SOLAS Sets Safe Servicing Standards
Amendments to Chapter III of SOLAS, which came into force on 1 July 2006, and the proper implementation of MSC1206 (incl MSC1093), a guidance note amplifying SOLAS requirements, together introduce new rules for looking after lifeboats and davits. The new rules and guidance require regular tests and inspections of lifeboats, release gear and davit winches on all SOLAS ships, and specify what these tests should be and who should do them.
In order to get 23 quayside cranes operational by this autumn, a special system was brought in by Vancouver BC and Virginia USA located Global Rigging and Transport (GRT) to relocate the three cranes already in place. It is called the Containerised Transport Truss System (CTTS) and has been developed for the land transport of cranes without the need for disassembly.
Writing in the June issue of Schat-Harding’s newsletter, group after sales and service manager Dave Bradley said, ‘While weekly and monthly work can be carried out by onboard personnel, it must be done to standards set down by the manufacturer. The annual and five yearly tests and service should be done by personnel trained and authorised by the manufacturer. So for the first time people inspecting, testing and servicing lifeboats and davits should be properly qualified and follow a strict routine set by the manufacturer.’
