Type "SURVIVA Mk3" 16, 16-person SOLAS A or SOLAS B inflatable liferaft.

Common issues

• CO2 cylinder pressure loss from a slow leak at the valve or thread connection
• Hydrostatic release unit (HRU) reaching its expiry date without being renewed
• Container/valise UV and weather degradation leading to cracking
• Painter line incorrectly rigged or chafed
• Inflation valve leakage found only at service
• Canopy or buoyancy tube fabric degradation from years of UV exposure on deck
• Survival kit contents (flares, rations, first aid) expiring unnoticed between services

Inspection checklist

• Check the container/cradle for damage and secure stowage
• Check securing straps and lashings
• Check the hydrostatic release unit's expiry date and correct fitting/orientation
• Check the last-service date on the container label/certificate
• Check the painter line is correctly attached to the ship and not fouled
• Confirm the launch area is clear of obstructions
• Check the davit and cradle release mechanism where the raft is davit-launched
• Cross-check raft capacity and type against the ship's SOLAS equipment list

Service intervals

Typical intervals for this design class, not the manufacturer’s figures for your model. The manufacturer’s manual is binding.

Critical spares

• Spare hydrostatic release unit (correct type and in-date)
• Painter line and lashings of the correct rating
• Spare container securing strap set

Safety

• The CO2 cylinder is a pressure vessel - never attempt to open or service the container aboard; use only an approved service station
• Hydrostatic release units contain a water-triggered release element - handle and store per the expiry date, never tamper with it
• Container weight is substantial - use correct manual handling technique or lifting gear during drills to avoid injury
• Keep hands and body clear of the painter line and container during launch drills in case of unexpected inflation

Class survey

Surveyors check the service certificate is current, the raft's capacity and type match the ship's SOLAS equipment list, the HRU is in date and correctly fitted, stowage and painter rigging are correct, and for davit-launched rafts that the launching appliance operates correctly

Estimated lifetime: Not expressed in running hours; liferafts commonly cite a service life in the order of 12-17 years before retirement, subject to condition at each service and the specific approval scheme - confirm against the manufacturer's and flag administration's guidance