D-NPS.SP.26

Annually: operational test of on-load release gear by positioning the boat partially in water for load support by fall, actuation of release gear, reset and inspection for damage. Every 5 years: overhaul of release system with 110% proof-load test. Inspect release gear before and after operational test; verify hook securing and reset.

Monthly: visual inspection for fraying, kinks, corrosion, broken strands. Annually: wire rope and sheaves for scratches, dents, corrosion, missing lubrication. Every 5 years: wire rope replacement per SOLAS Chapter III required. Lubrication of wires, sheaves and moving parts to be checked.

Annually: brake test by suspension of rated load and verification that brake holds without slippage. For centrifugal brakes: sinking speed against SOLAS formula (max. 1.3 m/s) to be checked. Brake pads to be inspected and replaced when worn. Every 5 years: brake system to be opened and condition thoroughly checked.

Annually: sheaves for wear grooves, wear ring wear, corrosion, incorrect alignment, loose bolts to be checked. A worn or corroded sheave damages new wires and leads to premature wire rope failure. Wear ring thickness to be measured and replaced if necessary. Lubrication to be checked.

Annually: davit structure for corrosion (especially welds), wear, deformation, excessive clearance, cracks to be checked. All bolt locking devices to be verified. Hydraulic cylinders for leakage to be checked. Every 5 years: selective disassembly with NDT (roughness inspection, crack inspection) to be performed. Foundations to be inspected.

Annually: dynamic winch brake test at 110% of Safe Working Load to be performed (simulated by water bag equipment or certified load cells). Every 5 years: comprehensive proof-load test of entire davit, winch, wire rope and hook system at 110% SWL to be performed. System must hold load, show no deformation or damage.