Accidental Release of Free-fall Lifeboat (FFLB) at Sea

Applicable to: All Indian seafarers and companies

Effective Date: Immediate

Superseded Circulars: None

Accidental Release of Free-fall Lifeboat (FFLB) at Sea

1. Incident Overview

A 28-year-old vessel experienced an accidental release of its free-fall lifeboat (FFLB) while en route from Kochi to New Mangalore on 26 November 2025. The lifeboat was recovered safely, and no casualties, pollution, or structural damage were reported.

2. Causal Factors & Recommendations

The release hook had corroded and weakened due to age, allowing it to slip free even when the holding cam was in the locked position. The bypass valve of the hydraulic unit was also found in the open position.

Recommendations: Inspect and maintain release hooks, establish service life, issue safety flashes, circulate advisory, conduct monthly inspections, and ensure annual thorough examinations and operational tests.

SOLAS III/20 & MSC.402(96) require proper maintenance, thorough examination, and operational testing of lifeboats and launching appliances.

Important Note

Ensure lifeboat release mechanisms and associated launching arrangements are maintained, inspected, and tested in accordance with applicable statutory requirements and manufacturer’s instructions.

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