(ii) radar transponders as prescribed in ALTERNATIVE B (ii) on and after 1st February, 1995.

( c ) The two-way radiotelephone sets prescribed in ALTERNATIVES A (ii) and B (i) shall, on and after 1st February, 1999, comply fully with performance standards adopted by the Organisation contained in Resolution A.605 (15) of the Organisation or any Resolution amending or replacing it which is considered by the Minister to be relevant from time to time.

( d ) Every ship constructed on and after 1st February, 1992, shall be provided with:--

(i) The two-way radiotelephone sets prescribed in ALTERNATIVES A (ii) and B (i) complying fully with performance standards adopted by the Organisation contained in Resolution A.605 (15) of the Organisation or any Resolution amending or replacing it which is considered by the Minister to be relevant from time to time, and

(ii) the satellite EPIRB prescribed in (6) (b) (i) of this Rule.

(7) ( a ) Every such ship shall carry at least the number of lifebuoys determined in accordance with the following table:--

( b ) At least one Lifebuoy on each side of the ship shall be fitted with a buoyant lifeline. Not less than 50 per cent. of the total number of lifebuoys, and on every ship to which this Rule applies of less than 60 metres in length not less than six lifebuoys, shall be provided with self-igniting lights and not less than two of the lifebuoys provided with such lights shall also be provided with self-activating smoke signals and be capable of quick release from the navigating bridge.

(8) Every such ship shall carry:--

( a ) for each person the ship is certified to carry a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing 32 kilogrammes or more;

( b ) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing less than 32 kilogrammes, for each such person on board or for 10 per cent. of the number of passengers the ship is certified to carry whichever is the greater;

( c ) in addition to the lifejackets carried in compliance with (8) (a) and (b) of this Rule, lifejackets suitable for persons weighing 32 kilogrammes or more for not less than 5 per cent. of the total number of persons the ship is certified to carry; and

( d ) a sufficient number of lifejackets for persons on watch and for use at remotely located survival craft stations.

(9) Included in the number of lifejackets required to be carried by (8) of this Rule there shall be at least sufficient inflatable lifejackets which comply with the requirements of Part II of the Tenth Schedule to these Rules for the crew of each rescue boat and for those crew members whose emergency duties require a lifejacket which will not unduly hinder them during the execution of those duties.

(10) Each lifejacket required to be carried by (8) and (9) of this Rule shall be fitted with a lifejacket light.

(11) Every such ship shall carry an immersion suit of an appropriate size and as specified in Rule 25 of these Rules for every person assigned to crew a rescue boat.

(12) Every such ship shall carry not less than 12 rocket parachute flares.

(13) Every such ship shall carry a line-throwing appliance.

(14) Every such ship shall be provided with:--

( a ) an emergency means for two-way communication (which may be fixed or portable equipment or both) between emergency control stations, muster and embarkation stations and strategic positions on board;

( b ) a general emergency alarm system; and

( c ) lighting as specified in Rules 15 (4) and (5) and 18 (8) of these Rules.

(15) Every such ship shall be provided with:--

( a ) posters or signs showing operating instructions on or in the vicinity of survival craft and their launching controls;

( b ) a training manual in each crew messroom and recreation room or in each crew cabin;

( c ) instructions for on-board maintenance of life-saving appliances or a shipboard planned maintenance programme which includes the maintenance of life-saving appliances; and

( d ) on the bridge one copy of a rescue signal table for the time being approved by the Minister.

(16) ( a ) A public address system shall be provided on such ships which carry more than 20 passengers, as prescribed by the Merchant Shipping (Emergency Information for Passengers) Rules, 1992, ( S.I. No. 392 of 1992 ).

( b ) A public address system or some other suitable means shall be provided on such ships which carry more than twelve but not more than 20 passengers.

6. (1) This Rule applies to new ships of Classes II and II(A).

(2) Every such ship which is subdivided in accordance with the requirements of Part III of the First Schedule to the Merchant Shipping (Passenger Ship Construction and Survey) Rules, 1985 ( S.I. No. 274 of 1985 ), shall carry:--

( a ) lifeboats complying with the requirements of Parts II, III or IV of the First Schedule to these Rules of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate at least 30 per cent. of the total number of persons which the ship is certified to carry. Such lifeboats shall be equally distributed, as far as practicable, on each side of the ship; and

( b ) liferafts of sufficient aggregate capacity that together with the lifeboat capacity will accommodate the total number of persons which the ship is certified to carry; the liferafts shall be served by launching appliances equally distributed on each side of the ship.

(3) Every such ship which is not subdivided in accordance with the requirements of Part III of the First Schedule to the Merchant Shipping (Passenger Ship Construction and Survey) Rules, 1985, shall carry:--

( a ) on each side of the ship lifeboats complying with the requirements of Part II, III or IV of the First Schedule to these Rules of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate at least 50 per cent. of the total number of persons which the ship is certified to carry; or

( b ) lifeboats complying with the requirements of Part II, III or IV of the First Schedule to these Rules and liferafts together providing sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons which the ship is certified to carry, provided that there shall never be less than sufficient lifeboats on each side of the ship to accommodate 37½ per cent. of the total number of persons which the ship is certified to carry; the liferafts shall be served by launching appliances equally distributed on each side of the ship.

(4) In addition to the survival craft carried in compliance with (2) or (3) of this Rule every ship to which this Rule applies shall carry liferafts of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate 25 per cent. of the total number of persons which the ship is certified to carry. These liferafts shall be served by at least one launching appliance on each side of the ship which may be those carried in compliance with (2) (b) or 3 (b) of this Rule, or equivalent approved appliances capable of being used on both sides.

(5) ( a ) Every such ship of less than 500 tons certified to carry less than 200 persons may in lieu of carrying the lifeboats and liferafts required by (2) and (4) or (3) and (4) of this Rule carry on each side of the ship liferafts of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons the ship is certified to carry. If such liferafts cannot be readily transferred for launching on either side of the ship additional liferafts shall be provided so that the total capacity available on each side will accommodate 150 per cent. of the total number of persons which the ship is certified to carry. Such liferafts shall be served by at least one launching appliance on each side of the ship.

( b ) If the rescue boat required by (6) (b) of this Rule is also a lifeboat complying with the requirements of Part II, III or IV of the First Schedule to these Rules it may be included in the aggregate capacity referred to in (5) (a) of this Rule provided that the total capacity available on either side of the ship is at least 150 per cent. of the total number of persons the ship is certified to carry.

( c ) The number and arrangement of survival craft shall be such that in the event of any one survival craft being lost or rendered unserviceable, there shall still be sufficient survival craft available for use on each side of the ship to accommodate the total number of persons the ship is certified to carry.

(6) ( a ) Every such ship of 500 tons and over shall carry at least one rescue boat on each side of the ship.

( b ) Every such ship of less than 500 tons shall carry at least one rescue boat.

( c ) A lifeboat may be acceptable as a rescue boat provided it also complies with the requirements for a rescue boat.

( d ) Every such ship which is subdivided in accordance with the requirements of Part III of the First Schedule to the Merchant Shipping (Passenger Ship Construction and Survey) Rules, 1985 ( S.I. No. 274 of 1985 ), shall carry sufficient lifeboats and rescue boats to ensure that in providing for abandonment by the total number of persons the ship is certified to carry, not more than nine liferafts need to be marshalled by each lifeboat or rescue boat and every ship which is not so subdivided shall be so equipped that not more than six liferafts need to be marshalled by each lifeboat or rescue boat.

(7) Each lifeboat and rescue boat shall be served by its own launching appliance.

(8) ( a ) Every ship to which this Rule applies, constructed before 1st February, 1992, shall be provided with either the following equipment:--

ALTERNATIVE A

(i) portable radio equipment; this equipment shall not be required if a lifeboat radiotelephone installation is fitted in a lifeboat on each side of the ship or if the ship is engaged on voyages of such duration that in the opinion of the Minister portable radio equipment is unnecessary;

(ii) at least three waterproofed two-way radiotelephone sets of which at least one shall be portable, and

(iii) on each side of the ship, a survival craft EPIRB so stowed that it can be rapidly placed in any survival craft;

or

ALTERNATIVE B

(i) at least three waterproofed two-way radiotelephone sets of which at least one shall be portable, and

(ii) on each side of the ship, at least one radar transponder stowed in such location that it can be rapidly placed in any survival craft or, alternatively, one radar transponder stowed in each survival craft.

( b ) Notwithstanding ALTERNATIVE A as set out in (8) (a) of this Rule, every ship to which this Rule applies shall be provided with:--

(i) a satellite EPIRB prescribed in (8) (b) (i) of this Rule, and

(ii) radar transponders as prescribed in ALTERNATIVE B (ii) on and after 1st February, 1995.

( c ) The two-way radiotelephone sets prescribed in ALTERNATIVES A (ii) and B (i) shall, on and after 1st February, 1999, comply fully with performance standards adopted by the Organisation contained in Resolution A.605 (15) of the Organisation or any Resolution amending or replacing it which is considered by the Minister to be relevant from time to time.

( d ) Every ship constructed on and after 1st February, 1992 shall be provided with:--

(i) The two-way radiotelephone sets prescribed in ALTERNATIVES A (ii) and B (ii) complying fully with performance standards adopted by the Organisation contained in Resolution A.605 (15) of the Organisation or any Resolution amending or replacing it which is considered by the Minister to be relevant from time to time, and

(ii) the satellite EPIRB prescribed in (8) (b) (i) of this Rule.

(9) ( a ) Every such ship shall carry at least the number of lifebuoys determined in accordance with the following table:--

( b ) At least one lifebuoy on each side of the ship shall be fitted with a buoyant lifeline. Not less than 50 per cent. of the total number of lifebuoys, and on every ship to which this Rule applies of less than 60 metres in length not less than six lifebuoys, shall be provided with self-igniting lights and not less than two of the lifebuoys provided with such lights shall also be provided with self-activating smoke signals and be capable of quick release from the navigating bridge.

(10) Every such ship shall carry:--

( a ) for each person the ship is certified to carry a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing 32 kilogrammes or more;

( b ) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing less than 32 kilogrammes, for each such person on board or for 10 per cent. of the number of passengers the ship is certified to carry whichever is the greater;

( c ) in addition to the lifejackets carried in compliance with (10) (a) and (b) of this Rule lifejackets suitable for persons weighing 32 kilogrammes or more for not less than 5 per cent. of the total number of persons the ship is certified to carry; and

( d ) a sufficient number of lifejackets for persons on watch and for use at remotely located survival craft stations.

(11) Included in the number of lifejackets required to be carried by (10) of this Rule there shall be at least sufficient inflatable lifejackets which comply with the requirements of Part II of the Tenth Schedule to these Rules for the crew of each rescue boat and for those crew members whose emergency duties require a lifejacket which will not unduly hinder them during the execution of those duties.

(12) Every such ship shall carry an immersion suit of an appropriate size and as specified in Rule 25 of these Rules for every person assigned to crew a rescue boat.

(13) Every such ship shall carry not less than 12 rocket parachute flares.

(14) Every such ship shall carry a line-throwing appliance.

(15) Every such ship shall be provided with:--

( a ) a general emergency alarm system; and

( b ) lighting as specified in Rule 15 (4) and (5) and 18 (8) of these Rules.

(16) Every such ship shall be provided with:

( a ) posters or signs showing operating instructions, on or in the vicinity of survival craft and their launching controls;

( b ) a training manual in each crew messroom and recreation room or in each crew cabin;

( c ) instructions for on-board maintenance of life-saving appliances or a shipboard planned maintenance programme which includes the maintenance of life-saving appliances; and

( d ) on the bridge one copy of a rescue signal table for the time being approved by the Minister.

(17) ( a ) A public address system shall be provided on such ships which carry more than 20 passengers, as prescribed in the Merchant Shipping (Emergency Information for Passengers) Rules, 1992, ( S.I. No. 392 of 1992 ).

( b ) A public address system or some other suitable means shall be provided on such ships which carry more than twelve but not more than 20 passengers.

PART III --SHIPS OTHER THAN PASSENGERS SHIPS

7. (1) This Rule applies to new ships of Classes VII, VIII, VIII(A) and IX.

(2) Every such ship shall carry:--

( a ) on each side of the ship one or more lifeboats complying with the requirements of Part IV of the First Schedule to these Rules of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board provided that the Minister may permit the carriage of lifeboats complying with the requirements of Part III of the said First Schedule to the Rules in lieu of Part IV on ships operating solely under favourable climatic conditions and in suitable areas; and

( b ) one or more liferafts capable of being launched on either side of the ship and of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board; if the liferaft or liferafts cannot be readily transferred for launching on either side of the ship, the total capacity available on each side shall be sufficient to accommodate the total number of persons on board.

(3) In lieu of complying with the requirements of (2) of this Rule such ships may carry:--

( a ) one or more lifeboats complying with the requirements of Part IV of the First Schedule to these Rules capable of free fall launching over the stern of the ship of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board; and

( b ) on each side of the ship one or more liferafts of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board. The liferafts on at least one side of the ship shall be served by launching appliances.

(4) ( a ) Every ship of less than 85 metres in length may in lieu of carrying the lifeboats and liferafts required by (2) or (3) of this Rule carry on each side of the ship one or more liferafts of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board.

( b ) If such liferafts cannot be readily transferred for launching on either side of the ship, the total capacity available on each side shall be sufficient to accommodate 150 per cent. of the total number of persons on board.

( c ) If the rescue boat required by (6) of this Rule is also a lifeboat complying with the requirements of Part III or IV of the First Schedule it may be included in the aggregate capacity referred to in (4) (a) of this Rule provided that the total capacity available on either side of the ship is at least 150 per cent. of the total number of persons on board.

( d ) The number and arrangement of survival craft shall be such that in the event of any one survival craft being lost or rendered unserviceable, there shall still be sufficient survival craft available for use on each side of the ship to accommodate the total number of persons on board.

(5) Every such ship where survival craft are stowed in a position which is more than 100 metres from the stem or stern shall carry, in addition to the liferafts required by (2) (b) or (3) (b) of this Rule a liferaft stowed as far forward or aft, or one as far forward and another as far aft, as is reasonable and practicable.

(6) Every such ship of 500 tons or over shall carry at least one rescue boat. Every such ship of less than 500 tons shall carry at least one rescue boat, or inflated boat fitted with an engine. A lifeboat may be accepted as a rescue boat provided that it also complies with the requirements for a rescue boat.

(7) Each lifeboat, rescue boat and inflated boat shall be served by its own launching appliance.

(8) Every tug of Class IX other than a tug of 500 tons or over engaged on an international voyage shall in addition to complying with the requirements of (2), (3) or (4) of this Rule, and with the requirements of (6) of this Rule, carry buoyant apparatus complying with the requirements of the Tenth Schedule to the Merchant Shipping (Life-Saving Appliances) Rules, 1983 ( S.I. No. 302 of 1983 ), sufficient to support the total number of persons on board.

(9) ( a ) Every ship to which this Rule applies, constructed before 1st February, 1992, shall be provided with either the following equipment:--

ALTERNATIVE A

(i) portable radio equipment; this equipment shall not be required if a lifeboat radiotelephone installation is fitted in a lifeboat on each side of the ship or if the ship is engaged on voyages of such duration that in the opinion of the Minister portable radio equipment is unnecessary.

(ii) at least three waterproofed two-way radiotelephone sets of which at least one shall be portable, and

(iii) on each side of the ship, a survival craft EPIRB so stowed that it can be rapidly placed in any survival craft;

or

ALTERNATIVE B

(i) in the case of a ship of 500 tons and over, at least three waterproofed two-way radiotelephone sets of which at least one shall be portable and in the case of a ship of under 500 tons, at least two waterproofed radiotelephone sets of which at least one shall be portable, and

(ii) in the case of a ship of 500 tons or over, on each side of the ship at least one radar transponder, and in the case of a ship under 500 tons at least one radar transponder. Each radar transponder shall be stowed in such a location that it can be rapidly placed in any survival craft other than that required by (5) of this Rule or alternatively, one radar transponder shall be stowed in each survival craft other than that required by paragraph (5).

( b ) Notwithstanding ALTERNATIVE A as set out in (9) (a) of this Rule, every ship to which this Rule applies shall be provided with:--

(i) a satellite EPIRB, and

(ii) a radar transponder or radar transponders as prescribed in ALTERNATIVE B (ii) on and after 1st February, 1995.

( c ) The two-way radiotelephone sets prescribed in ALTERNATIVES A (ii) and B (i) shall, on and after 1st February, 1999, comply fully with performance standards adopted by the Organisation contained in Resolution A.605 (15) of the Organisation or any Resolution amending or replacing it which is considered by the Minister to be relevant from time to time.

( d ) Every ship constructed on and after 1st February, 1992 shall be provided with:--

(i) The two-way radiotelephone sets prescribed in ALTERNATIVES A (ii) and B (ii) complying fully with performance standards adopted by the Organisation contained in Resolution A.605 (15) of the Organisation or any Resolution amending or replacing it which is considered by the Minister to be relevant from time to time, and

(ii) the satellite EPIRB prescribed in (9) (b) (i) of this Rule.

(10) ( a ) Every such ship shall carry at least the number of lifebuoys determined in accordance with the following table:--

provided that in ships under 100 metres in length and less than 500 tons, not more than four lifebuoys need to be carried.

( b ) At least one lifebuoy on each side of the ship shall be fitted with a buoyant lifeline. Not less than 50 per cent. of the total number of lifebuoys shall be provided with self-igniting lights and not less than two of the lifebuoys provided with such lights shall also be provided with self-activating smoke signals and be capable of quick release from the navigating bridge.

(11) Every such ship shall carry:--

( a ) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing 32 kilogrammes or more for each person on board;

( b ) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing less than 32 kilogrammes for each such person on board provided that there shall never be less than two such lifejackets on any ship which ever carries children; and

( c ) a sufficient number of lifejackets for persons on watch and for use at remotely located survival craft stations provided that there shall be at least four additional lifejackets on ships where the number on board is 16 or less and at least an additional 25 per cent. of the number of lifejackets required to be carried by (11) (a) of this Rule in the case of ships where the number on board is more than 16, but provided that the number of additional lifejackets need not exceed the number of persons on board.

(12) Included in the number of lifejackets required by (11) of this Rule to be carried there shall be at least sufficient inflatable lifejackets which comply with the requirements of Part II of the Tenth Schedule to these Rules for the crew members of the rescue boat and for those crew members whose emergency duties require a lifejacket which will not unduly hinder them during the execution of these duties.

(13) Each lifejacket required by (11) and (12) of this Rule to be carried shall be fitted with a lifejacket light.

(14) Every such ship shall carry an immersion suit of an appropriate size and as specified in Rule 25 of these Rules for every person assigned to crew the rescue boat or inflated boat.

(15) ( a ) Every such ship which carries survival craft as prescribed in (4) (a) of this Rule shall carry an immersion suit as specified in Rule 25 of these Rules for every person on board unless:--

(i) the liferafts are served by launching appliances; or

(ii) the liferafts are served by equivalent approved appliances capable of being used on both sides of the ship and which do not require entry into the water to board the liferaft; or

(iii) the ship is constantly engaged on voyages between the parallels of latitude of 20 degrees north and south.

( b ) The immersion suits required by (15) of this Rule may be used to comply with the requirements of (14) of this Rule.

(16) Every such ship shall carry not less than 12 rocket parachute flares.

(17) Every such ship of 12 metres in length and over shall carry a line-throwing appliance.

(18) Every such ship shall be provided with:--

( a ) an emergency means for two-way communications (which may be fixed or portable equipment or both) between emergency control stations, muster and embarkation stations and strategic positions on board;

( b ) a general emergency alarm system except that in ships of less than 45.7 metres in length the additional electrically operated means referred to in paragraph 1 of the Thirteenth Schedule to these Rules need not be provided; in addition, in ships of 500 tons or over either a public address system or other suitable means of communication; and

( c ) lighting as specified in Rules 15 (4) and (5) and 18 (8), of these Rules provided that in ships of less than 500 tons such lighting need only be provided from one source of electrical power.

(19) Every such ship shall be provided with:--

( a ) posters or signs showing operating instructions in the vicinity of survival craft and their launching controls;

( b ) a training manual in each crew messroom and recreation room or in each crew cabin;

( c ) instructions for on-board maintenance of life-saving appliances or a shipboard planned maintenance programme which includes the maintenance of life-saving appliances; and

( d ) on the bridge one copy of a rescue signal table for the time being approved by the Minister.

8. (1) This Rule applies to new ships of Classes VII(T), VIII(T) and VIII(A)(T).

(2) Every such ship carrying cargo emitting toxic vapours or gases shall carry on each side of the ship one or more lifeboats complying with the requirements of Part V of the First Schedule to these Rules of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board.

(3) Every such ship carrying cargo having a flashpoint not exceeding 60 degrees celsius (closed cup test) shall carry on each side of the ship one or more lifeboats complying with the requirements of Part VI of the First Schedule to these Rules of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board.

(4) Every such ship shall carry in addition to the lifeboats required by (2) or (3) of this Rule, one or more liferafts capable of being launched on either side of the ship and of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board. If the liferaft or liferafts cannot be readily transferred for launching on either side of the ship, the total capacity available on each side shall be sufficient to accommodate the total number of persons on board.

(5) In lieu of complying with the requirements of (2) and (4) of this Rule such ships carrying cargoes emitting toxic vapours or gases may carry:--

( a ) one or more lifeboats complying with the requirements of Part V of the First Schedule to these Rules capable of free-fall launching over the stern of the ship of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board; and

( b ) one or more liferafts on each side of the ship of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board. The liferafts on at least one side of the ship shall be served by launching appliances.

(6) In lieu of complying with the requirements of (3) and (4) of this Rule such ships carrying cargoes having a flashpoint not exceeding 60 degrees celsius (closed cup test) may carry:--

( a ) one or more lifeboats complying with the requirements of Part VI of the First Schedule to these Rules capable of free-fall launching over the stern of the ship of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board; and

( b ) one of more liferafts on each side of the ship of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board. The liferafts on at least one side of the ship shall be served by launching appliances.

(7) ( a ) Every such ship of less than 500 tons may in lieu of carrying the lifeboats and liferafts required by (2) and (4), (3) and (4), and (5) or (6) of this Rule carry one of more liferafts on each side of the ship of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board.

( b ) If such liferafts cannot be readily transferred for launching on either side of the ship, the total capacity available on each side shall be sufficient to accommodate 150 per cent. of the total number of persons on board.

( c ) If the rescue boat required by (9) of this Rule is also a lifeboat complying with the requirements of Parts V or VI of the First Schedule to these Rules it may be included in the aggregate capacity referred to in (7) (a) of this Rule, provided that the total capacity available on either side of the ship is at least 150 per cent. of the total number of persons on board.

( d ) The number and arrangement of survival craft shall be such that in the event of any one survival craft being lost or rendered unserviceable, there shall still be sufficient survival craft available for use on each side of the ship to accommodate the total number of persons on board.

(8) Every such ship where survival craft are stowed in a position which is more than 100 metres from the stem or stern shall carry, in addition to the liferafts required by (4), (5) (b) or (6) (b) of this Rule, a liferaft stowed as far forward or aft as is reasonable and practicable.

(9) Every such ship of 500 tons or over shall carry at least one rescue boat. Every such ship of less than 500 tons shall carry at least one rescue boat, or inflated boat fitted with an engine. A lifeboat may be accepted as a rescue boat provided that it also complies with the requirements for a rescue boat.

(10) Each lifeboat, rescue boat and inflated boat shall be served by its own launching appliance.

(11) ( a ) Every ship to which this Rule applies, constructed before 1st February, 1992, shall be provided with either the following equipment:--

ALTERNATIVE A

(i) portable radio equipment; this equipment shall not be required if a lifeboat radio-telephone installation is fitted in a lifeboat on each side of the ship or if the ship is engaged on voyages of such duration that in the opinion of the Minister portable radio equipment is unnecessary,

(ii) at least three waterproofed two-way radio-telephone sets of which at least one shall be portable, and

(iii) on each side of the ship, a survival craft EPIRB so stowed that it can be readily placed in any survival craft;

or

ALTERNATIVE B

(i) in the case of a ship of 500 tons and over, at least three waterproofed two-way radio-telephone sets of which at least one shall be portable and in the case of a ship of under 500 tons, at least two waterproofed radio-telephone sets of which at least one shall be portable, and

(ii) in the case of a ship of 500 tons or over, on each side of the ship at least one radar transponder, and in the case of a ship under 500 tons at least one radar transponder. Each radar transponder shall be stowed in such a location that it can be rapidly placed in any survival craft other than that required by (8) of this Rule, or alternatively, one radar transponder shall be stowed in each survival craft other than that required by (8) of this Rule.

( b ) Notwithstanding ALTERNATIVE A as set out in (11) (a) of this Rule, every ship to which this Rule applies shall be provided with:--

(i) a satellite EIPRB, and

(ii) a radar transponder or radar transponders as prescribed in ALTERNATIVE B (ii) on and after 1st February, 1995.

( c ) The two-way radiotelephone sets prescribed in ALTERNATIVES A (ii) and B (i) shall, on and after 1st February, 1999, comply fully with performance standards adopted by the Organisation contained in Resolution A.605 (15) of the Organisation or any Resolution amending or replacing it which is considered by the Minister to be relevant from time to time.

( d ) Every ship constructed on and after 1st February, 1992 shall be provided with:--

(i) The two-way radiotelephone sets prescribed in ALTERNATIVES A (ii) and B (i) complying fully with performance standards adopted by the Organisation contained in Resolution A.605 (15) of the Organisation or any Resolution amending or replacing it which is considered by the Minister to be relevant from time to time, and

(ii) the satellite EPIRB prescribed in (11) (b) (i) of this Rule.

(12) ( a ) Every such ship shall carry at least the number of lifebuoys determined in accordance with the following table:

provided that in ships under 100 metres in length and less than 500 tons, not more than four lifebuoys need be carried.

( b ) At least one lifebuoy on each side of the ship shall be fitted with a buoyant lifeline. Not less than 50 per cent. of the total number of lifebuoys shall be provided with self-igniting lights of an electric battery type and not less than two of the lifebuoys provided with such lights shall also be provided with self-activating smoke signals and be capable of quick release from the navigating bridge.

(13) Every such ship shall carry:--

( a ) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing 32 kilogrammes or more for each person on board;

( b ) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing less than 32 kilogrammes for each such person on board provided that there shall never be less than two such lifejackets on any ship which ever carries children; and

( c ) a sufficient number of lifejackets for persons on watch and for use at remotely located survival craft stations provided that there shall be at least 4 additional lifejackets on ships where the number on board is 16 or less and at least an additional 25 per cent. of the number of lifejackets required to be carried by (13) (a) of this Rule, in the case of ships where the number on board is more than 16, but provided that the number of additional lifejackets need not exceed the number of persons on board.

(14) Included in the number of lifejackets required by (13) of this Rule, to be carried there shall be at least sufficient inflatable lifejackets which comply with the requirements of Part II of the Tenth Schedule to these Rules for the crew of the rescue boat and for those crew members whose emergency duties require a lifejacket which will not unduly hinder them during the execution of those duties.

(15) Each lifejacket required by (13) and (14) of this Rule, to be carried shall be fitted with a lifejacket light.

(16) Every such ship shall carry an immersion suit of an appropriate size and as specified in Rule 25 of these Rules for every person assigned to crew the rescue boat or inflated boat.

(17) ( a ) Every such ship which carries survival craft as prescribed in (7) (a) of this Rule, shall carry an immersion suit as specified in Rule 25 of these Rules for every person on board unless:--

(i) the liferafts are served by launching appliances; or

(ii) the liferafts are served by equivalent approved appliances capable of being used on both sides of the ship and which do not require entry into the water to board the liferaft; or

(iii) the ship is constantly engaged on voyages between the parallels of latitude of 20 degrees north and south.

( b ) The immersion suits required by (17) of this Rule, may be used to comply with the requirements of (16) of this Rule.

(18) Every such ship shall carry not less than 12 rocket parachute flares.

(19) Every such ship shall carry a line-throwing appliance.

(20) Every such ship shall be provided with:--

( a ) an emergency means for two-way communication (which may be fixed or portable equipment or both) between emergency control stations, muster and embarkation stations and strategic positions on board;

( b ) a general emergency alarm system except that in ships of less than 45.7 metres in length the additional electrically operated means referred to in paragraph 1 of the Thirteenth Schedule to these Rules need not be provided;

( c ) in addition in ships of 500 tons or over either a public address system or other suitable means of communication; and

( d ) lighting as specified in Rules 15 (4) and (5) and 18 (8) of these Rules provided that in ships of less than 500 tons such lighting need only be provided from one source of electrical power.

(21) Every such ship shall be provided with:--

( a ) posters or signs showing operating instructions on or in the vicinity of survival craft and their launching controls;

( b ) a training manual in each crew messroom and recreation room or in each crew cabin;

( c ) instructions for on-board maintenance of life-saving appliances or a shipboard planned maintenance programme which includes the maintenance of life-saving appliances; and

( d ) on the bridge one copy of a rescue signal table for the time being approved by the Minister.

9. (1) This Rule applies to new ships of Classes IX(A) and IX(A)(T).

(2) Every such ship shall when in smooth waters carry equipment appropriate to its length as follows:--

( a ) Ships of less than 12 metres in length shall carry either one lifebuoy complying with Part I of the Ninth Schedule to these Rules for each two persons on board or one lifebuoy complying with Part II of the said Ninth Schedule for each person provided that at least two lifebuoys are carried and that all lifebuoys carried are the same type. One lifebuoy shall be fitted with a buoyant lifeline at least 18 metres in length and one lifebuoy with a self-igniting light and self-activating smoke signal.

( b ) Ships of 12 metres in length and over but less than 200 metres in length shall carry:--

(i) one lifebuoy for each two persons on board provided that at least two lifebuoys are carried; one lifebuoy shall be fitted with a buoyant lifeline at least 18 metres in length and one lifebuoy with a self-igniting light and self-activating smoke signal;

(ii) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing 32 kilogrammes or more for each person on board; and

(iii) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing less than 32 kilogrammes for each such person on board.

( c ) Ships of 20 metres in length and over shall carry:--

(i) one lifebuoy for each two persons on board provided that at least four lifebuoys are carried; one lifebuoy on each side of the ship shall be fitted with a buoyant lifeline and one lifebuoy on each side of the ship with a self-igniting light and self-activating smoke signal;

(ii) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing 32 kilogrammes or more for each person on board; and

(iii) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing less than 32 kilogrammes for each such person on board.

( d ) In ships of Class IX(A)(T) lifebuoy self-igniting lights shall be of an electric battery type.

(3) Every such ship shall when in partially smooth waters carry equipment appropriate to its length as follows:--

( a ) Ships of less than 12 metres in length shall carry:--

(i) either one lifebuoy complying with Part I of the Ninth Schedule to these Rules for each two persons on board or one lifebuoy complying with Part II of the said Schedule for each person provided that at least two lifebuoys are carried and that all lifebuoys are of the same type; one lifebuoy shall be fitted with a buoyant lifeline at least 18 metres in length and one lifebuoy with a self-igniting light and self-activating smoke signal; and

(ii) six red star distress rocket signals.

( b ) Ships of 12 metres in length and over but less than 20 metres in length shall carry:--

(i) one or more liferafts complying with the requirements of Part I, II or III of the Fourth Schedule to these Rules of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board; if the liferaft or liferafts cannot be readily transferred for launching on either side of the ship, the total capacity available on each side shall be sufficient to accommodate the total number of persons on board;

(ii) two lifebuoys, one of which shall be fitted with a buoyant lifeline at least 18 metres in length and the other with a self-igniting light and self-activating smoke signal;

(iii) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing 32 kilogrammes or more for each person on board;

(iv) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing less than 32 kilogrammes for each such person on board; and

(v) six red star distress rocket signals.

( c ) Ships of 20 metres in length and over shall carry:--

(i) one or more liferafts complying with the requirements of Part I, II or III of the Fourth Schedule to these Rules of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board; if the liferaft or liferafts cannot be readily transferred for launching on either side of the ship the total capacity available on each side of the ship shall be sufficient to accommodate the total number of persons on board;

(ii) four lifebuoys, two of which shall be fitted with buoyant lifelines and two with self-igniting lights and self-activating smoke signals;

(iii) a life jacket suitable for a person weighing 32 kilogrammes or more for each such person on board; and

(iv) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing less than 32 kilogrammes for each such person on board; and

(v) six red star distress rocket signals.

( d ) In ships of Class IX(A)(T) lifebuoy self-igniting lights shall be of an electric battery type.

(4) Every tug to which (2) and (3) of this Rule apply shall in addition to the equipment required by this Rule carry buoyant apparatus complying with the requirements of the Tenth Schedule to the Merchant Shipping (Life-Saving Appliances) Rules, 1983 ( S.I. No. 302 of 1983 ), of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board.

(5) Every such ship to which (3) (b), (c) and (4) of this Rule apply shall be provided with:--

( a ) lighting as specified in Rules 15 (4) and (5) and 18 (8) of these Rules provided from at least one source of electrical power;

( b ) posters and signs showing operating instructions on or in the vicinity of the liferafts and their launching controls where provided;

( c ) a training manual; and

( d ) instructions for on-board maintenance of life-saving appliances or a shipboard planned maintenance programme which includes the maintenance of life-saving appliances.

10. (1) This Rule applies to new ships of Class XI.

(2) Every such ship shall carry:--

( a ) one or more liferafts on each side of the ship of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board provided that:--

(i) if the liferafts cannot be readily transferred for launching on either side of the ship, the total capacity available on each side of the ship shall be sufficient to accommodate 150 per cent. of the total number of persons on board;

(ii) if the rescue boat required by (2) (b) of this Rule is also a lifeboat complying with the requirements of Part II, III or IV of the First Schedule to these Rules it may be included in the aggregate capacity referred to in (2) (a) of this Rule, provided the total capacity available on either side of the ship is at least 150 per cent. of the total number of persons on board; and

(iii) the number and arrangement of survival craft shall be such that in the event of any one survival craft being lost or rendered unserviceable, there shall still be sufficient survival craft available for use on each side of the ship to accommodate the total number of persons on board.

( b ) at least one rescue boat, provided that in ships of less than 500 tons an inflated boat fitted with an engine may be carried in lieu of a rescue boat; a lifeboat may be accepted as a rescue boat provided that it also complies with the requirements for a rescue boat. The lifeboat, rescue boat or inflated boat shall be served by its own launching appliance.

(3) ( a ) Every ship to which this Rule applies, constructed before 1st February, 1992, shall be provided with either the following equipment:--

ALTERNATIVE A

(i) at least three waterproofed two-way radio-telephone sets of which at least one shall be portable, and

(ii) on each side of the ship, a survival craft EPIRB so stowed that it can be rapidly placed in any survival craft;

or

ALTERNATIVE B

(i) in the case of a ship of 500 tons and over, at least three waterproofed two-way radio-telephone sets of which at least one shall be portable and in the case of a ship of under 500 tons, at least two waterproofed radio-telephone sets of which at least one shall be portable, and

(ii) in the case of a ship of 500 tons or over, on each side of the ship at least one radar transponder, and in the case of a ship under 500 tons at least one radar transponder. Each radar transponder shall be stowed in such a location that it can be rapidly placed in any survival craft other than that required by (8) of this Rule or alternatively, one radar transponder shall be stowed in each survival craft other than that required by (8) of this Rule.

( b ) Notwithstanding ALTERNATIVE A set out in (3) (a) of this Rule, every ship to which this Rule applies shall be provided with:--

(i) a satellite EPIRB, and

(ii) a radar transponder or radar transponders as prescribed in ALTERNATIVE B (ii) on and after 1st February, 1995.

( c ) The two-way radiotelephone sets prescribed in ALTERNATIVES A (i) and B (i) shall, on and after 1st February, 1999, comply fully with performance standards adopted by the Organisation contained in Resolution A.605 (15) of the Organisation or any Resolution amending or replacing it which is considered by the Minister to be relevant from time to time.

( d ) Every ship constructed on and after 1st February, 1992 shall be provided with:--

(i) The two-way radiotelephone sets prescribed in ALTERNATIVES A (i) and B (i) complying fully with performance standards adopted by the Organisation contained in Resolution A.605 (15) of the Organisation any Resolution amending or replacing it which is considered by the Minister to be relevant from time to time, and

(ii) the satellite EPIRB prescribed in 3 (b) (i) of this Rule.

(4) ( a ) Every such ship shall carry at least the number of lifebuoys determined in accordance with the following table:

( b ) Ships of less than 12 metres in length may carry in lieu of lifebuoys complying with Part I of the Ninth Schedule to these Rules lifebuoys complying with Part II of the said Schedule provided that all lifebuoys carried are of the same type.

( c ) At least one lifebuoy on each side of the ship shall be fitted with a buoyant lifeline. Not less than 50 per cent. of the total number of lifebuoys shall be provided with self-igniting lights and not less than two of the lifebuoys provided with such lights shall also be provided with self-activating smoke signals and be capable of quick release from the navigating bridge or steering position. On ships of less than 12 metres in length the buoyant lifelines shall be at least 18 metres in length.

(5) Every such ship shall carry:--

( a ) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing 32 kilogrammes or more for each person on board;

( b ) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing less than 32 kilogrammes for each such person on board provided that there shall never be less than two such lifejackets on any ship which ever carries children;

( c ) a sufficient number of lifejackets for persons on watch and for use at remotely located survival craft stations provided that there shall be at least four additional lifejackets on ships where the number on board is 16 or less and at least an additional 25 per cent. of the number of lifejackets required to be carried by (5) (a) of this Rule in the case of ships where the number on board is more than 16 but provided that the number of additional life jackets need not exceed the number of persons on board.

(6) Included in the number of lifejackets required to be carried by (5) of this Rule there shall be at least sufficient inflatable lifejackets which comply with the requirements of Part II of the Tenth Schedule to these Rules for the crew of the rescue boat and for those crew members whose emergency duties require a lifejacket which will not unduly hinder them during the execution of those duties.

(7) Each lifejacket required to be carried by (5) and (6) of this Rule shall be fitted with a lifejacket light.

(8) Every such ship shall carry an immersion suit of an appropriate size and as specified in Rule 25 of these Rules for every person assigned to crew the rescue boat or inflated boat.

(9) ( a ) Every such ship shall carry an immersion suit as specified in Rule 25 of these Rules for every person on board unless----

(i) the liferafts are served by launching appliances; or

(ii) the liferafts are served by equivalent approved appliances capable of being used on both sides of the ship and which do not require entry into the water to board the liferaft; or

(iii) the ship is constantly engaged on voyages between the parallels of latitude of 20 degrees north and south.

( b ) The immersion suits required by (9) of this Rule may be used to comply with the requirements of (8) of this Rule.

(10) Every such ship shall carry not less than 12 rocket parachute flares.

(11) Every such ship of 12 metres in length and over shall carry a line-throwing appliance.

(12) Every such ship shall be provided with:--

( a ) a general emergency alarm system except that in ships of less than 45.7 metres in length the additional electrically operated means referred to in paragraph 1 of the Thirteenth Schedule to these Rules need not be provided, and

( b ) lighting as specified in Rules 15 (4) and (5) and 18 (8) of these Rules provided that such lighting need only be provided from one source of electrical power.

(13) Every such ship shall be provided with:--

( a ) posters or signs showing operating instructions on or in the vicinity of survival craft and their launching controls;

( b ) a training manual in each crew messroom and recreation room or in each crew cabin;

( c ) instructions for on-board maintenance of life-saving appliances or a shipboard planned maintenance programme which includes the maintenance of life-saving appliances; and

( d ) one copy of a rescue signal table for the time being approved by the Minister.

11. (1) This Rule applies to new ships of Class XII.

(2) Every such ship of 21.3 metres in length and over shall carry:--

( a ) at least two liferafts so stowed that they can be readily transferred to the water on either side of the ship, of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate twice the total number of persons on board;

( b ) four lifebuoys, two of which shall be fitted with buoyant lifelines and two with self-igniting lights and self-activating smoke signals;

( c ) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing 32 kilogrammes or more for each such person on board;

( d ) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing less than 32 kilogrammes for each such person on board;

( e ) a lifejacket light fitted on each of the lifejackets required by (2) (c) and (d) of this Rule;

( f ) either--

(i) six rocket parachute flares, or

(ii) six red star distress rocket signals;

( g ) a line-throwing appliance ;

( h ) posters or signs showing operating instructions on or in the vicinity of survival craft and their launching controls;

( i ) a training manual;

( j ) instructions for on-board maintenance of life-saving appliances; and

( k ) on the bridge one copy of a rescue signal table for the time being approved by the Minister;

and any such ship of 25.9 metres in length or over shall carry in addition a rescue boat or inflated boat. A lifeboat may be accepted as a rescue boat provided that it also complies with the requirements for a rescue boat. The lifeboat, rescue boat or inflated boat shall be served by a launching appliance.

(3) Every such ship to which this Rule applies of 13.7 metres in length or over but less than 21.3 metres in length and engaged on either a voyage to sea in the course of which it is more than three miles from the coast of the State or a voyage to sea during the months of November to March inclusive, shall carry:--

( a ) one or more liferafts complying with the requirements of Part I, II or III of the Fourth Schedule to these Rules so stowed as to be readily transferable to the water on either side of the ship and of sufficient aggregate capacity to accommodate the total number of persons on board;

( b ) two lifebuoys, one of which shall be fitted with a self-igniting light and self-activating smoke signal;

( c ) a buoyant lifeline at least 18 metres in length;

( d ) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing 32 kilogrammes or more for each such person on board;

( e ) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing less than 32 kilogrammes for each such person on board;

( f ) a lifejacket light fitted on each of the lifejackets required by (3) (d) and (e) of this Rule;

( g ) if operating in partially smooth waters or proceeding to sea either--

(i) six rocket parachute flares, or

(ii) six red star distress rocket signals; and

( h ) posters or signs showing operating instructions on or in the vicinity of survival craft and their launching controls;

( i ) a training manual;

( j ) instructions for on-board maintenance of life-saving appliances; and

( k ) on the bridge, one copy of a rescue signal table for the time being approved by the Minister.

(4) Every such ship of 13.7 metres in length or over but less than 21.3 metres in length which does not proceed to sea or which only proceeds to sea during the months of April to October, inclusive, on voyages in the course of which it is not more than three miles from the coast of the State shall carry:--

( a ) one lifebuoy for each two persons on board provided that at least two lifebuoys are carried; such ships which operate only in smooth waters shall not be required to carry more than two lifebuoys. One lifebuoy shall be fitted with a self-igniting light and self-activating smoke signal.

( b ) a buoyant lifeline at least 18 metres in length;

( c ) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing 32 kilogrammes or more for each such person on board;

( d ) a lifejacket suitable for a person weighing less than 32 kilogrammes for each such person on board;

( e ) a lifejacket light fitted on each of the lifejackets required by 4 (c) and (d) of this Rule in the case of ships which proceed to sea;

( f ) if operating in partially smooth waters or proceeding to sea either--

(i) six rocket parachute flares, or

(ii) six red star distress rocket signals;

( g ) on the bridge, one copy of a rescue signal table for the time being approved by the Minister.

(5) In lieu of carrying lifejackets complying with the requirements of Part I or II of the Tenth Schedule to these Rules every such ship may carry lifejackets complying with British Standard Specification BS 3595: 1981 provided such lifejackets do not depend wholly upon oral inflation. Lifejackets of the partially inherent buoyant type for persons weighing 32 kilogrammes or more shall have buoyancy in the uninflated state of not less than 89 newtons.

PART IV--GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

12. (1) Life-saving appliances and arrangements required by these Rules shall be of a type which has been approved by the Minister.

(2) Any such approval given pursuant to these Rules shall be given in writing and shall specify the date when it is to come into force and the conditions (if any) on which it is given.

(3) Any item of life-saving equipment marked with an expiry date shall be replaced on or before that date.

13. (1) All life-saving appliances shall be in working order and ready for immediate use before any ship commences a voyage and at all times during the voyage.

(2) Maintenance of life-saving appliances shall be carried out in accordance with the instructions for on-board maintenance, or in accordance with a shipboard planned maintenance programme which includes the requirements of Part II of the Twelfth Schedule to these Rules.

(3) Falls used in launching shall be turned end for end at intervals of not more than 30 months and be renewed when necessary due to deterioration of the falls or at intervals of not more than five years, whichever is the earlier. Stainless steel falls shall be turned end for end at intervals of not more than 30 months but need not be renewed provided that on inspection there are no signs of mechanical damage or other possible defects.

(4) Spares and repair equipment shall be provided for life-saving appliances and their components which are subject to excessive wear or consumption and need to be replaced regularly.

(5) The following tests and inspections shall be carried out weekly:--

( a ) all survival craft, rescue boats and launching appliances shall be visually inspected to ensure that they are ready for use;

( b ) all engines in lifeboats and rescue boats shall be run ahead and astern for a total period of not less than three minutes provided the ambient temperature is not lower than that at which the engine is required to start; and

( c ) the general emergency alarm system shall be tested.

(6) Inspection of the life-saving appliances, including lifeboat equipment shall be carried out monthly using the check list referred to in 2.1 of Part II of the Twelfth Schedule to these Rules. A report of the inspection shall be entered in the log referred to in paragraph 2.7 of Part II of the said Twelfth Schedule.

(7) Liferaft automatic release hooks shall be serviced at intervals not exceeding 30 months and shall be proof tested at 200 per cent. safe working load at intervals not exceeding five years.

(8) Rescue boat release gears and lifeboat disengaging gears shall be overhauled and shall be proof tested at 200 per cent. safe working load at intervals not exceeding five years.

(9) Every inflatable liferaft, inflated and rigid inflated rescue boat, inflated boat, inflated life jacket and hydrostatic release unit shall be serviced at a service station approved by the Minister at intervals not exceeding 12 months, provided that in any case where this is impracticable, such interval may be extended by a period not exceeding five months.

(10) Emergency repairs to inflated and rigid inflated rescue boats and inflated boats may be carried out on board ship but permanent repairs shall be effected at an approved service station as soon as practicable.

14. Posters and signs provided on or in the vicinity of survival craft and their launching controls shall:--

( a ) illustrate the purpose of controls and the procedures for operating the appliances and give relevant instructions;

( b ) be easily seen under emergency lighting conditions on ships of Classes I, II, II(A), VII, VII(T), VIII, VIII(T) and IX to which Rule 46 (1) of the Merchant Shipping (Passenger Ship Construction and Survey) Rules, 1985 ( S.I. No. 274 of 1985 ), or Rule 45 (1) of the Merchant Shipping (Cargo Ship Construction and Survey) Rules, 1985 ( S.I. No. 276 of 1985 ), apply as appropriate;

( c ) where applicable, use symbols in accordance with the recommendations of the Organisation.

15. (1) Lifeboats and liferafts for which launching appliances are required shall be stowed as close to accommodation and service spaces as possible.

(2) Muster stations shall be provided close to the embarkation stations. Each muster station shall have sufficient space to accommodate all persons assigned to muster at that station. In ships of Classes I, II and II(A) passenger muster stations shall permit ready access for the passengers to the embarkation stations unless in the same location, and shall have ample room for marshalling and instruction of the passengers.

(3) Muster and embarkation stations shall be readily accessible from accommodation and work areas.

(4) In ships of Classes I, II and II(A) and in ships of Classes VII, VII(T), VIII, VIII(T), VIII(A), VIII(A)(T) and IX of 500 tons or over, muster and embarkation stations shall be adequately illuminated by lighting supplied from the emergency source of electrical power required by Rule 46 (1) of the Merchant Shipping (Passenger Ship Construction and Survey) Rules, 1985 ( S.I. No. 274 of 1985 ), or Rule 45 (1) of the Merchant Shipping (Cargo Ship Construction and Survey) Rules, 1985 ( S.I. No. 276 of 1985 ), as appropriate.

(5) Alleyways, internal and external stairways and exists giving access to the muster and embarkation stations shall be lighted. In ships of the Classes referred to in (4) of this Rule such lighting shall be capable of being supplied by the emergency source of electrical power required by Rule 46 (1) of the Merchant Shipping (Passenger Ship Construction and Survey) Rules, 1985, or Rule 45 (1) of the Merchant Shipping (Cargo Ship Construction and Survey) Rules, 1985, as appropriate.

(6) Davit-launched survival craft muster and embarkation stations shall be so arranged as to enable stretcher cases to be placed in survival craft.

(7) In ships of Classes I, II, II(A), VII, VII(T), VIII, VIII(T), VIII(A), VIII(A)(T), IX, XI and XII an embarkation ladder shall be provided at each launching station or at every two adjacent launching stations, extending, in a single length, from the deck to the waterline in the lightest seagoing condition under favourable conditions of trim and with the ship listed not less than 15 degrees either way and where such distance exceeds one metre. Such ladders may be replaced by approved devices to afford access to survival craft when waterborne, provided that there shall be at least one embarkation ladder on each side of the ship. Handholds shall be provided to assist in a safe passage from the deck to the ladder and vice-versa. Other means of embarkation may be permitted for the liferafts required to be carried in compliance with Rules 7 (5) and 8 (8) of these Rules.

(8) Where necessary, means shall be provided for bringing davit-launched survival craft against the ship's side and holding them alongside so that persons can be safely embarked.

(9) On ships of Classes I, II and II(A) survival craft embarkation arrangements shall be so designed that:

( a ) all lifeboats can be boarded and launched either directly from the stowed position or from an embarkation deck but not both;

( b ) davit-launched liferafts can be boarded and launched from a position immediately adjacent to the stowed position or from a position to which, in compliance with the requirements of Rule 16 (5) of these Rules the liferaft is transferred prior to launching.

(10) On every ship provided with a rescue boat, arrangements shall be such that the rescue boat can be boarded and launched directly from the stowed position with the number of persons assigned to crew the rescue boat on board. Notwithstanding the requirements of (9) (a) of this Rule, if the rescue boat is also a lifeboat and the other lifeboats are boarded and launched from an embarkation deck, the arrangements shall be such that the rescue boat can also be boarded and launched from the embarkation deck.

(11) On ships of Classes VII, VII(T), VIII, VIII(T), VIII(A), VIII(A)(T), IX and XI survival craft embarkation arrangements shall be so designed that lifeboats can be boarded and launched directly from the stowed position and davit-launched liferafts can be boarded and launched from a position immediately adjacent to the stowed position or from a position to which the liferaft is transferred prior to launching in compliance with the requirements of Rule 16 (5) of these Rules.

16. (1) Each survival craft shall be stowed:

( a ) so that neither the survival craft nor its stowage arrangements will interfere with the operation of any other survival craft or rescue boat at any other launching station;

( b ) as near the water surface as is safe and practicable and, in the case of survival craft other than a liferaft intended for throw-overboard launching, in such a position that the survival craft in the embarkation position is not less than 2 metres above the waterline with the ship in the fully loaded conditions under unfavourable conditions of trim and listed up to 20 degrees either way, or to the angle at which the ship's weather deck edge becomes submerged, whichever is less;

( c ) in a state of continuous readiness so that two crew members can carry out preparations for embarkation and launching in less than five minutes;

( d ) fully equipped as prescribed in Part I of the First Schedule to these Rules or Part IV of the Fourth Schedule to these Rules;

( e ) as far as practicable, in a secure and sheltered position and protected from damage by fire and explosion.

(2) Lifeboats for lowering down the ship's side shall be stowed as far forward of the propeller as practicable. On ships of Classes VII, VII(T), VIII, VIII(T), VIII(A), VIII(A)(T) and IX of 80 metres in length and upwards but less than 120 metres in length, each lifeboat shall be so stowed that the after end of the lifeboat is not less than the length of the lifeboat forward of the propeller. On such ships of 120 metres in length and upwards and on ships of Classes I, II and II (A) of 80 metres in length and upwards, each lifeboat shall be so stowed that the after end of the lifeboat is not less than 1.5 times the length of the lifeboat forward of the propeller. Where appropriate, the ship shall be so arranged that lifeboats, in their stowed positions, are protected from damage by heavy seas.

(3) Lifeboats shall be stowed attached to launching appliances.

(4) In addition to meeting the requirements of (7) or (8) of this rule liferafts shall be so stowed as to permit manual release from their securing arrangements.

(5) Davit-launched liferafts shall be stowed within reach of lifting hooks, unless some means of transfer is provided which is not rendered inoperable within the limits of trim and list prescribed in (1) (b) of this Rule or by ship motion or power failure, provided that the liferafts required to be carried by Rule 5 (2) (c) and Rule 6 (4) of these Rules need not be so stowed.

(6) Liferafts intended for throw-overboard launching shall be so stowed as to be readily transferable for launching on either side of the ship unless liferafts, of the aggregate capacity required by Rules 7 (2) (b), 8 (4), 9 (3) (b) (i) and 10 (2) (a) of these Rules to be capable of being launched on either side, are stowed on each side of the ship.

(7) On ships of Classes I, II and II(A) every liferaft shall be stowed with its painter permanently attached to the ship and with a float-free arrangement complying with the requirements of Part VI of the Fourth Schedule to these Rules so that, as far as practicable, the liferaft floats free and, if inflatable, inflates automatically when the ship sinks.

(8) On ships of Classes VII, VII(T), VIII, VIII(T), VIII(A), VIII(A)(T), IX, XI and XII every liferaft, other than the liferafts required by Rules 7 (5) and 8 (8) of these Rules shall be stowed with its painter permanently attached to the ship and with a float-free arrangement complying with the requirements of Part VI of the Fourth Schedule to these Rules so that the liferaft floats free and, if inflatable, inflates automatically when the ship sinks. The liferafts required by Rules 7 (5) and 8 (8) of these Rules may be securely fastened with provision for manual release.

(9) Rescue boats shall be stowed:

( a ) in a state of continuous readiness for launching in not more than five minutes;

( b ) in a position suitable for launching and recovery;

( c ) so that neither the rescue boat nor its stowage arrangements will interfere with the operation of any survival craft at any other launching station; and

( d ) if it is also a lifeboat, in compliance with the requirements of this Rule for the stowage of lifeboats.

(10) Inflated boats shall be stowed:

( a ) in a state of continuous readiness for launching in the shortest possible time;

( b ) in a position suitable for launching and recovery; and

( c ) so that neither the inflated boat nor its stowage arrangements will interfere with the operation of any survival craft at any other launching station.

17. Launching stations shall be in such positions as to ensure safe launching having particular regard to the clearance from the propeller and steeply overhanging portions of the hull with the object of ensuring that so far as practicable, survival craft, except survival craft specially designed for free-fall launching, can be launched down the straight side of the ship and if positioned forward survival craft shall be stowed abaft the collision bulkhead in a sheltered position.

18. (1) Launching appliances complying with the requirements of Parts I and III of the Sixth Schedule to these Rules shall be provided for all liferafts except--

( a ) liferafts which are boarded from a position which is less than 4.5 metres above the waterline in the lightest seagoing condition and which either;

(i) have a mass of not more than 185 kilogrammes; or

(ii) are stowed for launching directly from the stowed position under unfavourable conditions of trim of up to 10 degrees and with the ship listed not less than 20 degrees either way;

( b ) liferafts having a mass of not more than 185 kilogrammes and which are carried in excess of the survival craft for 200 per cent. of the total number of persons on board the ship; and

( c ) the liferafts stowed as far forward or aft required by Rules 7 (5) and 8 (8) of these Rules;

provided that these exceptions shall not apply where it is otherwise expressly required that launching appliances shall be provided.

(2) Each lifeboat shall be provided with an appliance which is capable of launching and recovering the lifeboat.

(3) Only one type of release mechanism shall be used for similar survival craft carried on board the ship.

(4) On ships of Classes I, II and IIA all survival craft required to provide for abandonment by the total number of persons on board shall be capable of being launched with their full complement of persons and equipment within a period of 10 minutes from the time the abandon ship signal is given.

(5) On ships of Classes VII, VII(T), VIII, VIII(T), VIII(A), VIII(A)(T), IX and XI, with the exception of the survival craft referred to in (1) (a) of this Rule, all survival craft required to provide for abandonment by the total number of persons on board shall be capable of being launched with their full complement of persons and equipment within a period of 10 minutes from the time the abandon ship signal is given.

(6) On ships of Classes VII, VII(T), VIII, VIII(T), VIII(A), VIII(A)(T), and IX of 20,000 tons and upwards, lifeboats shall be capable of being launched where necessary utilising painters, with the ship making headway at speeds up to 5 knots in calm water.

(7) Preparation and handling of survival craft at any one launching station shall not interfere with the prompt preparation and handling of any other survival craft or rescue boat at any other station.

(8) During preparation and launching, each survival craft, its launching appliances, and the area of water into which it is to be launched shall be adequately illuminated by lighting supplied from the emergency source of electrical power required by Rule 46 (1) of the Merchant Shipping (Passenger Ship Construction and Survey), Rules, 1985 ( S.I. No. 274 of 1985 ), or Rule 45 (1) of the Merchant Shipping (Cargo Ship Construction and Survey) Rules, 1985 ( S.I. No. 276 of 1985 ), as appropriate.

(9) Means shall be available to prevent any discharge of water on to survival craft during abandonment.

(10) If there is a danger of a survival craft being damaged by the ship's stabiliser fins, means shall be available, powered by an emergency source of energy, to bring the stabiliser fins inboard. Indicators operated by an emergency source of energy shall be available on the navigating bridge to show the position of the stabiliser fins.

19. (1) A marine escape system or systems complying with the requirements of Part I of the Fifth Schedule to these Rules may be substituted on ships of Classes II and II(A) for some or all of the liferafts and launching appliances required by Rules 6 (2) (b) or 6 (3) (b) of these Rules. The liferafts included in such system or systems shall together with any other liferafts served by launching appliances other than the liferafts referred to in Rule 6 (4) of these Rules provide the same aggregate capacity as that required by the said Rules 6 (2) (b) or 6 (3) (b).

(2) Where one or more marine escape systems are provided on a ship, at least all such systems on one side shall be subjected to a trial deployment after installation.

(3) Where such a marine escape system is provided, provision for training the crew in its use shall be made. Such provision shall include the arrangements specified in Part II of the Fifth Schedule to these Rules.

20. (1) The rescue boat embarkation and launching arrangements shall be such that the rescue boat can be boarded and launched in the shortest possible time and in any case in not more than five minutes.

(2) If the rescue boat is one of the ship's survival craft, the embarkation arrangements and launching station shall comply with the requirements of Rules 15 and 17 of these Rules.

(3) Launching arrangements shall comply with the requirements of Rule 18 of these Rules and rescue boat launching appliances shall comply with the requirements of Part I and II of the Sixth Schedule to these Rules. All rescue boats shall be capable of being launched, where necessary utilising painters, with the ship making headway at speeds up to 5 knots in calm water.

(4) Rapid recovery of the rescue boat shall be possible when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment. If the rescue boat is also a lifeboat, rapid recovery shall be possible when loaded with its lifeboat equipment, and the approved rescue boat complement or six persons whichever is the greater.

21. (1) Lifebuoys shall be so distributed as to be readily available on both sides of the ship and as far as practicable on all open decks extending to the ship's side. At lease one lifebuoy shall be placed in the vicinity of the stern.

(2) Lifebuoys shall be so stowed as to be capable of being rapidly cast loose, and not permanently secured in any way.

(3) Except as otherwise provided one lifebuoy on each side of the ship shall be fitted with a buoyant lifeline.

(4) Except as otherwise provided lifebuoys with lights and those with lights and smoke signals shall be equally distributed on both sides of the ship and shall not be the lifebuoys provided with lifelines.

22. (1) Life jackets shall be so placed as to be readily accessible and their position shall be plainly indicated. Where due to particular arrangements of the ship, lifejackets in remote positions may become inaccessible, the number of lifejackets carried shall be suitably increased.

(2) Lifejackets comprising the additional 5 per cent. provided on passenger ships of Classes I, II and IIA shall be stowed in conspicious places on deck or at muster stations.

23. Portable radio equipment for survival craft required to be carried in compliance with Rules 5 (6) (a), 6 (8) (a), 7 (9) (a) and 8(11) (a) of these Rules shall be stowed in a protected and easily accessible position ready to be moved to any survival craft in an emergency, except that in the case of a ship with lifeboats stowed in widely separated positions fore and aft, portable radio equipment shall be stowed in the vicinity of the lifeboats which are furthest from the ship's main transmitter.

24. (1) Pyrotechnic distress signals provided for use on board ship shall be stowed on or near the navigating bridge. In the case of a line-throwing appliance which includes a pistol, the pistol, line and rockets together with the means of ignition shall be stowed in a container which provides protection from the weather.

(2) All pyrotechnic distress signals provided for use on board ships or for use in a lifeboat shall be packed in a watertight container. Such signals and signals provided for use in liferafts shall not be packed in plastic envelopes.

25. Immersion suits may be of the insulated or uninsulated type provided that immersion suits of the insulated type shall be carried on ships which make voyages:--

( a ) north of latitude 65 degrees North in the Atlantic Ocean;

( b ) north of latitude 55 degrees North in the Pacific Ocean;

( c ) south of latitude 50 degrees South, and

( d ) east of longitude 10 degrees East in the Kattegat and Baltic Sea between 1st December and 30th April, both dates inclusive.

26. (1) This Rule applies to ships of Classes I, II, II(A), VII, VII(T), VIII, VIII(T) and ships of Classes IX and XI engaged on international voyages.

(2) There shall be a sufficient number of crew members to operate the survival craft and launching arrangements required for abandonment by the total number of persons on board. The minimum number of deck officers, certificated persons and other crew members required to be carried shall be specified in the vessel's Safe Manning Certificate.

(3) A deck officer or certificated person shall be placed in charge of each lifeboat to be used. In addition a deck officer or certificated person shall be nominated second-in-command of such lifeboat.

(4) Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph a deck officer or certificated person shall be placed in charge of each liferaft to be used. In ships of Classes II and II(A) the person placed in charge of each liferaft may in lieu of a deck officer or certificated person be a crew member practiced in the handling and operation of liferafts.

(5) The person in charge of a survival craft shall have a list of the survival craft crew and shall ensure that the crew under his command are acquainted with their duties. In lifeboats the second-in-command shall also have a list of the lifeboat crew.

(6) In ships carrying liferafts served by launching appliances a deck officer or certificated person shall be assigned to each launching appliance.

(7) In ships carrying liferafts not served by launching appliances a deck officer or certificated person shall be assigned to each launching position.

(8) A person capable of operating the engine and carrying out minor adjustments shall be assigned to every lifeboat.

(9) A person capable of operating a radiotelegraph installation shall be assigned to every lifeboat required to carry such equipment.

(10) There shall be a sufficient number of trained persons on board for mustering and assisting untrained persons.

(11) The master shall ensure the equitable distribution of persons referred to in (2), (3), (4) and (10) of this Rule when compiling the muster list referred to in Rule 4 (2) of the Merchant Shipping (Musters and Training) Rules, 1990 ( S.I. No. 85 of 1990 ).

27. (1) Where these Rules require that a particular fitting, material, appliance or apparatus, or type thereof, shall be fitted or carried in a ship, or that any particular provision shall be made, the Minister may permit any other fitting, material, appliance or apparatus or type thereof to be fitted or carried, or any other provision to be made in that ship if he is satisfied by trial thereof or otherwise that such other fitting, material, appliance or apparatus, or type thereof, or provision is at least as effective as that required by these Rules.

(2) The Minister may exempt any ship not normally engaged on international voyages but which, in exceptional circumstances, is required to undertake a single international voyage from any of the requirements of these Rules, provided that she complies with safety requirements which in his opinion are adequate for the voyage which is to be undertaken by the ship.

(3) The Minister may exempt any ship or description of ships from all or any of the provisions of these Rules (as may be specified in the exemption) if he is satisfied that compliance with such provision is either impracticable or unreasonable in the case of that ship or description of ships on such terms (if any) as he may specify and may, subject to giving reasonable notice, alter or cancel any such exemption.

FIRST SCHEDULE

REQUIREMENTS FOR LIFEBOATS

Rules 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11 and 16.

PART I

GENERAL (INCLUDING EQUIPMENT)

1. Definitions

1.1 In this Schedule the following definition applies:

.1 "Length of lifeboat" means the length of the lifeboat in metres from the inside of the shell at the top of the stem to the corresponding point at the top of the stern post; in the case of a lifeboat with a square stern the length is measured to the inside of the top of the transom.

2. General

2.1 All lifeboats prescribed in this Part shall:

.1 be constructed with proper workmanship and materials;

.2 not be damaged in stowage throughout the air temperature range --30 degrees centigrade to +65 degrees centigrade;

.3 be capable of operating throughout a seawater temperature range of --1 degree centigrade to +30 degrees centigrade;

.4 be rot-proof, corrosion-resistant, and not be unduly affected by seawater, oil or fungal attack;

.5 be resistant to deterioration from exposure to sunlight;

.6 be of a highly visible colour on all parts where this will assist detection;

.7 be fitted with retro-reflective material where it will assist in detection and the dimensions and location of the material shall be to the satisfaction of the Minister;

.8 be capable of satisfactory operation in a sea environment.

3. Construction

3.1 All lifeboats shall be properly constructed and shall be of such form and proportions that they have ample stability in a seaway and sufficient freeboard when loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment. All lifeboats shall have rigid hulls and shall be capable of maintaining positive stability when in an upright position in calm water and loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment and holed in any one location below the waterline, assuming no loss of buoyancy material and no other damage.

3.2 All lifeboats shall be of sufficient strength to

.1 enable them to be safely lowered into the water when loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment; and

.2 be capable of being launched and towed when the ship is making headway at a speed of 5 knots in clam water.

3.3 Hulls and rigid covers shall be fire-retardant or non-combustible.

3.4 Seating shall be provided on thwarts, benches or fixed chairs fitted as low as practicable in the lifeboat and constructed so as to be capable of supporting the number of persons each weighing 100 kilogrammes for which spaces are provided in compliance with the requirements of paragraph 3.9.

3.5 Each lifeboat shall be of sufficient strength to withstand a load, without residual deflection on removal of that load:

.1 in the case of boats with metal hulls 1.25 times the total mass of the lifeboat when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment; or

.2 in the case of other boats, twice the total mass of the lifeboat when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment.

3.6 Each lifeboat shall be of sufficient strength to withstand, when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment and with, where applicable, skates or fenders in position, a lateral impact against the ship's side at an impact velocity of at least 3.5 metres per second and also a drop into the water from a height of at least 3 metres.

3.7 The vertical distance between the floor surface and the interior of the enclosure or canopy over 50 per cent. of the floor area shall be:

.1 not less than 1.3 metres for a lifeboat permitted to accommodate nine persons or less;

.2 not less than 1.7 metres for a lifeboat permitted to accommodate 24 persons or more:

.3 not less than the distance as determined by linear interpolation between 1.3 metres and 1.7 metres for a lifeboat permitted to accommodate between 9 and 24 persons.

3.8 No lifeboat shall be deemed fit to accommodate more than 150 persons.

3.9 The number of persons which a lifeboat shall be permitted to accommodate shall be equal to the lesser of:

.1 the number of persons having an average mass of 75 kilogrammes all wearing lifejackets, that can be seated in a normal position without interfering with the means of propulsion or the operation of any of the lifeboat's equipment; or

.2 the number of spaces that can be provided on the seating arrangement in accordance with Figure 1 of the Fifteenth Schedule to these Rules. The shapes may be overlapped as shown, provided footrests are fitted and there is sufficient room for legs, and the vertical separation between the upper and lower seat is not less than 350 millimetres.

3.10 Each seating position shall be clearly indicated in the lifeboat.

3.11 Every passenger ship lifeboat shall be so arranged that it can be rapidly boarded by its full complement of persons. Rapid disembarkation shall also be possible.

3.12 Every cargo ship lifeboat shall be so arranged that it can be boarded by its full complement of persons in not more than three minutes from the time the instruction to board is given. Rapid disembarkation shall also be possible.

3.13 Lifeboats shall have a boarding ladder that can be used on either side of the lifeboat to enable persons in the water to board the lifeboat. The lowest step of the ladder shall be not less than 0.4 metres below the lifeboat's light waterline, and shall be weighted if of buoyant material.

3.14 The lifeboat shall be so arranged that helpless people can be brought on board either from the sea or on stretchers.

3.15 All surfaces on which persons might walk shall have a non-skid finish.

3.16 All lifeboats shall have inherent buoyancy or shall be fitted with inherently buoyant material which shall not be adversely affected by seawater, oil or oil products, sufficient to float the lifeboat with all its equipment on board when flooded and open to the sea. Additional inherently buoyant material, equal to 280 newtons of buoyant force per person shall be provided for the number of persons the lifeboat is permitted to accommodate. Buoyant material, unless in addition to that required above, shall not be installed externally to the hull of the lifeboat.

3.17 Every lifeboat, when loaded with 50 per cent. of the number of persons the lifeboat is permitted to accommodate seated in their normal positions to one side of the centreline, shall have a freeboard, measured from the waterline to the lowest opening through which the lifeboat may become flooded, of at least 1.5 per cent of the lifeboat's length or 100 millimetres, whichever is the greater.

4. Lifeboat propulsion

4.1 Every lifeboat shall be powered by a compression ignition engine. No engine shall be used for any lifeboat if its fuel has a flashpoint of 43 degrees centigrade or less (closed cup test) and the engine shall:

.1 be provided with either a manual starting system, or a power starting system with two independent rechargeable energy sources. Any necessary starting aids shall also be provided. The engine starting systems and starting aids shall start the engine at an ambient temperature of --15 degrees centigrade within two minutes of commencing the start procedure unless, in the opinion of the Minister having regard to the particular voyages in which the ship carrying the lifeboat is constantly engaged, a different temperature is appropriate. The starting systems shall not be impeded by the engine casing thwarts or any other obstructions.

.2 be capable of operating for not less than five minutes after starting from cold with the lifeboat out of the water;

.3 be capable of operating when the lifeboat is flooded up to the centreline of the crankshaft;

.4 be capable of operating when the lifeboat is listed 10 degrees either way or trimmed 10 degrees either way.

4.2 Unless the propeller is arranged so as to avoid its rotation constituting a danger to people in the water adjacent to it, the drive arrangement between the prime mover and the propeller shall be such that the propeller can be brought to rest without stopping the prime mover. Provision shall be made for ahead and astern propulsion of the craft.

4.3 The exhaust pipe shall be so arranged as to prevent water from entering the engine in normal operation, and insulated as necessary.

4.4 All lifeboats shall be designed with due regard to the safety of persons in the water and to the possibility of damage to the propulsion system by floating debris.

4.5 The speed of a lifeboat when proceeding ahead in calm water, when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment and with all engine-powered auxiliary equipment in operation, shall be at least 6 knots and at least 2 knots when towing a 25 person liferaft loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment or its equivalent. Sufficient fuel, suitable for use throughout the temperature range expected in the area in which the ship operates, shall be provided to run the fully loaded lifeboat at 6 knots for a period of not less than 24 hours.

4.6 The lifeboat engine, transmission and engine accessories shall be enclosed in a fire-retardant casing or other suitable arrangements providing similar protection. Such arrangements shall also protect persons from coming into accidental contact with hot or moving parts and protect the engine from exposure to weather and sea. Adequate means shall be provided to reduce the engine noise. Starter batteries shall be provided with casings which form a watertight enclosure around the bottom and sides of the batteries. The battery casings shall have a light fitting top which provides for necessary gas-venting.

4.7 The lifeboat engine and accessories shall be designed to limit electromagnetic emissions so that engine operation does not interfere with the operation of radio life-saving appliances used in the lifeboat.

4.8 Means shall be provided for recharging all engine-starting, radio and searchlight batteries. Radio batteries shall not be used to provide power for engine starting. Means shall be provided for recharging lifeboat batteries from the ship's power supply. The electric power supply connection from the ship to any lifeboat shall be at a voltage of not exceeding 55 volts direct current or 55 volts root means square alternating current and shall be capable of being disconnected automatically at the lifeboat embarkation station.

4.9 Water-resistant instructions for starting and operating the engine shall be provided and mounted in a conspicuous place near the engine starting controls.

5. Lifeboat Fittings

5.1 All lifeboats shall be provided with at least one drain valve fitted near the lowest point in the hull, which shall automatically open to drain water from the hull when the lifeboat is not waterborne and shall automatically close to prevent entry of water when the lifeboat is waterborne. Each drain valve shall be provided with a cap or plug to close the valve, which shall be attached to the lifeboat by a lanyard, a chain, or other suitable means. Drain valves shall be readily accessible from inside the lifeboat and their position shall be clearly indicated.

5.2 All lifeboats shall be provided with a rudder and tiller or other suitable means of steering. When a wheel or other remote steering mechanism is also provided the alternative means shall be capable of steering the boat in the case of failure of the steering mechanism. Any rudder shall be permanently attached to the boat and any tiller shall be permanently installed on or linked to the rudder stock. However, if the boat has a remote steering mechanism the tiller may be removable and securely stowed near the rudder stock. The steering arrangements shall be so arranged so not to be damaged by operation of the release mechanism or the propeller.

5.3 Except in the vicinity of the rudder and propeller, a buoyant lifeline shall be becketed around and outside of the lifeboat.

5.4 Lifeboats which are not self-righting when capsized shall have suitable handholds on the underside of the hull to enable persons to cling to the lifeboat. The handholds shall be fastened to the lifeboat in such a way that, when subjected to an impact sufficient to cause them to break away from the lifeboat, they break away without damaging the lifeboat.

5.5 All lifeboats shall be fitted with sufficient watertight lockers or compartments to provide for the storage of the small items of equipment, water and provisions required by paragraph 7. Means shall be provided for the storage of collected rainwater.

5.6 Every lifeboat to be launched by a fall or falls shall be fitted with a release mechanism complying with Part VII of this Schedule.

5.7 Every lifeboat shall be fitted with a release device to enable the forward painter to be released when under tension.

5.8 Every lifeboat shall be provided with a permanently installed earth connection and arrangements for adequately siting and securing in the operating position the antenna provided with the portable radio apparatus required by Rules 5 (6) (a), 6 (8) (a), 7 (9) (a) and 8 (11) (a) of these Rules.

5.8A Every lifeboat which is fitted with a fixed two-way VHF radio-telephone apparatus with an antenna which is separately mounted shall be provided with arrangements for siting and securing the antenna effectively in its operating position.

5.9 Lifeboats intended for launching down the side of a ship shall have skates and fenders as necessary to facilitate launching and prevent damage to the lifeboat.

5.10 A manually controlled lamp complying with the requirements of Part IX of this Schedule shall be fitted to the top of the cover or enclosure.

5.11 A lamp or source of light complying with the requirements of Part IX of this Schedule shall be fitted inside the lifeboat; however, oil lamps shall not be permitted for this purpose.

5.12 Unless expressly provided otherwise, every lifeboat shall be provided with effective means of bailing or be automatically self-bailing.

5.13 Every lifeboat shall be so arranged that an adequate view forward, aft and to both sides is provided from the control and steering position for safe launching and manoeuvering.

6. Lifeboat markings

6.1 The dimensions of the lifeboat, the number of persons which it is permitted to accommodate, the makers serial number, name or trade mark and the date of manufacture shall be marked on the lifeboat in clear permanent characters.

6.2 The name and port of registry of the ship to which the lifeboat belongs shall be marked on each side of the boat's bow in block capitals of the Roman alphabet.

6.3 Means of identifying the ship to which the lifeboat belongs and the number of the boat shall be marked in such a way that they are visible from above.

7. Lifeboat equipment

7.1 All items of lifeboat equipment, whether required by this paragraph or elsewhere in this Schedule, with the exception of boat-hooks which shall be kept available for fending off purposes, shall be secured within the lifeboat by lashings, storage in lockers or compartments, storage in brackets or similar mounting arrangements or other suitable means.

The equipment shall be secured in such manner as not to interfere with any abandonment procedures. All items of lifeboat equipment shall be as small and of as little mass as possible and shall be packed in a suitable and compact form. Except where otherwise stated, the normal equipment of every lifeboat shall consist of:

.1 sufficient buoyant oars to make headway in calm seas; thole pins, crutches or equivalent arrangements shall be provided for each oar provided; whole pins or crutches shall be attached to the boat by lanyards or chains;

.2 two boat-hooks;

.3 a buoyant bailer and two buckets;

.4 a survival manual;

.5 a binnacle containing an efficient compass complying with the requirements of Part V of the Seventh Schedule to these Rules which is luminous or provided with suitable means of illumination; in a totally enclosed lifeboat, the binnacle shall be permanently fitted at the steering position; in any other lifeboat, it shall be provided with suitable mounting arrangements;

.6 a sea-anchor complying with the requirements of Part I of the Seventh Schedule to these Rules;

.7 two efficient painters of a length equal to not less than twice the distance from the stowage position of the lifeboat to the waterline in the lightest seagoing condition or 15 metres whichever is the greater; one painter attached to the release device required by paragraph 5.7 shall be placed at the forward end of the lifeboat and the other shall be stored at or near the bow of the lifeboat ready for use ;

.8 two hatchets, one at each end of the lifeboat;

.9 watertight receptacles complying with the requirements of Part IV of the Seventh Schedule to these Rules containing a total of three litres of fresh water for each person the lifeboat is permitted to accommodate, of which one litre per person may be replaced by a de-salting apparatus capable of producing an equal amount of fresh water in two days;

.10 three rustproof graduated drinking vessels, one suitably graduated in millilitres;

.11 food rations totalling not less than 10,000 kilojoules for each person the lifeboat is permitted to accommodate; these rations shall be kept in airtight packaging and be stowed in a watertight container;

.12 four rocket parachute flares;

.13 six hand flares;

.14 two buoyant smoke signals;

.15 one waterproof electric torch suitable for Morse signalling together with one spare set of batteries and one spare bulb in a waterproof container;

.16 one daylight signalling mirror with instructions for its use for signalling to ships and aircraft;

.17 one copy of a rescue signal table for the time being approved by the Minister;

.18 one whistle or equivalent sound signal;

.19 a first-aid outfit complying with the requirements of Part II of the Seventh Schedule to these Rules;

.20 six doses of anti-seasickness medicine and one seasickness bag for each person;

.21 a jack-knife to be kept attached to the boat by a lanyard;

.22 three tin openers;

.23 two buoyant rescue quoits, attached to not less than 30 metres of buoyant line;

.24 a manual pump complying with the requirements of Part VIII of the First Schedule to these Rules;

.25 one set of fishing tackle;

.26 sufficient tools for minor adjustments to the engine and its accessories;

.27 two portable fire-extinguishers suitable for extinguishing oil fires;

.28 a searchlight capable of effectively illuminating a light-coloured object at night having a width of 18 metres at a distance of 180 metres for a total period of 6 hours and of working for not less than 3 hours continuously.

.29 an efficient radar reflector, unless a radar transponder is stowed in that lifeboat.

.30 thermal protective aids sufficient for 10 per cent. of the number of persons the lifeboat is permitted to accommodate or two thermal protective aids, whichever is the greater;

.31 in the case of ships engaged on voyages solely within the Near continental trading area the items specified in paragraphs 7.1.11 and 7.1.25 need not be carried.

8. Instructions and Information

8.1 Instructions and information required for inclusion in the training manual specified in Part I of the Twelfth Schedule to these Rules and in the instructions for on-board maintenance specified in Part II of the said Twelfth Schedule shall be in a form suitable for inclusion in such training manual and instructions for on-board maintenance. Instructions and information shall be in English in a clear and concise form and shall include the following:--

.1 general description of the lifeboat and its equipment;

.2 installation arrangements;

.3 operational instructions including use of associated survival equipment;

.4 survival instructions;

.5 emergency repair instructions;

.6 deployment, boarding and launching instructions;

.7 method of launching from within the boat;

.8 release from launching appliances;

.9 on board maintenance requirements;

.10 servicing requirements;

.11 use of engine and accessories;

.12 recovery of boat including stowage and securing.

Rules 5 and 6.

PART II

PARTIALLY ENCLOSED LIFEBOATS

1. All partially enclosed lifeboats shall comply with the requirements of Part I of this Schedule and in addition shall comply with the requirements of this Part as follows:--

2. Every partially enclosed lifeboat shall be provided with effective means of bailing or be automatically self-bailing.

3. Enclosure

3.1 Permanently attached rigid covers shall be provided extending over not less than 20 per cent. of the length of the lifeboat from the stem and not less than 20 per cent. of the length of the lifeboat from the aftermost part of the lifeboat.

3.2 The rigid covers shall form two shelters. The interior height of the shelters shall be sufficient to permit persons easy access to their seats in the bow and stern of the lifeboat.

3.3 The rigid covers shall be so arranged that they include windows or translucent panels to admit sufficient daylight to the inside of the lifeboat with the openings or canopies closed so as to make artificial light unnecessary.

3.4 The rigid covers shall have railings to provide a secure handhold for persons moving about the exterior of the lifeboat.

3.5 Open parts of the lifeboats shall be fitted with a permanently attached foldable canopy so arranged that:

.1 it can be easily erected by not more than two persons;

.2 it is insulated to protect the occupants against cold by means of not less than two layers of material separated by an air gap or other equally efficient means; means shall be provided to prevent accumulation of water in the air gap.

3.6 The enclosure formed by the rigid covers and canopy shall be so arranged:

.1 as to allow launching and recovery operations to be performed without any occupant having to leave the enclosure;

.2 that it has entrances at both ends and on each side, provided with efficient adjustable closing arrangements which can be easily and quickly opened and closed from inside or outside so as to permit ventilation but exclude seawater, wind and cold; means shall be provided for holding the entrances securely in the open and in the closed position;

.3 that with the canopy erected and all entrances closed, sufficient air is admitted for the occupants at all times;

.4 that it has means for collecting rainwater;

.5 that the exterior of the rigid covers and canopy and the interior of that part of the lifeboat covered by the canopy is of a highly visible colour. The interior of the shelters shall be of a colour which does not cause discomfort to the occupants;

.6 that it is possible to row the lifeboat.

4. The radiotelegraph installation required by Rule 5 (6) (a) of these Rules shall be installed in a cabin large enough to accommodate both the equipment and the person using it. No separate cabin is required if the construction of the lifeboat provides a sheltered space to the satisfaction of the Minister.

5. If a fixed two-way VHF radiotelephone apparatus is fitted in the lifeboat it shall be installed in a cabin large enough to accommodate both the equipment and the person using it; provided that no separate cabin shall be required if the construction of the lifeboat provides a sheltered space to the satisfaction of the Minister.

Rules 5, 6 and 7.

PART III

SELF-RIGHTING PARTIALLY ENCLOSED LIFEBOATS

1. All self-righting partially enclosed lifeboats shall comply with the requirements of Part I of this Schedule and in addition shall comply with the requirements of this Part as follows:--

2. Enclosure

2.1 Permanently attached rigid covers shall be provided extending over not less than 20 per cent. of the length of the lifeboat from the stem and not less than 20 per cent. of the length of the lifeboat from the aftermost part of the lifeboat.

2.2 The rigid covers shall form two shelters. If the shelters have bulkheads they shall have openings of sufficient size to permit easy access by persons each wearing an immersion suit or warm clothes and a lifejacket. The interior height of the shelters shall be sufficient to permit persons easy access to their seats in the bow and stern of the lifeboat.

2.3 The rigid covers shall be so arranged that they include windows or translucent panels to admit sufficient daylight to the inside of the lifeboat with the openings or canopies closed so as to make artificial light unnecessary.

2.4 The rigid covers shall have railings to provide a secure handhold for persons moving about the exterior of the lifeboat.

2.5 Open parts of the lifeboat shall be fitted with a permanently attached foldable canopy so arranged that:

.1 it can be easily erected by not more than two persons in not more than two minutes;

.2 it is insulated to protect the occupants against cold by means of not less than two layers of material separated by an air gap or other equally efficient means; means shall be provided to prevent accumulation of water in the air gap;

2.6 The enclosure formed by the rigid covers and canopy shall be so arranged:

.1 as to allow launching and recovery operations to be performed without any occupant having to leave the enclosure;

.2 that it has entrances at both ends and on each side, provided with efficient adjustable closing arrangements which can be easily and quickly opened and closed from inside or outside so as to permit ventilation but exclude seawater, wind and cold; means shall be provided for holding the entrances securely in the open and in the closed position;

.3 that with the canopy erected and all entrances closed, sufficient air is admitted for the occupants at all times;

.4 that it has means for collecting rainwater;

.5 that the exterior of the rigid covers and canopy and the interior of that part of the lifeboat covered by the canopy is of a highly visible colour. The interior of the shelters shall be of a colour which does not cause discomfort to the occupants;

.6 that it is possible to row the lifeboat.

3. Capsizing and re-righting

3.1 A four-point safety belt and head protection shall be fitted at each indicated seating position. The safety belt shall be so designed as to hold a person of a mass of 100 kilogrammes securely in place when the lifeboat is in a capsized position.

3.2 The stability of the lifeboat shall be such that it is inherently or automatically self-righting when loaded with its full or a partial complement of persons and equipment and the persons are secured with safety belts.

4. Propulsion

4.1 The engine and transmission shall be controlled from the helmsman's position.

4.2 The engine and engine installation shall be capable of running in any position during capsize and continue to run after the lifeboat returns to the upright or shall automatically stop on capsizing and be easily restarted after the lifeboat returns to the upright and the water has been drained from the lifeboat. The design of the fuel and lubricating systems shall prevent the loss of fuel and the loss of more than 250 millilitres of lubricating oil from the engine during capsize.

4.3 Air-cooled engines shall have a duct system to take in cooling air from, and exhaust it to, the outside of the lifeboat. Manually operated dampers shall be provided to enable cooling air to be taken in from, and exhausted to, the exterior of the lifeboat.

5. Construction and fendering

5.1 Notwithstanding the requirements of paragraph 3.6 of Part I of this Schedule a self-righting partially enclosed lifeboat shall be so constructed and fendered as to ensure that the lifeboat renders protection against harmful accelerations resulting from an impact of the lifeboat, when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment, against the ship's side at an impact velocity of not less than 3.5 metres per second.

5.2 The lifeboat shall be automatically self-bailing.

6. The radiotelegraph installation required by Rule 5 (6) (a) of these Rules shall be installed in a cabin large enough to accommodate both the equipment and the person using it. No separate cabin is required if the construction of the lifeboat provides a sheltered space to the satisfaction of the Minister.

Rules 5, 6 and 7.

PART IV

TOTALLY ENCLOSED LIFEBOATS

1. All totally enclosed lifeboats shall comply with the requirements of Part I of this Schedule and in addition shall comply with the requirements of this Part as follows:--

2. Enclosure

2.1 Every totally enclosed lifeboat shall be provided with a rigid watertight enclosure which completely encloses the lifeboat.

2.2 The enclosure shall be so arranged that:

.1 it protects the occupants against heat and cold;

.2 access to the lifeboat is provided by hatches which can be closed to make the lifeboat watertight;

.3 hatches are positioned so as to allow launching and recovery operations to be performed without any occupant having to leave the enclosure;

.4 access hatches are capable of being opened and closed from both inside and outside and are equipped with means to hold them securely in open positions;

.5 it is possible to row the lifeboat;

.6 it is capable, when the lifeboat is in the capsized position with the hatches closed and without significant leakage, of supporting the entire mass of the lifeboat, including all equipment, machinery and its full complement of persons;

.7 it includes windows or translucent panels on both sides which admit sufficient daylight to the inside of the lifeboat with the hatches closed to make artificial light unnecessary;

.8 its exterior is of a highly visible colour and its interior of a colour which does not cause discomfort to the occupants;

.9 handrails provide a secure handhold for persons moving about the exterior of the lifeboat, and aid embarkation and disembarkation;

.10 persons have access to their seats from an entrance without having to climb over thwarts or other obstructions;

.11 the occupants are protected from the effects of dangerous sub-atmospheric pressures which might be created by the lifeboat's engine.

3. Capsizing and re-righting

3.1 A four-point safety belt and head protection shall be fitted at each indicated seating position. The safety belt shall be designed to hold a person of a mass of 100 kilogrammes securely in place when the lifeboat is in a capsized position.

3.2 The stability of the lifeboat shall be such that it is inherently or automatically self-righting when loaded with its full or a partial complement of persons and equipment and all entrances and openings are closed watertight and the persons are secured with safety belts.

3.3 The lifeboat shall be capable of supporting its full complement of persons and equipment when the lifeboat is in the damaged condition described in paragraph 3.1 of Part I of this Schedule and its stability shall be such that in the event of capsizing, it will automatically attain a position that will provide an above-water escape for its occupants.

3.4 The design of all engine exhaust pipes, air ducts and other openings shall be such that water is excluded from the engine when the lifeboat capsizes and re-rights.

4. Propulsion

4.1 The engine and transmission shall be controlled from the helmsman's position.

4.2 The engine installation shall be capable of running in any position during capsize and continue to run after the lifeboat returns to the upright or shall automatically stop on capsizing and be easily restarted after the lifeboat returns to the upright. The design of the fuel and lubricating systems shall prevent the loss of fuel and the loss of more than 250 millilitres of lubricating oil from the engine during capsize.

4.3 Air-cooled engines shall have a duct system to take in cooling air from, and exhaust it to, the outside of the lifeboat. Manually operated dampers shall be provided to enable cooling air to be taken in from, and exhausted to, the exterior of the lifeboat.

5. Construction and fendering

5.1 Notwithstanding the requirements of paragraph 3.6 of Part I of this Schedule, a totally enclosed lifeboat shall be so constructed and fendered as to ensure that the lifeboat renders protection against harmful accelerations resulting from an impact of the lifeboat, when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment against the ship's side at an impact velocity of not less than 3.5 metres per second.

6. Free-fall lifeboats

6.1 A lifeboat arranged for free-fall launching shall be a totally enclosed lifeboat so constructed that it is capable of rendering protection against harmful accelerations resulting from being launched, when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment, from at least the maximum height at which it is designed to be stowed above the waterline with the ship in the lightest seagoing condition, under unfavourable conditions of trim of up to 10 degrees and with the ship listed not less than 20 degrees either way.

Rule 8.

PART V

LIFEBOAT WITH A SELF-CONTAINED AIR SUPPORT SYSTEM

1. All lifeboats with a self-contained air support system shall comply with the requirements of Parts I and IV of this Schedule and in addition shall comply with the requirements of this Part as follows:--

2. Every lifeboat with a self-contained air support system shall be so arranged that, when proceeding with all entrances and openings closed, the air in the lifeboat remains safe and breathable and the engine runs normally for a period of not less than ten minutes. During this period the atmospheric pressure inside the lifeboat shall never fall below the outside atmospheric pressure nor shall it exceed it by more than 20 millibars. The system shall have visual indicators to indicate the pressure of the air supply at all times.

Rule 8.

PART VI

FIRE-PROTECTED LIFEBOATS

1. All fire-protected lifeboats in this Part shall comply with the requirements of Part I, IV and V of this Schedule and in addition shall comply with the requirements of this Part as follows:--

2. Every fire-protected lifeboat when waterborne shall be capable of protecting the number of persons it is permitted to accommodate when subjected to a continuous oil fire that envelops the lifeboat for a period of not less than eight minutes.

3. Water spray system

3.1 A lifeboat which has a water spray fire-protection system shall comply with the following:--

.1 water for the system shall be drawn from the sea by a self-priming motor pump. It shall be possible to turn "on" and "off" the flow of water over the exterior of the lifeboat;

.2 the seawater intake shall be so arranged as to prevent the intake of flammable liquids from the sea surface;

.3 the system shall be arranged for flushing with fresh water and allowing complete drainage.

First Schedule, Part 1.

PART VII

LIFEBOAT DISENGAGING GEAR

1. Except in the case of single point suspension the lifeboat disengaging gear shall be so arranged that all hooks are released simultaneously on the operating of the control mechanism.

2. The means of effecting release shall be placed near the coxswain's position.

3. The gear shall have two release capabilities:--

.1 a normal release capability which will release the lifeboat only when it is waterborne or when there is no load on the hooks;

.2 an on-load release capability which will release the lifeboat with a load on the hooks. This release shall be so arranged as to release the lifeboat under any condition of loading from no-load with the lifeboat waterborne to a load of 1.1 times the total mass of the lifeboat when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment. This release shall be adequately protected against accidental or premature use.

4. The means of connection between the hooks, safety device and the operating lever or release unit shall:

.1 be arranged and led so as to ensure the efficient operation of the gear;

.2 wherever necessary, be properly cased in for the safety or efficient action of the gear or for the protection of persons from injury; and

.3 where cased in, means shall be provided for lubricating this equipment.

5.1 The release control(s) are to be clearly marked in a colour that contrasts with its surroundings, and a suitably worded instruction plate indicating the method of safe operation of the gear shall be provided.

6.1 Such parts of the gear as would otherwise be likely to be set fast by rust or corrosion shall be made of non-corrodible metal.

7.1 The mechanism shall be designed with a factor of safety of six based on the ultimate strength of the materials used, assuming that the mass of the lifeboat is equally distributed.

First Schedule, Part I.

PART VIII

MANUAL PUMPS

1. Every lifeboat manual pump shall comply with the following requirements:--

.1 the capacity when operated at not more than 60 double strokes per minute at 1.2 metres suction head, shall be not less than:

.1 30 litres per minute in lifeboats of 7 metres in length or over; or

.2 20 litres per minute in lifeboats of less than 7 metres in length;

.2 in its normal dry state (excluding internal grease or other assistance) the pump shall be readily self-priming when operated at a suction head of not less than 1.2 metres;

.3 all parts of the pump shall be of material unaffected by the corrosive effects of sea water;

.4 the interior of the pump, including valves, shall be readily accessible for emergency cleaning and the cover for access shall be capable of being easily removed without the use of a spanner or other special tool; and

.5 the pump branches shall be suitable for use with rubber hose connections of at least 30 millimetres bore. The metal part of the operating handle shall be suitably sheathed by material other than wood to ensure that the hands of the operator are protected when the pump is used in extreme cold. The spindle gland shall be of the spring loaded seal ring type.

First Schedule, Part 1.

PART IX

LIFEBOAT LIGHTS

1. General

1.1 Internal and External Lights

.1 The lights shall be provided with a manually operated switch.

.2 Each light shall be connected independently to its own power source unless it is operated from the lifeboat's battery system.

2. Construction

Internal and External Lights

.1 The complete light unit shall be constructed with proper workmanship and materials.

.2 It shall be capable of withstanding the drop test for a lifeboat.

.3 It shall be capable of withstanding a drop of 2 metres on to a rigidly mounted steel plate or concrete surface.

.4 It shall be rot proof, corrosion resistant, and not be unduly affected by sea-water, oil or fungal growth.

.5 It shall not deteriorate due to damp or humidity when stowed in or on a lifeboat.

.6 The power source shall be proofed against leakage of any chemicals which could damage or cause deterioration of the lifeboat.

.7 The connection between light and power shall be suitably protected.

.8 The lamp, lamp holder and lens shall be so constructed to prevent the ingress of water.

.9 If the external light is a flashing light, it shall not be fitted with a lens or curved reflector to concentrate the beam.

3. Performance

3.1 Internal and External Light

.1 The lights shall have an operational endurance of not less than 12 hours.

.2 They shall not be damaged in stowage throughout the air temperature range -30 degrees centigrade to +65 degrees centigrade.

.3 They shall operate in a satisfactory manner throughout a seawater temperature -1 degree centigrade to +30 degrees centigrade.

3.2 Internal Light

.1 The light shall be of sufficient luminous intensity to enable survival and equipment instructions to be read.

3.3 External Light

.1 The light shall be visible on a dark night with a clear atmosphere at a distance of at least two miles.

.2 It shall be visible through 360 degrees in a horizontal direction and over as great a segment of the upper hemisphere as is practical when attached to a lifeboat.

.3 In the case of a flashing light it shall flash at a rate of not less than 50 flashes per minute for the first 2 hours of operation.

.4 When fitted to a fire-protected lifeboat, the light should be arranged such that it is protected by a water spray system.

4. Markings

Internal and External Lights

4.1 The power source if independent of the lifeboat's battery system shall be marked externally with:--

.1 the manufacturer's name or trade mark;

.2 the type and batch number;

.3 date of manufacture and expiry;

.4 the phrase "DOM Approved".

4.2 If the power source is a chemical pressurised cell it shall be clearly marked with a suitable warning notice.

SECOND SCHEDULE

REQUIREMENTS FOR RESCUE BOATS

PART I

RIGID RESCUE BOATS

Rules 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11 and 16.

1. General

1.1 A rigid rescue boat may be accepted as a lifeboat provided it also complies with the relevant requirements of the First Schedule to these Rules.

1.2 All rigid rescue boats prescribed in this Part shall:

.1 be constructed with proper workmanship and materials;

.2 not be damaged in stowage throughout the air temperature range --30 degrees centigrade to +65 degrees centigrade;

.3 be capable of operating throughout the seawater temperature range --1 degree centigrade to +30 degrees centigrade;

.4 be rot-proof, corrosion-resistant, and not be unduly affected by seawater, oil or fungal attack;

.5 be resistant to deterioration from exposure to sunlight;

.6 be of highly visible colour on all parts where this will assist detection;

.7 be fitted with retro-reflective material where this will assist in detection and dimensions and location of the material shall be to the satisfaction of the Minister;

.8 be capable of satisfactory operation in a sea environment.

2. Construction

2.1 All boats shall be properly constructed and shall be of such form and proportions that they have ample stability in a seaway and sufficient freeboard when loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment. All boats shall have rigid hulls and shall be capable of maintaining positive stability when in an upright position in calm water and loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment and holed in any one location below the waterline, assuming no loss of buoyancy material and no other damage.

2.2 All boats shall be of sufficient strength to:

.1 enable them to be safely lowered into the water when loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment; and

.2 be capable of being launched and towed when the ship is making headway at a speed of 5 knots in calm water.

2.3 Seating shall be provided on thwarts, benches or fixed chairs fitted as low as practicable in the boat and constructed so as to be capable of supporting the number of persons each weighing 100 kilogrames for which spaces are provided in compliance with the requirements of paragraph 2.5.2.

2.4 Each boat shall be of sufficient strength to withstand, when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment and with, where applicable, skates or fenders in position, a lateral impact against the ship's side at an impact velocity of at least 3.5 metres per second and also a drop into the water from a height of at least 3 metres.

2.5 The number of persons which a boat shall be permitted to accommodate shall be equal to the lesser of:

.1 the number of persons having an average mass of 75 kilogrammes all wearing lifejackets, that can be seated in a normal position plus one person lying down without interfering with the means of propulsion or the operation of any of the boat's equipment; or

.2 the number of spaces that can be provided on the seating arrangements in accordance with Figure 2 of the Fifteenth Schedule to these Rules, plus one person lying down.

2.6 Each seating position shall be clearly indicated in the boat.

2.7 All boats shall have a boarding ladder that can be used on either side of the boat to enable persons in the water to board the boat. The lowest step of the ladder shall be weighted if of buoyant material and shall float at a level not less than 0.4 metres below the boat's light waterline.

2.8 The boat shall be so arranged that helpless people can be brought on board either from the sea or on stretchers.

2.9 All surfaces on which persons might walk shall have a non-skid finish.

2.10 All boats shall have inherent buoyancy or shall be fitted with inherently buoyant material which shall not be adversely affected by seawater, oil or oil products. Such buoyancy shall be sufficient to float the boat with all its equipment on board when flooded and open to the sea. Additional inherently buoyant material, equal to 280 newtons of buoyant force per person shall be provided for the number of persons the boat is permitted to accommodate. Buoyant material, unless in addition to that required above, shall not be installed external to the hull of the boat.

2.11 Every boat, when loaded with 50 per cent. of the number of persons the boat is permitted to accommodate seated in their formal positions to one side of the centreline, shall have a freeboard, measured from the waterline to the lowest opening through which the boat may become flooded, of at least 1.5 per cent. of the boat's length or 100 millimetres whichever is the greater.

2.12 All boats shall:

.1 be not less than 3.8 metres and not more than 8.5 metres in length;

.2 be capable of carrying at least five seated persons and a person lying down.

2.13 Unless the boat has adequate sheer, it shall be provided with a bow cover extending for not less than 15 per cent. of its length.

2.14 All boats shall be capable of manoeuvring at speeds of at least six knots and maintaining a speed of 6 knots for a period of at least 4 hours.

2.15 All boats shall have sufficient mobility and manoeuvrability in a seaway to enable persons to be retrieved from the water, marshal liferafts and tow the largest liferaft carried on the ship when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment or its equivalent at a speed of at least 2 knots.

2.16 The boat shall be fitted with an inboard or outboard engine complying with the relevant parts of paragraph 3.

2.17 Arrangements for towing shall be permanently fitted in rescue boats and shall be sufficiently strong to marshal or tow liferafts as required by paragraph 2.15.

2.18 All boats shall be fitted with weathertight stowage for small items of equipment.

2.19 Hulls and rigid covers, if fitted, shall be fire-retardant or non-combustible.

2.20 Each boat shall be of sufficient strength to withstand a load, without residual deflection on removal of that load;

.1 in the case of boats with metal hulls, 1.25 times the total mass of the boat when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment; or

.2 in the case of other boats, twice the total mass of the boat when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment.

2.21 All boats shall be fitted with a protective stowage cover and shall be kept covered at all times when the boat is not in use. The cover shall be arranged for quick removal in an emergency.

3. Rigid rescue boat propulsion

3.1 Inboard engine

.1 Where a boat is powered by an inboard engine it shall be of the compression ignition type. No engine shall be used for any boat if its fuel has a flashpoint of 43 degrees centigrade or less (Closed Cup Test) and the engine shall:

.1 be provided with either a manual starting system, or a power starting system with two independent rechargeable energy sources. Any necessary starting aids shall also be provided; the engine starting systems and starting aids shall start the engine at an ambient temperature of --15 degrees centigrade within two minutes of commencing the start procedure unless, in the opinion of the Minister having regard to the particular voyages in which the ship carrying the boat is constantly engaged, a different temperature is appropriate; the starting systems shall not be impeded by the engine casing, thwarts or other obstructions;

.2 be capable of operating for not less than five minutes after starting from cold with the boat out of the water; and

.3 be capable of operating when the boat is flooded up to the centreline of the crank shaft.

3.2 Outboard Engine

.1 A petrol-driven outboard engine with an approved fuel system may be fitted to a boat provided the tank is specially protected against fire and explosion.

.2 A petrol engine shall be provided with either a manual starting system, or a power starting system. Any necessary starting aids shall also be provided. The engine starting systems and starting aids shall start the engine at an ambient temperature of --15 degrees centigrade within two minutes of commencing the start procedure unless, in the opinion of the Minister having regard to the particular voyages in which the ship carrying the boat is constantly engaged, a different temperature is appropriate; the starting systems shall not be impeded by the engine casing, thwarts or other obstructions.

3.3 Unless the propeller is so arranged so as to avoid its rotation constituting a danger to people in the water adjacent to it the drive arrangement between the prime mover and the propeller shall be such that the propeller can be brought to rest without stopping the prime mover. Provision shall be made for ahead and astern propulsion of the craft.

3.4 The exhaust pipe shall be so arranged as to prevent water from entering the engine in normal operation.

3.5 All boats shall be designed with due regard to the safety of persons in the water and to the possibility of damage to the propulsion system by floating debris.

3.6 The boat engine, transmission and engine accessories shall be enclosed in a fire-retardant casing or other suitable arrangements providing similar protection. Such arrangements shall also protect persons from coming into accidental contact with hot or moving parts and protect the engine from exposure to weather and sea. Adequate means shall be provided to reduce the engine noise. Starter batteries shall be provided with casings which form a watertight enclosure around the bottom and sides of the batteries. The battery casings shall have a tight fitting top which provides for necessary gas venting.

3.7 The boat engine and accessories shall be designed to limit electromagnetic emissions so that engine operation does not interfere with the operation of radio life-saving appliances used in the boat.

3.8 Means shall be provided for recharging all engine-starting, searchlight and, when fitted, radio batteries. Radio batteries shall not be used to provide power for engine starting. The electric power supply from the ship to any rigid rescue boat shall be at a voltage of not exceeding 55 volts direct current or 55 volts root mean square alternating current and shall be capable of being disconnected automatically at the rigid rescue boat embarkation station.

3.9 Water-resistant instructions for starting and operating the engine shall be provided and mounted in a conspicuous place near the engine starting controls.

4. Boat fittings

4.1 All boats shall be provided with at least one drain valve fitted near the lowest point in the hull, which shall automatically open to drain water from the hull when the boat is not waterborne and shall automatically close to prevent entry of water when the boat is waterborne. Each drain valve shall be provided with a cap or plug to close the valve, which shall be attached to the boat by a lanyard, chain, or other suitable means. Drain valves shall be readily accessible and capable of being closed inside the boat and their position shall be clearly indicated.

4.2 All boats shall be provided with a rudder and tiller or other suitable means of steering. When a wheel or other remote steering mechanism is also provided the alternative means shall be capable of steering the boat in the case of failure of the steering mechanism. Except where the rudder and tiller forms part of an outboard engine the rudder shall be permanently attached to the boat and the tiller shall be permanently installed on or linked to the rudder stock. However, if the boat has a remote steering mechanism the tiller may be removable and securely stowed near the rudder stock. The steering arrangements shall be so arranged as not to be damaged by operation of the release mechanism or the propeller.

4.3 Except in the vicinity of the rudder, propeller or outboard engine, a buoyant lifeline shall be becketed around the outside of the boat.

4.4 Boats which are not self-righting when capsized shall have suitable handholds on the underside of the hull to enable persons to cling to the boat. The handholds shall be fastened to the boat in such a way that, when subjected to an impact sufficient to cause them to break away from the boat, they break away without damaging the boat.

4.5 Every boat to be launched by a fall or falls shall be fitted with a release mechanism complying with Part IV of this Schedule.

4.6 Every boat shall be fitted with a release device to enable the forward painter to be released when under tension.

4.7 Boats intended for launching down the side of a ship shall have skates and fenders as necessary to facilitate launching and prevent damage to the boat.

4.8 Unless expressly provided otherwise, every boat shall be provided with effective means of bailing or be automatically self-bailing.

5. Markings

5.1 The dimensions of the boat, the numbers of persons which it is permitted to accommodate, the maker's serial number, name or trade mark and the date of manufacture shall be marked on the boat in clear permanent characters.

5.2 The name and port of registry of the ship to which the boat belongs shall be marked on each side of the boat's bow in block capitals of the Roman alphabet.

5.3 Means of identifying the ship to which the boat belongs and the number of the boat shall be marked in such a way that they are visible from above.

6. Boat Equipment

6.1 All items of rescue boat equipment, with the exception of the boat-hook which shall be kept available for fending off purposes, shall be secured within the boat by lashing, storage in lockers or compartments, storage in brackets or similar mounting arrangements, or other suitable means. The equipment shall be secured in such a manner as not to interfere with any launching or recovery procedures. All items of boat equipment shall be as small and of as little mass as possible and shall be packed in suitable and compact form.

6.2 The equipment of every boat shall consist of:

.1 sufficient buoyant oars or paddles to make headway in calm seas; thole pins, crutches or equivalent arrangements shall be provided for each oar; thole pins or crutches shall be attached to the boat by lanyards or chains;

.2 a buoyant bailer;

.3 a binnacle containing an efficient compass complying with the requirements of Part V of the Seventh Schedule to these Rules which is luminous or provided with suitable means of illumination;

.4 a sea-anchor complying with the requirements of Part I of the said Seventh Schedule;

.5 a painter of sufficient length and strength, attached to the release device complying with the requirements of paragraph 4.6 and placed at the forward end of the boat;

.6 one buoyant line, not less than 50 metres in length, of sufficient strength to tow a liferaft as required by paragraph 2.15;

.7 one waterproof electric torch suitable for Morse signalling, together with one spare set of batteries and one spare bulb in a waterproof container;

.8 one whistle or equivalent sound signal;

.9 a first-aid outfit complying with the requirements of Part II of the said Seventh Schedule in a waterproof case capable of being closed tightly after use;

.10 two buoyant rescue quoits, attached to not less than 30 metres of buoyant line with a breaking strain of at least 1.0 kilonewtons;

.11 a searchlight capable of effectively illuminating a light-coloured object at night having a width of 18 metres at a distance of 180 metres for a total period of 6 hours and of working for at least 3 hours continuously;

.12 an efficient radar reflector;

.13 thermal protective aids sufficient for 10 per cent. of the number of persons the rescue boat is permitted to accommodate or two, whichever is the greater;

.14 a boat hook;

.15 a bucket;

.16 a knife or hatchet;

.17 a portable fire extinguisher.

7. Instructions and Information

7.1 Instructions and information required for inclusion in the training manual specified in Part I of the Twelfth Schedule to these Rules and in the instructions for on-board maintenance specified in Part II of the said Twelfth Schedule shall be in a form suitable for inclusion in such training manual and instructions for on-board maintenance. Instructions and information shall be in English in a clear and concise form and shall include the following:--

.1 general description of the boat and its equipment;

.2 installation arrangements;

.3 operational instructions including use of associated survival equipment;

.4 survival instructions;

.5 emergency repair instructions;

.6 deployment, boarding and launching instructions;

.7 method of launching from within the boat;

.8 release from launching appliance;

.9 on board maintenance requirements;

.10 servicing requirements;

.11 use of engine and accessories;

.12 recovery of boat including stowage and securing.

8. Access into boats

8.1 Every passenger ship rigid rescue boat shall be so arranged that it can be rapidly boarded by its rescue complement of persons. Rapid disembarkation shall also be possible.

8.2 Every cargo ship rigid rescue boat shall be so arranged that it can be boarded by its rescue complement of persons in not more than three minutes from the time the instruction to board is given. Rapid disembarkation shall also be possible.

Rules 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11 and 16.

PART II

RIGID INFLATED RESCUE BOATS

1. General

1.1 A rigid inflated rescue boat is a composite craft combining a rigid lower hull and inflated tubes fitted at the edge of the lower hull forming a watertight boundary.

1.2 All rigid inflated rescue boats shall comply with all the requirements of Part I of this Schedule with the exception of paragraphs 1.1 and 2.10.

2. Construction

2.1 The buoyancy of the boat shall be a combination of inherent and inflated buoyancy.

2.2 The inflated buoyancy tube shall be a single tube sub-divided into at least five separate compartments of approximately equal volume.

2.3 All boats shall have adequate inherent buoyancy or inherently buoyant material together with the inflatable compartments on one side (excluding the forward compartment) when inflated, sufficient to float the boat with all its equipment on board when flooded and open to the sea.

2.4 Additional inherent buoyancy equal to 140 newtons of buoyancy force per person shall be provided for the number of persons the boat is permitted to accommodate. This additional buoyancy shall not be installed externally to the rigid hull of the boat.

2.5 Inherently buoyant material shall not be adversely affected by seawater, oil or oil products.

2.6 The inflated buoyancy tubes shall comply with the requirements of paragraphs 2.20, 2.21 and 2.22 of Part III of this Schedule.

2.7 The inflated buoyancy tubes shall be maintained at all times in a fully inflated condition.

3. Markings

3.1 If any of the markings required by paragraph 5 of Part I of this Schedule are marked on the buoyancy tubes, the materials used to mark them shall be of a type which is compatible with the boat's coated fabric and approved by the boat manufacturer.

4. Equipment

4.1 In addition to the equipment required by paragraph 6.2 of Part I of this Schedule the following items are required:

.1 an efficient manually operated bellows or pump, and

.2 a repair kit in a suitable container for repairing punctures to the coated fabric of the buoyancy tubes.

Rules 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11 and 16.

PART III

INFLATED RESCUE BOATS

1. General

1.1 An inflated rescue boat is a craft combining a flexible lower hull and inflated tubes fitted at the edge of the lower hull together forming a watertight boundary and which relies solely on the buoyancy of the inflated tubes as the inherent buoyancy of the craft.

1.2 All inflated rescue boats prescribed in this Part shall:

.1 be constructed with proper workmanship and materials;

.2 not be damaged in stowage throughout the air temperature range -30 degrees centigrade to +65 degrees centigrade;

.3 be capable of operating throughout the seawater temperature range -1 degree centigrade to +30 degrees centigrade;

.4 be rot-proof, corrosion-resistant, and not be unduly affected by seawater, oil or fungal attack;

.5 be resistant to deterioration from exposure to sunlight;

.6 be of highly visible colour on all parts where this will assist detection;

.7 be fitted with retro-reflective material where this will assist in detection, and the dimensions and location of the material shall be to the satisfaction of the Minister;

.8 be capable of satisfactory operation in a sea environment.

2. Construction

2.1 All boats shall be properly constructed and shall be of such form and proportions that they have ample stability in a seaway and sufficient freeboard when loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment. All boats shall be capable of maintaining positive stability in an upright position in calm water when loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment and fully swamped,

2.2 All boats shall be of sufficient strength to:

.1 enable them to be safely lowered into the water when loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment; and

.2 be capable of being launched and towed when the ship is making headway at a speed of 5 knots in calm water.

2.3 Seating shall be provided on thwarts, benches or fixed chairs fitted as low as practicable in the boat and constructed so as to be capable of supporting the number of persons each weighing 100 kilogrammes for which spaces are provided in compliance with the requirements of paragraph 2.5.2.

2.4 Each boat shall be of sufficient strength to withstand, when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment and with, where applicable, skates or fenders in position, a lateral impact against the ship's side at an impact velocity of at least 3.5 metres per second and also a drop into the water from a height of at least 3 metres.

2.5 The number of persons which a boat shall be permitted to accommodate shall be equal to the lesser of:

.1 the number of persons having an average mass of 75 kilogrammes all wearing lifejackets, that can be seated in a normal position plus one person lying down without interfering with the means of propulsion or the operation of any of the boat's equipment; or

.2 the number of spaces that can be provided on the seating arrangements in accordance with Figure 2 (Fifteenth Schedule), plus one person lying down.

2.6 Each seating position shall be clearly indicated in the boat.

2.7 All boats shall have a boarding ladder that can be used on either side of the boat to enable persons in the water to board the boat. The lowest step of the ladder shall be weighted and float at a level not less than 0.4 metres below the boat's light waterline.

2.8 The boat shall be so arranged that helpless people can be brought on board either from the sea or on stretchers.

2.9 All surfaces on which persons might walk shall have a non-skid finish.

2.10 All boats, when loaded with 50 per cent. of the number of persons the boat is permitted to accommodate seated in their normal positions to one side of the centreline , shall have a freeboard, measured from the waterline to the lowest opening through which the boat may become flooded, of at least 1.5 per cent. of the boat's length or 100 millimetres whichever is the greater.

2.11 All boats shall:

.1 be not less than 3.8 metres and not more than 8.5 metres in length;

.2 be capable of carrying at least five seated persons and a person lying down.

2.12 Unless the boat has adequate sheer, it shall be provided with a bow cover of highly visible colour extending for not less than 15 per cent. of its length and shall be angled upwards to deflect water and spray.

2.13 Boats shall be capable of manoeuvring at speed of at least 6 knots and maintaining a speed of 6 knots for a period of at least 4 hours.

2.14 Boats shall have sufficient mobility and manoeuvrability in a seaway to enable persons to be retrieved from the water, marshal liferafts and tow the largest liferaft carried on the ship, when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment, or its equivalent, at a speed of at least 2 knots.

2.15 The boat shall be fitted with an inboard or outboard engine complying with the relevant parts of paragraph 3.

2.16 Arrangements for towing shall be permanently fitted in boats and shall be sufficiently strong to marshal or tow liferafts as required by paragraph 2.14.

2.17 All boats shall be fitted with weathertight stowage for small items of equipment.

2.18 An inflated rescue boat shall be constructed in such a way that, when suspended by its bridle or lifting hook:

.1 it is of sufficient strength and rigidity to enable it to be lowered and recovered with its full complement of persons and equipment;

.2 it is of sufficient strength to withstand a load of 1.1 times the mass of its full complement of persons and equipment at an ambient temperature of -30 degrees centigrade with all relief valves operative;

.3 it is of sufficient strength to withstand a load of four times the mass of its full complement of persons and equipment at an ambient temperature of 20 degrees centigrade with all relief valves inoperative.

2.19 Inflated rescue boats shall be so constructed as to be capable of withstanding exposure:

.1 when stowed on an open deck on a ship at sea;

.2 for 30 days afloat in all sea conditions.

2.20 The buoyancy of an inflated rescue boat shall be provided by either a single tube subdivided into at least five separate compartments of approximately equal volume or two separate tubes neither exceeding 60 per cent. of the total volume. The buoyancy tubes shall be so arranged that, in the event of any one of the compartments being damaged, the intact compartments shall be able to support, with positive freeboard over the boat's entire periphery, the number of persons which the boat is permitted to accommodate, each having a mass of 75 kilogrammes, and seated in their normal positions.

2.21 The buoyancy tubes forming the boundary of the inflated rescue boat shall on inflation provide a volume of not less than 0.17 cubic metres for each person the rescue boat is permitted to accommodate and the diameter of the main buoyancy chamber must be at least 0.43 metres.

2.22 Each buoyancy compartment shall be fitted with a non-return valve for manual inflation and means for deflation. A safety relief valve shall also be fitted to each buoyancy compartment.

2.23 When inverted in the water a boat shall be capable of being righted by not more than two persons.

2.24 Rubbing strips shall be provided underneath the bottom and on vulnerable places on the outside of the inflated rescue boat.

2.25 Where a transom is fitted it shall not be inset by more than 20 per cent. of the overall length of the inflated rescue boat.

2.26 Suitable patches shall be provided for securing painters forward and aft and becketed lifelines inside and outside the boat.

2.27 The inflated rescue boat shall be maintained at all times in a fully inflated condition.

2.28 All boats shall be fitted with a protective stowage cover and shall be kept covered at all times when the boat is not in use. The cover shall be arranged for quick removal in an emergency.

3. Inflated rescue boat propulsion

3.1 Inboard Engine

.1 Where a boat is powered by an inboard engine it shall be of the compression ignition type. No engine shall be used for any boat if its fuel has a flashpoint of 43 degrees centigrade or less (Closed Cup Test) and the engine shall:

.1 be provided with either a manual starting system, or a power starting system with two independent rechargeable energy sources. Any necessary starting aids shall also be provided; the engine starting systems and starting aids shall start the engine at an ambient temperature of --15 degrees centigrade within two minutes of commencing the start procedure unless, in the opinion of the Minister having regard to the particular voyages in which the ship carrying the boat is constantly engaged, a different temperature is appropriate; the starting systems shall not be impeded by the engine casing thwarts or other obstructions;

.2 be capable of operating for not less than five minutes after starting from cold with the boat out of the water; and

.3 be capable of operating when the boat is flooded up to the centreline of the crank shaft.

3.2 Outboard Engine

.1 A petrol-driven outboard engine with an approved fuel system may be fitted to a boat provided the tank is specially protected against fire and explosion.

.2 A petrol engine shall be provided with either a manual starting system, or a power starting system. Any necessary starting aids shall also be provided. The engine starting systems and starting aids shall start the engine at an ambient temperature of -- 15 degrees centigrade within two minutes of commencing the start procedure unless, in the opinion of the Minister having regard to the particular voyages in which the ship carrying the boat is constantly engaged, a different temperature is appropriate; the starting systems shall not be impeded by the engine casing, thwarts or other obstructions.

3.3 Unless the propeller is so arranged so as to avoid its rotation constituting a danger to people in the water adjacent to it the drive arrangement between the prime mover and the propeller shall be such that the propeller can be brought to rest without stopping the prime mover. Provision shall be made for ahead and astern propulsion of the craft.

3.4 The exhaust pipe shall be so arranged as to prevent water from entering the engine in normal operation.

3.5 All boats shall be designed with due regard to the safety of persons in the water and to the possibility of damage to the propulsion system by floating debris.

3.6 The boat engine, transmission and engine accessories shall be enclosed in a fire-retardant casing or other suitable arrangements providing similar protection. Such arrangements shall also protect persons from coming into accidental contact with hot or moving parts and protect the engine from exposure to weather and sea. Adequate means shall be provided to reduce the engine noise. Starter batteries shall be provided with casings which form a watertight enclosure around the bottom and sides of the batteries. The battery casings shall have a tight fitting top which provides for necessary gas venting.

3.7 The boat engine and accessories shall be designed to limit electromagnetic emissions so that engine operation does not interfere with the operation of radio life-saving appliances used in the boat.

3.8 Means shall be provided for recharging all engine-starting, searchlight and, when fitted, radio batteries. Radio batteries shall not be used to provide power for engine starting. Means shall be provided for recharging rescue boat batteries from the ship's power supply. The electric power supply connection from the ship to any inflated rescue boat shall be at a voltage of not exceeding 55 volts direct current or 55 volts root mean square alternating current and shall be capable of being disconnected automatically at the rigid rescue boat embarkation station.

3.9 Water-resistant instructions for starting and operating the engine shall be provided and mounted in a conspicious place near the engine starting controls.

4. Boat fittings

4.1 All boats shall be provided with at least one drain valve fitted near the lowest point in the hull, which shall automatically open to drain water from the hull when the boat is not waterborne and shall automatically close to prevent entry of water when the boat is waterborne. Each drain valve shall be readily provided with a cap or plug to close the valve, which shall be attached to the boat by a lanyard, chain, or other suitable means. Drain valves shall be readily accessible and capable of being closed inside the boat and their position shall be clearly indicated.

4.2 All boats shall be provided with a rudder and tiller or other suitable means of steering. When a wheel or other remote steering mechanism is also provided the alternative means shall be capable of steering the boat in the case of failure of the steering mechanism. Except where the rudder and tiller forms part of an outboard engine the rudder shall be permanently attached to the boat and the tiller shall be permanently installed on or linked to the rudder stock. However, if the boat has a remote steering mechanism the tiller may be removable and securely stowed near the rudder stock. The steering arrangements shall be so arranged as not to be damaged by operation of the release mechanism or the propeller.

4.3 Except in the vicinity of the rudder, propeller or outboard engine, a buoyant lifeline shall be becketed around the outside of the boat.

4.4 Boats which are not self-righting when capsized shall have suitable handholds on the underside of the hull to enable persons to cling to the boat. The handholds shall be fastened to the boat in such a way that, when subjected to an impact sufficient to cause them to break away from the boat, they break away without damaging the boat.

4.5 Every boat to be launched by a fall or falls shall be fitted with a release mechanism complying with Part IV of this Schedule.

4.6 Every boat shall be fitted with a release device to enable the forward painter to be released when under tension.

4.7 Boats intended for launching down the side of a ship shall have skates and fenders as necessary to facilitate launching and prevent damage to the boat.

4.8 Unless expressly provided otherwise, every boat shall be provided with effective means of bailing or be automatically self-bailing.

5. Markings

5.1 The dimensions of the boat, the number of persons which it is permitted to accommodate, the maker's serial number, name or trade mark and the date of manufacture shall be marked on the boat in clear permanent characters.

5.2 The name and port of registry of the ship to which the boat belongs shall be marked on each side of the boat's bow in block capitals of the Roman alphabet.

5.3 Means of identifying the ship to which the boat belongs and the number of the boat shall be marked in such a way that they are visible from above.

5.4 All materials used to mark an inflated rescue boat shall be of a type which is compatible with the boat's coated fabric and approved by the boat manufacturer.

6. Boat Equipment

6.1 All items of rescue boat equipment, with the exception of the boat-hook which shall be kept available for fending off purposes, shall be secured within the boat by lashing, storage in lockers or compartments, storage in brackets or similar mounting arrangements, or other suitable means. The equipment shall be secured in such a manner as not to interfere with any launching or recovery procedures. All items of boat equipment shall be as small and of as little mass as possible and shall be packed in suitable and compact form.

6.2 The equipment of every boat shall consist of:

.1 sufficient buoyant oars or paddles to make headway in calm seas; thole pins, crutches or equivalent arrangements shall be provided for each oar; thole pins or crutches shall be attached to the boat by lanyards or chains;

.2 a buoyant bailer;

.3 a binnacle containing an efficient compass complying with the requirement of Part V of the Seventh Schedule to these Rules which is luminous or provided with suitable means of illumination;

.4 a sea-anchor complying with the requirements of Part I of the said Seventh Schedule;

.5 a painter of sufficient length and strength, attached to the release device complying with the requirements of paragraph 4.6 and placed at the forward end of the boat;

.6 one buoyant line, not less than 50 metres in length, of sufficient strength to a liferaft as required by paragraph 2.14;

.7 one waterproof electric torch suitable for Morse signalling, together with one spare set of batteries and one spare bulb in a waterproof container;

.8 one whistle or equivalent sound signal;

.9 a first-aid outfit complying with the requirements of Part II of the Seventh Schedule to these Rules in a waterproof case capable of being closed tightly after use;

.10 two buoyant rescue quoits, attached to not less than 30 metres of buoyant line with a breaking strain of at least 1.0 kilonewtons;

.11 a searchlight capable of effectively illuminating a light-coloured object at night having a width of 18 metres at a distance of 180 metres for a total period of 6 hours and of working for at least 3 hours continuously;

.12 an efficient radar reflector;

.13 thermal protective aids sufficient for 10 per cent. of the number of persons the rescue boat is permitted to accommodate or two, whichever is the greater.

.14 a boat hook;

.15 a bucket;

.16 a knife or hatchet;

.17 a portable fire extinguisher.

7. Instructions and Information

7.1 Instructions and information required for inclusion in the training manual specified in Part I of the Twelfth Schedule to these Rules and in the instructions for on-board maintenance specified in Part II of the said Twelfth Schedule shall be in a form suitable for inclusion in such training manual and instructions for on-board maintenance. Instructions and information shall be in English in a clear and concise form and shall include the following:--

.1 general description of the boat and its equipment;

.2 installation arrangements;

.3 operational instructions including use of associated survival equipment;

.4 survival instructions;

.5 emergency repair instructions;

.6 deployment, boarding and launching instructions;

.7 method of launching from within the boat;

.8 release from launching appliance;

.9 on board maintenance requirements;

.10 servicing requirements;

.11 use of engine and accessories;

.12 recovery of boat including stowage and securing.

8. Access into boats

8.1 Every passenger ship inflated rescue boat shall be so arranged that it can be rapidly boarded by its rescue complement of persons. Rapid disembarkation shall also be possible.

8.2 Every cargo ship inflated rescue boat shall be so arranged that it can be boarded by its rescue complement of persons in not more than three minutes from the time the instruction to board is given. Rapid disembarkation shall also be possible.

Second Schedule, Parts I, II, and III.

PART IV

RESCUE BOAT DISENGAGING GEAR

1. Except in the case of single point suspension the rescue boat disengaging gear shall be so arranged that all hooks are released simultaneously on the operation of the control mechanism.

2. The means of effecting release shall be placed near the coxwain's position.

3. The gear shall have two release capabilities:

.1 a normal release capability which will release the rescue boat only when it is waterborne or when there is no load on the hook(s);

.2 an on-load release capability which will release the rescue boat with a load on the hook(s). This release shall be so arranged as to release the rescue boat under any condition of loading from no load with the rescue boat waterborne to a load of 1.1 times the total mass of the rescue boat when loaded with its full certified complement of persons and equipment. This release shall be adequately protected against accidental or premature use.

4. The means of connection between the hook(s) safety device and the operating level or release unit shall:

. 1 be arranged and led so as to ensure the efficient operation of the gear;

.2 wherever necessary, be properly cased in for the safety or efficient action of the gear or for the protection of persons from injury; and

.3 where cased in, means shall be provided for lubricating this equipment.

5. The release control(s) are to be clearly marked in a colour that contrasts with its surroundings, and a suitably worded instruction plate indicating the method of safe operation of the gear shall be provided.

6. Such parts of the gear as would otherwise be likely to be set fast by rust or corrosion shall be made of non-corrodible metal.

7. The mechanism shall be designed with a factor of safety of six based on the ultimate strength of the materials used, assuming that the mass of the rescue boat is equally distributed.

THIRD SCHEDULE

Rules 2, 7, 8, 10, 11 and 16.

INFLATED BOATS

1. General

1.1 An inflated rescue boat is a craft combining a flexible lower hull and inflated tubes fitted at the edge of the lower hull together forming a watertight boundary and which relies solely on the buoyancy of the inflated tubes as the inherent buoyancy of the craft.

1.2 All inflated rescue boats prescribed in this Schedule shall:

.1 be constructed with proper workmanship and materials;

.2 not be damaged in stowage throughout the air temperature range -30 degrees centigrade to +65 degrees centigrade;

.3 be capable of operating throughout the seawater temperature range -1 degree centigrade to +30 degrees centigrade;

.4 be rot-proof, corrosion-resistant, and not be unduly affected by seawater, oil or fungal attack;

.5 be resistant to deterioration from exposure to sunlight;

.6 be of highly visible colour on all parts where this will assist detection;

.7 be fitted with retro-reflective material where this will assist in detection and the dimensions and location of the material shall be to the satisfaction of the Minister;

.8 be capable of satisfactory operation in a sea environment.

2. Construction

2.1 All boats shall be properly constructed and shall be of such form and proportions that they have ample stability in a seaway and sufficient freeboard when loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment. All boats shall be capable of maintaining positive stability in an upright position in calm water when loaded with their full complement of persons and equipment and fully swamped.

2.2 All boats shall be of sufficient strength to enable them to be safely lowered into the water when loaded with all their equipment and a crew of two persons.

2.3 At least one portable thwart shall be fitted to enable the boat to be rowed satisfactorily.

2.4 Each boat shall be of sufficient strength to withstand, when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment and with, where applicable, skates or fenders in a position, a lateral impact against the ship's side at an impact velocity of at least 3.5 metres per second and also a drop into the water from a height of at least 3 metres.

2.5 The number of persons which a boat shall be permitted to accommodate shall be equal to the lesser of:

.1 the number of persons having an average mass of 75 kilogrammes, all wearing lifejackets, that can be seated in a normal position plus one person lying down; all persons must be seated inboard of the buoyancy tubes and shall not interfere with the means of propulsion or the operation of any of the boat's equipment; or

.2 the number of spaces that can be provided on the seating arrangements in accordance with Figure 2 in the Fifteenth Schedule, plus one person lying down.

2.6 Each seating position shall be clearly indicated in the boat.

2.7 All boats shall have a boarding ladder that can be used on either side of the boat to enable persons in the water to board the boat. The lowest step of the ladder shall be weighted and float at a level not less than 0.4 metres below the boat's light waterline.

2.8 The boat shall be so arranged that helpless people can be brought on board either from the sea or on stretchers.

2.9 All surfaces on which persons might walk shall have a non-skid finish.

2.10 All inflated boats, when loaded with 50 per cent. of the number of persons the boat is permitted to accommodate seated in their normal positions to one side of the centreline, shall have a freeboard, measured from the waterline to the lowest opening through which the boat may become flooded, of at least 1.5 per cent. of the boat's length or 100 millimetres whichever is the greater.

2.11 An inflated boat shall:

.1 be not less than 3.8 metres and not more than 8.5 metres in length; and

.2 be capable of carrying at least three persons and a person lying down.

2.12 Unless the boat has adequate sheer, it shall be provided with a bow cover of highly visible colour extending for not less than 15 per cent. of its length, and shall be angled upwards to deflect water and spray.

2.13 Boats shall be capable of manoeuvring at speeds of at least 6 knots in calm water with two persons on board, and maintaining a speed of 6 knots for a period of at least 2 hours.

2.14 Boats shall have sufficient mobility and manoeuvrability in a seaway to enable persons to be retrieved from the water, marshal liferafts, and tow the largest liferaft carried on the ship when loaded with its full complement of persons and equipment, or its equivalent, at a speed of at least 2 knots.

2.15 The boat shall be fitted with an outboard engine having a maximum power of ten horse power complying with the requirements of paragraph 3.

2.16 Arrangements for towing shall be permanently fitted in boats and shall be sufficiently strong to marshal or tow liferafts as required by paragraph 2.14.

2.17 Boats shall be fitted with watertight stowage for small items of equipment.

2.18 A boat shall be constructed in such a way that, when suspended by its bridle or lifting hook;

.1 it is of sufficient strength and rigidity to enable it to be lowered and recovered with all its equipment and a crew of two persons;

.2 it is of sufficient strength to withstand a load of 1.1 times the mass of its equipment and a crew of two persons at an ambient temperature of -30 degrees centigrade with all relief valves operative;

.3 it is of sufficient strength to withstand a load of four times the mass of its equipment and a crew of two persons at an ambient temperature of 20 3 degrees centigrade with all relief valves inoperative.

2.19 Inflated boats shall be constructed as to be capable of withstanding exposure:

.1 when stowed on an open deck on a ship at sea;

.2 for 30 days afloat in all sea conditions.

2.20 The buoyancy of an inflated boat shall be provided by either a single tube subdivided into at least five separate compartments of approximately equal volume or two separate tubes neither exceeding 60 per cent. of the total volume. The buoyancy tubes shall be so arranged that, in the event of any one of the compartments being damaged, the intact compartments shall be able to support, with positive freeboard over the boat's entire periphery, the number of persons which the inflated boat is permitted to accommodate, each having a mass of 75 kilogrammes and seated in their normal positions.

2.21 The buoyancy tubes forming the boundary of the inflated boat shall on inflation provide a volume of not less than 0.17 cubic metres for each person the boat is permitted to accommodate, and the diameter of the main buoyancy chamber must be at least 0.43 metres.

2.22 Each buoyancy compartment shall be fitted with a non-return valve for manual inflation and means for deflation. A safety relief valve designed to operate at a pressure not exceeding 125 per cent. of the designed working pressure of the buoyancy chamber shall also be fitted to each buoyancy compartment.

2.23 When inverted in the water an inflated boat shall be capable of being righted by not more than two persons.

2.24 Rubbing strips shall be provided underneath the bottom and on vulnerable places on the outside of the boat.

2.25 Where a transom is fitted it shall not be inset by more than 20 per cent. of the overall length of the inflated boat.

2.26 Suitable patches shall be provided for securing painters forward and aft and becketed lifelines inside and outside the boat.

2.27 The boat shall be maintained at all times in a fully inflated condition.

2.28 All inflated boats shall be fitted with a protective stowage cover and shall be kept covered at all times when the boat is not in use. The cover should be arranged for quick removal in an emergency.

3. Boat Propulsion

3.1 A petrol-driven outboard engine with an approved fuel system may be fitted to an inflated boat provided the tank is specially protected against fire and explosion.

3.2 A petrol engine shall be provided with a manual starting system. The engine starting system shall start the engine at an ambient temperature of -- 15 degrees centigrade within two minutes of commencing the start procedure. The starting system shall not be impeded by the engine casing, thwarts or other obstructions.

3.3 Unless the propeller is so arranged so as to avoid its rotation constituting a danger to people in the water adjacent to it the drive arrangement between the prime mover and the propeller shall be such that the propeller can be brought to rest without stopping the prime mover. Provision shall be made for ahead and astern propulsion of the boat.

3.4 The exhaust pipe shall be so arranged as to prevent water from entering the engine in normal operation.

3.5 The boat engine and accessories shall be designed to limit electromagnetic emissions so that engine operation does not interfere with the operation of radio life-saving appliances used in the boat.

3.6 Water-resistant instructions for starting and operating the engine shall be provided and mounted in a conspicuous place near the engine starting controls.

4. Boat Fittings

4.1 All boats shall be provided with at least one drain valve fitted near the lowest point in the hull, which shall automatically open to drain water from the hull when the boat is not waterborne and shall automatically close to prevent entry of water when the boat is waterborne. Each drain valve shall be provided with a cap or plug to close the valve, which shall be attached to the boat by a lanyard, a chain, or other suitable means. Drain valves shall be readily accessible and capable of being closed from inside the boat and their position shall be clearly indicated.

4.2 Except in the vicinity of the outboard engine, a buoyant lifeline shall be becketed around the inside and outside of the boat.

4.3 Boats which are not self-righting when capsized shall have suitable handholds on the underside of the hull to enable persons to cling to the boat. The handholds shall be fastened to the boat in such a way that, when subjected to an impact sufficient to cause them to break away from the boat, they break away without damaging the boat.

4.4 A boat shall be capable of being launched by means of a launching appliance complying with the requirements of Part IV of the Sixth Schedule to these Rules.

4.5 Unless expressly provided otherwise, every boat shall be provided with effective means of bailing or be automatically self-bailing.

5. Lifting Arrangements

5.1 Bridle slinging arrangements shall be fitted to enable the boat to be lowered or raised from the water. The bridle sling shall comprise at least four legs which should be joined at the top in the form of an eye or be connected to a lifting ring or shackle. The arrangement shall be such that the boat is stable when suspended and either:--

.1 the length of the legs are of equal length; or

.2 the bridle is permanently attached; or

.3 it is not possible to connect any of the bridle legs to the wrong position in the boat.

5.2 The bridle shall be manufactured of a material which will not adversely affect the material of the boat and, if necessary, shall be sheathed to prevent abrasion of the fabric.

5.3 The forward lifting attachments shall be securely fastened to the hull and may be bands passing under the hull to the tops of the buoyancy tubes terminating in D rings or eyes to take bridle slings.

5.4 The after lifting attachments shall be similar to the forward attachments or may be made directly to the transom.

5.5 The bridle slinging arrangements used for lowering and recovering the boat shall be such that the breaking tensile strength is at least six times the sum of the mass of the boat, its full equipment and a crew of two persons each of mass 75 kilogrammes.

5.6 The bridle sling lifting arrangements shall be proof tested to not less than four times their respective working loads. The proof testing can be carried out either:

.1 individually on each item associated with the lifting arrangements or

.2 on the assembly of a structurally completed boat with its lifting arrangement and particular bridle sling. In each case fabric, webbings and cordage's forming part of the lifting arrangements shall have a breaking strength of not less than six times their respective working loads.

6. Markings

6.1 The dimensions of the boat, the number of persons which it is permitted to accommodate, the makers serial number, name or trade mark and the date of manufacture shall be marked on the boat in clear permanent characters.

6.2 The name and port of registry of the ship to which the boat belongs shall be marked on each side of the boat's bow in block capitals of the Roman alphabet.

6.3 Means of identifying the ship to which the boat belongs and the number of the boat shall be marked in such a way that they are visible from above.

6.4 All materials used to mark an inflated boat shall be of a type which is compatible with the boat's coated fabric and approved by the boat manufacturer.

7. Boat equipment

7.1 All items of boat equipment with the exception of the boat hook which shall be kept available for fending off purposes shall be secured within the boat by lashings, storage in lockers or compartments, storage in brackets or similar mounting arrangements, of other suitable means. The equipment shall be secured in such a manner as not to interfere with any launching or recovery procedures. All items of boat equipment shall be as small and of as little mass as possible and shall be packed in suitable and compact form.

7.2 The equipment of every boat shall consist of:

.1 at least two buoyant oars or paddles to make headway in calm seas; crutches or equivalent arrangements shall be provided for each oar; and shall be permanently attached to the boat;

.2 a buoyant bailer;

.3 a sea-anchor complying with the requirements of Part I of the Seventh Schedule to these Rules;

.4 one buoyant line, not less than 50 metres in length, of sufficient strength to tow a liferaft as required by paragraph 2.14;

.5 a painter 20 metres in length;

.6 one waterproof electric torch suitable for Morse signalling, together with one spare set of batteries and one spare bulb in a waterproof container;

.7 one whistle or equivalent sound signal;

.8 a first aid outfit in a waterproof case capable of being closed tightly after use; and complying with the requirements of Part II of the said Seventh Schedule;

.9 two buoyant rescue quoits, attached to not less than 30 metres of buoyant line with a breaking strain of at least 1.0 kilonewtons;

.10 thermal protective aids sufficient for 10 per cent. of the number of persons the boat is permitted to accommodate or two, whichever is the greater;

.11 a buoyant safety knife;

.12 two sponges;

.13 an efficient manually operated bellows or pump;

.14 a repair kit in a suitable container for repairing punctures;

.15 a safety boat hook; and

.16 a portable fire extinguisher.

8. Instructions and Information

8.1 Instructions and information required for inclusion in the training manual specified in Part I of the Twelfth Schedule to these Rules and in the instructions for on-board maintenance specified in Part II of the said Twelfth Schedule shall be in a form suitable for inclusion in such training manual and instructions for on-board maintenance. Instructions and information shall be in English in a clear and concise form and shall include the following:

.1 general description of the boat and its equipment;

.2 installation arrangements;

.3 operational instructions including use of equipment;

.4 emergency repair instructions;

.5 deployment, boarding and launching instructions;

.6 release from launching appliance;

.7 on board maintenance requirements;