1 Definition
Simulated launching carried out during drills, in accordance with SOLAS
regulation III/19, is a means of training the crew in the
free-fall release procedure of free-fall lifeboats without the physical activation
of the release mechanism.
2 Purpose and scope
The purpose of these Guidelines is to provide a basic outline of
essential steps to safely carry out simulated launching. These Guidelines are
general; the lifeboat manufacturer's instruction manual should always be consulted
before conducting simulated launching. Simulated launching should only be carried
out with lifeboats and launching appliances designed to accommodate it, and for
which the manufacturer has provided instructions. All persons involved should be
familiar with the manufacturers’ instructions and the activation of the release
mechanism. Manuals, posters and signs may be used to assist familiarization and the
conduct of drills. Simulated launching should be carried out under the supervision
of a responsible person who should be an officer experienced in such procedures and
be conducted without the physical activation of the free-fall release system.
Testing of release systems should be separate to and not carried out during
simulated launching drills.
3 Conduct of drills – typical simulated launching sequence (SOLAS
regulation III/19)
3.1 Check equipment and documentation to ensure that all components of
the lifeboat and launching appliance are in good operational condition.
3.2 Ensure that all personnel involved in the drill are familiar with the
operating manuals, posters and signs.
3.3 Ensure that the restraining device(s) provided by the manufacturer
for simulated launching are installed and secure and that the free-fall release
mechanism is fully and correctly engaged.
3.4 Establish and maintain good communication between the assigned
operating crew and the responsible person.
3.5 Disengage lashings, gripes, etc. installed to secure the lifeboat for
sea or for maintenance, except those required for simulated free-fall.
3.6 Participating crew board the lifeboat and fasten their seatbelts
under the supervision of the responsible person.
3.7 All crew disembark the lifeboat.
3.8 Return the lifeboat to the condition it was in prior to step provided
in paragraph 3.4. Ensure that the lifeboat is returned to its normal stowed
condition. Remove any restraining and/or recovery devices used only for the
simulated launch procedure.