Surviva 25 Person Davit Launch

Common issues

• Hydrostatic release unit (HRU) reaching its expiry date without renewal
• Painter line or weak link deterioration
• Container seal/gasket degradation allowing water ingress
• Cradle or securing lashing corrosion making the raft difficult to release
• Inflation gas cylinder pressure loss between services
• Davit-launch attachment/bridle wear

Inspection checklist

• Check the service-due date and HRU expiry date marked on the unit
• Visually check the container for cracks, band corrosion and secure stowage
• Confirm the painter line is correctly secured to a strong point and not entangled
• Check the cradle release mechanism operates freely without excessive force
• Verify the davit-launch attachment/lifting bridle condition
• Confirm the raft's rated weight matches the davit's safe working load
• Check the hydrostatic release unit type and expiry, typically renewed every 2 years

Service intervals

Typical wear limits

Ranges are typical for this design class. Always confirm against the manufacturer documentation for your serial number.

Critical spares

• Hydrostatic release unit of the correct type for the raft's weight class
• Painter line/weak link assembly
• Service-exchange inflation gas cylinder
• Container securing straps/bands
• Raft-specific fabric repair kit (carried inside the raft canister)

Safety

• The raft container must never be opened or serviced onboard - only an approved service station may do this
• The inflation cylinder is under pressure - do not tamper with it
• Crush/impact hazard during davit launch drills - trained crew only, area below kept clear
• An expired HRU can prevent automatic float-free release and is a critical safety item to verify at every inspection

Class survey

Life rafts are surveyed under SOLAS III requirements with annual service at an approved station and HRU expiry tracked separately. Class checks service certificates and container/cradle condition at LSA surveys.

Estimated lifetime: Raft fabric and container are typically rated for 12-15 years of service before manufacturer-mandated retirement or replacement, subject to satisfactory annual service and condition.