Lsa Flashcards
Describe the construction requirements for lifeboats.
Lifeboats must have rigid hulls, provide stability in a seaway, maintain positive stability when upright in calm water with a full complement, and stay afloat when holed below the waterline. Each lifeboat must have a certificate of approval detailing the manufacturer’s info, model, serial number, and other relevant details.
Example: The construction requirements ensure that lifeboats are safe and reliable for use in emergencies.
What is the purpose of buoyancy tanks in lifeboats?
Buoyancy tanks provide the necessary flotation to keep the lifeboat afloat even when fully loaded with passengers and crew.
What are the different means of propulsion for lifeboats?
Lifeboats can be propelled by oars, sails, or engines. Oars are traditional but difficult in rough weather, sails require skill, and engines are powerful but noisy.
Additional Information: The means of propulsion impact the efficiency and maneuverability of lifeboats in various conditions.
What are Totally Enclosed Lifeboats (TELs)?
TELs are lifeboats that offer complete protection from the elements with a sealed and insulated environment, often self-righting to ensure safety even if capsized.
Describe Partially Enclosed Lifeboats (PELs).
PELs have a partially enclosed structure with a canopy for shelter and open sides for ventilation. They balance protection and ease of boarding and are typically motorized.
What are Free-Fall Lifeboats (FFLs) and how are they launched?
FFLs are designed for rapid evacuation by being launched from a height, descending through the air before landing safely on water. They are often located at the stern of a vessel.
Example: Free-fall lifeboats are crucial for quick and efficient evacuation in emergency situations.
List some essential equipment found on lifeboats.
Lifeboats typically carry buoyant oars, a survival manual, a magnetic compass, a sea anchor, painter lines, food rations, water receptacles, pyrotechnics, an electric torch, signaling mirrors, anti-seasickness tablets, and other safety equipment.
What are the pyrotechnics included in a lifeboat?
A lifeboat typically carries 6 hand flares, 4 rocket parachutes, and 2 buoyant smokes.
What is the function of a Search and Rescue Radar Transponder (SART) on a lifeboat?
SART operates on a 9GHz frequency, helping to locate the lifeboat by displaying blips on X-Band Radar up to 6 nautical miles, forming concentric circles at closer ranges.
Explain the operation of an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB).
EPIRBs aid in locating distressed boats/aircraft. They operate at frequencies of 1.6GHz and 406MHz and transmit a powerful, stable signal to accurately locate the beacon.
Describe the on-load release mechanism for launching a lifeboat.
The on-load mechanism allows the lifeboat to be released from its wire above water with the crew inside, providing a safer release when the sea is rough.
What is the off-load release mechanism in lifeboats?
The off-load mechanism releases the lifeboat once it touches the water, detaching the hook automatically. If not, a crew member can manually disengage it.
What precautions should be taken when lowering or launching survival crafts?
Ensure both hooks release simultaneously, check launching equipment, maintain the correct ramp angle, secure all loose equipment, and make sure the crew is familiar with the procedures.
What are the key steps in retrieving enclosed lifeboats?
Ensure all openings are closed, seat belts are fastened, check the davit area is clear, inspect the wire, and hoist the lifeboat at a minimum speed of 0.3m/sec with full capacity.
What are the requirements for rescue boats?
Rescue boats must be between 3.8m and 8.5m long, capable of carrying at least five seated persons, maneuver at a minimum of 6 knots for 4 hours, and withstand exposure for 30 days afloat in all sea conditions.
