Noting the high number of injuries and one death reported during such trials, Interferry successfully argued that only a sample of those on board needed to actually disembark into survival craft. The time required for a full evacuation could then be calculated from the sample results, reducing exposure to unnecessary risks. The submission was based on work undertaken by the DNV High Speed Light Craft and Ferry Committee.

Interferry expertise also proved crucial when the sub-committee considered specifications for 'high seatbacks', a term referred to but not defined under Annex 10 of the HSC Code.

Supported by two executives from Australian seat manufacturer Beurteaux, the Interferry delegation countered a proposed definition of 700-850mm with the aid of crash test videos showing that passenger safety could be assured with seatback heights below 700mm. It was also pointed out that there are no existing certified seats of the proposed height, which if accepted would entail additional expense to the industry in having to develop, test and certify a new seat.

Interferry maintained that injury criteria were more relevant than a prescriptive regulation. After lengthy debate, a compromise proposal was reached requiring either specified injury criteria or a seatback height of 850mm.

MJInformation No: 21960