LIFEBOAT LOWERING PROCEDURE

1. First I have to put plug.
2. Disconnect battery charger connection (if engine is motor starting).
3. Pass FWD & AFT painter as required (depend upon on ships freeboard)
4. Then I have to open all lashing or grips. (3 for open type L/B, 2 for others usually)
5. Check tricing pendant is in position.
6. Check ship side clearance.
7. Lower down embarkation ladder.
8. Remove harbour safety pin. (elbow type or hook type)
9. Remove safety pin of main brake/dead man handle.
10. I have to lift the dead man handle.
11. As a result boat will come upto embarkation deck.
12. Persons embark inside the boat.
13. Now remove tricing pendant & made fast bowsing tackle.
14. Boat is further lowered by deadman handle.
15. Release bowsing tackle.
16. Before releasing the boat start engine.
17. When boat up to water level & ensure no load on the wire.
18. Hook to be released (miles pattern release – for on load release)                                   (manual release – for off load release)
19. Give propeller movement, then let go painter.

Various info
* Lifeboat lowering equipment consist of dog clutch, gearbox, motor etc. 
* Motor gear is engaged with spur gear, dead man brake in first set of reduction and centrifugal brake in the spurs.

• Centrifugal brake:
• Works when dog clutch is taken out & the drum is free.

* Speed control but unable to stop full loaded boat.

* Dead man brake/handle:  - Stop when person wants.

* Limit switch: ensure they cut power to the winch prior to davit arms touching their stops.
Lifeboat Regulation: (SOLAS)

1. Monthly – lowering with all person.
2. 3 monthly – lowering to water, hook release & run the lifeboat. (if 25% crew changed, then this drill should within 12 hrs)
3. Annually – servicing via shore party.
4. Lifeboat should capable to drawn within 5 min.
5. Engine – every week at least 3 min. (with FWD & AFT movement)
6. Engine speed – 6 knot, (liferaft – 3 knot,  - 24 HRS running oil.
7. Lifeboat have following important items, including –

1)     SART – Search & Rescue Rudder Transponder (send 9 GHz eco)

2)     Signaling mirror

3)     Rudder deflector

4)     EPERB

5)     Hand flare – 06

6)     Rocket flare – 04

7)     Buoyant smoke signal - 02