4.5.1 Partially enclosed lifeboats shall comply
with the requirements of section 4.4 and
in addition shall comply with the requirements of this section.
4.5.2 Partially enclosed lifeboats shall be provided
with permanently attached rigid covers extending over not less than
20% of the length of the lifeboat from the stem and not less than
20% of the length of the lifeboat from the aftermost part of the lifeboat.
The lifeboat shall be fitted with a permanently attached foldable
canopy which together with the rigid covers completely encloses the
occupants of the lifeboat in a weatherproof shelter and protects them
from exposure. The lifeboat shall have entrances at both ends and
on each side. Entrances in the rigid covers shall be weathertight
when closed. The canopy shall be so arranged that:
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.1 it is provided with adequate rigid sections
or battens to permit erection of the canopy;
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.2 it can be easily erected by not more than two
persons;
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.3 it is insulated to protect the occupants against
heat and 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;
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.4 its exterior is of a highly visible colour
and its interior is of a colour which does not cause discomfort to
the occupants;
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.5 entrances in the canopy are 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 closed position;
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.6 with the entrances closed, it admits sufficient
air for the occupants at all times;
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.7 it has means for collecting rainwater;
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.8 the occupants can escape in the event of the
lifeboat capsizing.
4.5.3 The interior of the lifeboat shall be of
a light colour which does not cause discomfort to the occupants.
4.5.4 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.
No separate cabin is required if the construction of the lifeboat
provides a sheltered space to the satisfaction of the Administration.