The Greek Government has notified ClassNK of instructions in relation to measures for safety boat drills.

The followings are the notice for Masters and Crew members.

1. It is to be considered that very seriously all aspects concerning use of life-saving appliances, especially during the Boat Drills, as well as, weather conditions, means for communications between crew members during the drills, in order to perform such drills safely.

2. Especially for the cases where lifeboats are provided with on-load release gears, all necessary checks as per SOLAS requirements, are to be carefully carried out.

3. It is very important all crew members to be provided with detailed manufacturers' instructions for proper use and maintenance of life-saving appliances.

4. All shipping companies should adopt such instructions in their SMS.

5. The followings of appropriate parts of IMO Circular MSC/Circ. 1049 are to be ensured:

(1) on-load release equipment used on ships flying their flag is in full compliance with the requirements of paragraph 4.4.7.6.2.2 of the LSA Code;

(2) all appropriate documentation for the maintenance and adjustment of lifeboats, launching appliances and associated equipment is available on board;

(3) personnel undertaking inspections, maintenance and adjustment of lifeboats, launching appliances and associated equipment are fully trained and familiar with these duties;

(4) maintenance of lifeboats, launching appliances and associated equipment is carried out in accordance with approved established procedures;

(To be continued)
(5) lifeboat drills are conducted in accordance with SOLAS regulation III/19.3.3 for the purpose of ensuring that ship's personnel will be able to safely embark and launch the lifeboats in an emergency;

(6) the principles of safety and health at work apply to drills as well;

(7) personnel undertaking maintenance and repair activities are appropriately qualified; and

(8) hanging-off pennants should only be used for maintenance purposes and not during training exercises.


For any questions about the above, please contact:

NIPPON KAIJI KYOKAI (ClassNK)
Material and Equipment Department, Administration Center, Head Office
Address: 4-7 Kioi-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-8567, Japan
Tel.: +81-3-5226-2020
Fax: +81-3-5226-2057
E-mail: eqd@classnk.or.jp