What's new with SOLAS 2024 ? (Life-saving appliances)

Life-saving appliances

Various adjustments have been made to SOLAS Chapter III and the associated Life-Saving Appliances (LSA) Code:

• The launching appliance of new rescue boats less than 700 kg does not need to have stored mechanical power, but handling shall be possible by one person.
• Free-fall lifeboats will not need to be launch-tested with the ship making headway at speeds of up to 5 knots in calm water, as there are no additional dynamic loads on the launching arrangements.
• Lifeboats equipped with two independent propulsions systems do not need to be equipped with buoyant oars.

The amendments will apply to cargo and passenger ships and enter into force on 1 January 2024. Flag states are invited to voluntarily apply the launch test provisions for free-fall lifeboats earlier.