Safety at sea is paramount, and having dependable life-saving equipment can make all the difference in an emergency. The davit launched liferaft is one such vital piece of maritime safety equipment. In this article, we will focus on the topic that what is a davit-launched liferaft, exploring its functions, how it works, and why it is an indispensable component of maritime safety.

Functions of a Davit Launched Liferaft

A davit launched liferaft is a specially designed inflatable life raft used on ships, offshore platforms, and other marine vessels. Its primary function is to evacuate passengers in the event of an emergency such as a ship sinking, fire, or other life-threatening circumstances. Unlike throw-overboard liferafts, davit-launched liferafts are secured on deck and launched using mechanical davit systems.

How Does a Davit Launched Liferaft Work

A davit launched liferaft operates through a series of carefully coordinated steps:

Stowage: Davit-launched liferafts are securely stored on the vessel, typically in designated compartments or containers on the deck or superstructure. These storage locations are designed to protect the liferafts from environmental elements and potential damage.

Activation: In the event of an emergency, the crew activates the release mechanism for the liferaft. This can be done manually by pulling a release handle or automatically through a hydrostatic release unit, which activates when the liferaft is submerged to a certain depth.

Inflation: Upon activation, the liferaft starts to inflate. Inflation can be achieved through either a CO2 cylinder, where the release mechanism punctures the cylinder, allowing CO2 gas to rapidly inflate the liferaft, or a combination of gas and water pressure.

Launch: Once fully inflated, the liferaft is ready for deployment into the sea. This is accomplished by a davit system, a mechanical device designed to swing the liferaft out of its stowage place and safely lower it into the sea. Crew members operate the davit system, ensuring a controlled and safe deployment.

Occupancy: As the davit-launched liferaft enters the water, it stabilizes and provides a safe platform for passengers to board. These liferafts are designed to remain steady even in stormy seas and come equipped with multiple entrances, handholds, and boarding ladders for convenient access. The liferaft also contains essential survival equipment such as water, food, first aid supplies, and signaling devices.

Survival: Passengers inside the liferaft can use the provided materials to sustain themselves until rescue arrives. The liferaft is self-contained, offering protection from the elements and the means to signal for assistance using flares, radios, or other communication equipment.

Visibility: Davit launched liferafts are typically brightly colored, often in international orange or other highly visible hues. Reflective materials are also used to enhance visibility, making it easier for search and rescue teams to locate them, especially during low-light conditions or at night.

Importance of a Davit Launched Liferaft

A davit-launched liferaft is of paramount importance in the maritime industry for several compelling reasons:

Rapid Deployment: In emergency situations at sea, time is of the essence. Davit-launched liferafts can be deployed quickly, minimizing the time it takes for passengers and crew to evacuate a sinking ship or respond to other life-threatening incidents.

Safety and Stability: These liferafts are designed to provide a safe and stable platform for occupants. They remain upright and buoyant even in rough seas, high winds, and adverse weather conditions, preventing capsizing and ensuring passenger safety.

Capacity: Available in various sizes, davit-launched liferafts can accommodate different vessel types and passenger loads. This adaptability makes them suitable for a wide range of marine circumstances, from small pleasure boats to large commercial vessels.

Regulatory Compliance: International maritime regulations, notably those outlined in the SOLAS Convention, mandate the presence of davit-launched liferafts on specific types of vessels, including commercial ships and passenger vessels. Compliance underscores their importance while ensuring vessels meet stringent safety standards.

Self-Containment: These liferafts are typically equipped with essential survival supplies, including fresh water, non-perishable food, first aid kits, and signaling devices such as flares and radios. This self-containment allows passengers to sustain themselves until rescue arrives, even in remote or challenging maritime environments.

Visibility: Davit-launched liferafts are designed with high-visibility colors, often in international orange or yellow, to enhance their visibility from a distance. Reflective materials further increase visibility during low-light conditions or at night, aiding search and rescue efforts.

Reliability: These liferafts undergo rigorous testing and quality assurance to ensure their reliability in emergencies. They are built to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including exposure to seawater, UV radiation, and extreme temperatures.

Evacuation of Non-Swimmers: Especially crucial for vessels carrying passengers who may not be strong swimmers, such as children, the elderly, or individuals with limited mobility. Davit-launched liferafts offer a safe and convenient mode of evacuation for all passengers, regardless of their swimming ability.

Conclusion

A davit-launched liferaft is indispensable for maritime safety as it provides a reliable means of escape and survival during emergency situations at sea. These inflatable life rafts are designed to withstand adverse conditions and protect occupants until assistance arrives. Securely stowed on vessels and launched using mechanical davit systems, they exemplify the commitment to safety in the maritime industry.