Marine Advisory: 02/2007 - Lifeboat Casualty

March 19, 2007

MARITIME ADVISORY – 02/2007

SUBJECT: Lifeboat Casualty Dear Owners/Operators/Masters:

The Administration would like draw your attention to a report received from the Transportation Safety Board (TSB) of Canada regarding a lifeboat drill which resulted in a fatality on the morning of 22 May 2006. The casualty involved the SHIGI Type SRS-37 release gear which is no longer in production.

The TSB investigation found that the lifting hooks were not fully locked into place even though the release handles had been secured using the retaining pins giving a false impression that the release mechanism had been reset prior to hoisting.

Vessel operators should check to see if their lifeboats are equipped with SHIGI Type SRS-37 release gear and if they are:

1. Check to make sure the releasing mechanisms are working correctly and
2. Ensure the crew is properly trained in the use of this equipment.

For more information please contact the Safety Department at telephone +1 703 251 2409 email: safety@liscr.com, or Mr. Timothy M. Keegan at telephone +1 703 251 2409

Regards,

Capt. David Pascoe

Head Maritime Operations & Standards On behalf of

DEPUTY COMMISSIONER OF MARITIME AFFAIRS REPUBLIC OF LIBERIA