IMSML Web Article 11/2026: MSC.559(108) - Amendments to the Requirements for Maintenance, Thorough Examination, Operational Testing, Overhaul and Repair of Lifeboats and Rescue Boats, Launching Appliances and Release Gear (MSC.402(96) as amended)

Another short article today on an amending resolution which entered into force on 1 January 2026. The amendment was necessary as the provisions of Chapter III of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) 1974 was amended by MSC.404(96). The amendments also take into account amendments to the Life Saving Appliance (LSA) Code by MSC.535(107).

The amendments introduced by MSC.559(108) are introduced via Annex 28, page 2. Paragraph 6 contains specific procedures for inspection, maintenance, thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair.

There is a new Paragraph 6.2.3 which replaced the same numbered provision. It contains a list of details for annual thorough examination and operational testing. These new provisions apply to:

[1] Lifeboats (including free-fall lifeboats);

[2] Rescue boats;

[3] Fast rescue boats.

Under the new Paragraph 6.2.3 regulates thorough examination and checking for condition and operation in respect of the following:

[1] Condition of the boat structure, see Paragraph 6.2.3.1;

Note:

[a] This includes fixed and loose equipment;

[b] It includes a visual examination of the external boundaries of the void spaces, as far as practicable.

[2] Engine and propulsion system, see Paragraph 6.2.3.2;

[3] Sprinkler system (where fitted), see Paragraph 6.2.3.3;

[4] Air supply system (where fitted), see Paragraph 6.2.3.4;

[5] Manoeuvring system, see Paragraph 6.2.3.5;

[6] Power supply system, see Paragraph 6.2.3.6;

[7] Bailing system, see Paragraph 6.2.3.7;

[8] Fender / skate arrangements, see Paragraph 6.2.3.8;

[9] Rescue boat righting system (where fitted), see Paragraph 6.2.3.9;

[10] Ventilation system (where fitted), see Paragraph 6.2.3.10.

Thank you for reading IMSML Web Article 11/2026

Stay tuned for the next IMSML Web Article 12/2026: MSC.560(108) - Amendments to PART A of the Seafarers’ Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Code

Signing-off for today,

Dr Irwin Ooi Ui Joo, LL.B(Hons.)(Glamorgan); LL.M (Cardiff); Ph.D (Cardiff); CMILT

Professor of Maritime and Transport Law

Faculty of Law

Universiti Teknologi MARA Shah Alam

Selangor, Malaysia

Tuesday,  17 March 2026

Note that I am the corresponding author for the IMSML Website Articles. My official email address is: uijoo310@uitm.edu.my