Type 8 DK+, 8-person capacity SOLAS A or SOLAS B inflatable liferaft.

Common issues

• Hydrostatic release unit (HRU) reaching its expiry/service-life limit unnoticed
• Painter line chafe or incorrect securing to the weak link/cradle
• Cradle or lashing corrosion restricting float-free operation
• Canister/valise seal deterioration allowing water ingress
• Service due date exceeded without the raft being sent to an approved service station

Inspection checklist

• Visual check of canister/valise for damage, corrosion of banding, and cracking
• Confirm HRU service/expiry date is current
• Confirm periodic service due date and last approved service station stamp/certificate
• Check cradle, chocks and lashings for corrosion and correct float-free arrangement
• Verify the painter line is correctly secured with weak link intact, not seized to a fixed point incorrectly
• Confirm location markings, SOLAS servicing sticker and retro-reflective tape are present and legible
• Check stowage allows unobstructed launching per the vessel's arrangement plan

Service intervals

Critical spares

• Hydrostatic release unit of the correct approved type for this liferaft model
• Weak link / painter line assembly
• Servicing kit items (gas cylinder, CO2 charge) supplied and fitted only by the approved liferaft service station

Safety

• CO2 inflation system under pressure - do not tamper with the canister outside of approved servicing or actual emergency use
• Incorrect painter/weak-link rigging can prevent float-free release in an emergency or drag the raft down with a sinking vessel
• Never obstruct the float-free arrangement or launching area with stowed gear

Class survey

Liferafts are SOLAS LSA items. Class/flag surveys check the servicing certificate and due date, HRU expiry, correct stowage/float-free arrangement, and that the raft's SOLAS pack (A or B) and capacity match the vessel's safety equipment certificate. On-board crew checks are limited to visual/external condition - internal condition is only assessed at the approved service station.