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Free Fall Lifeboats Suppliers
Free-fall lifeboats are installed where crews may need to leave the ship clear of danger. On tankers, bulk carriers and offshore units, they provide a gravity launch that moves the boat away from fire, explosion or cargo hazards at the stern. For shipowners, yards and superintendents, the task is to choose equipment that meets the rules, fits the vessel and can be serviced over time. Reliable free fall lifeboats suppliers support this with approved systems, clear documentation and service coverage along the vessel’s operating routes.
Free Fall Lifeboats: Design, Standards, and Use on Board
A free-fall lifeboat is a totally enclosed survival craft that slides down a ramp and drops into the sea, then resurfaces and moves away under its own power. To gain type approval, free fall lifeboats manufacturers must demonstrate compliance with SOLAS Chapter III, the LSA Code, and IMO test standards that cover structure, launch performance, and crew protection.
For buyers, the main design elements can be grouped as follows:
- Hull strength: Built to handle impact loads from the certified free-fall height, with additional margin proven by over-height drop tests.
- Seating and restraints: Each person has a defined seat with a high backrest and harness so they remain secured throughout launch and re-entry.
- Enclosure and visibility: A rigid, watertight shell with hatches that can be operated from inside, plus windows or panels that provide enough external view for safe operation.
Launch conditions are also tightly defined. A compliant free-fall lifeboat must:
- Enter the water safely and make positive headway without contacting the hull.
- Perform as required at specified trims and heel angles, reflecting damaged conditions.
- On tankers, be able to launch from the final heel and waterline given by damage-stability calculations, which means ramp geometry, mounting position, and certified free-fall height must match the vessel’s design.
Use on board does not stop at installation. To keep the system ready over its life, owners and managers should:
- Integrate the free-fall lifeboat into the vessel’s drill program, so crews are familiar with boarding, securing, and launch procedures.
- Follow the manufacturer’s manuals and guidance on simulated launching, especially where full free-fall drills are limited.
- Apply the IMO maintenance and testing, using authorized personnel for the specific make and model of boat, ramp, and release gear, and documenting all inspections in line with the SMS.
Building a Supplier Shortlist for Free Fall Lifeboats on Records Marine
Explore Records Marine to shortlist free fall lifeboats distributors by applying smart filters for region, brand, approvals, and then take a closer look at each vendor. From there, you can view detailed company profiles, check ratings and buyer reviews, and contact suppliers directly to discuss technical fit, lifecycle support, and commercial terms.
When comparing offers, it helps to look beyond basic dimensions and check how well each system matches your ship and operating profile:
- Regulatory approvals: Confirm compliance with SOLAS, the LSA Code and relevant IMO test standards, plus class and flag acceptance for the specific model.
- Vessel fit: Check that certified free-fall height, ramp angle and mounting arrangement suit the stern structure, trim and heel conditions, and that capacity matches your master list.
- Service and lifecycle support: Ensure the supplier has, or works with, authorized service providers on your main operating routes, with access to spare parts and clear maintenance instructions.
- Operational usability: Review seating layout, harness design, access and instructions so crew can train and carry out drills with confidence.
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