NDSC-R-23

Regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring the reliability and safety of life-saving equipment, such as the VIKING NDSC-R-23, which is designed to meet SOLAS certification standards for crew evacuation. This equipment is approved by DNV and requires annual servicing at an approved service station to comply with SOLAS and MSC.1/Circ.1328 regulations. Common issues that may arise include the expiration of the hydrostatic release unit (HRU), CO2 bottle pressure loss due to corrosion or aging, material degradation from UV exposure on deck, line corrosion or blockage, and the expiration of onboard supplies like flares, water, and provisions. It is important to keep a spare HRU on board and to replace it according to the manufacturer's recommended interval, typically every two years. Additionally, the liferaft itself must be replaced or recertified every five years to maintain compliance and readiness for emergencies.