A lifebuoy on a ship is more than just an orange donut. Its characteristics are clearly defined in international documents:
🟢 SOLAS (Chapter III) – basic requirements for life-saving appliances.
🟢 LSA Code (Chapter II, 2.1) – technical characteristics of lifebuoys.
🟢 IMO MSC.81(70), Part 1 – testing procedures.
The main IMO lifebuoy tests are:
- Temperature cycling test – checking operation after sudden temperature changes
- Drop test – can the lifebuoy withstand a drop onto a steel deck?
- Oil resistance test – 24 hours in diesel fuel: should it not lose buoyancy?
- Fire test – 2 seconds in a flame to prevent igniting?
- Flotation test – the lifebuoy with a 14.5 kg iron weight must float for 24 hours?
- Strength test – checking tensile strength/load?
- Light & smoke signal test – how it works with light and smoke?
- Self-activating smoke signal test – testing the signal itself?
❗️ All these tests are conducted at the type approval stage – that is, when the lifebuoy model is approved. ❗️ On board, the crew conducts periodic inspections (usually every 6 months) and records in the LSA Log/PMS to ensure the lifebuoys maintain their properties.
⚠️ Bottom line: if a lifebuoy fails even a simple on-board inspection (for example, noticeable water absorption), it’s a signal to replace it. SOLAS and the LSA Code require that all lifesaving equipment on board be in working order at all times.
💡Want to learn more and work confidently? Then take the course: 3rd Officer: Practical Course.
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