Requirements for lifeboats, rescue boats, launching appliances, and release gear published by the Netherlands

The Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management has published the Requirements for maintenance, thorough examination, operational testing, overhaul and repair of lifeboats and rescue boats, launching appliances, and release gear.

Regarding Resolution MSC.402(96) for maintaining lifeboats, rescue boats, and related equipment, the key points are:

Authorization

The Netherlands Shipping Inspectorate (NSI) authorized Dutch service providers listed on their site.

List of Approved Service Companies for Lifeboats and Rescue Boats, Launching Appliances and Release Gear (Under Res.MSC.402(96))

The NSI has granted approval to a select few Recognised Organisations (ROs), listed HERE.

As stated in paragraph 7.4.3 of the Resolution, the NSI will recognize service providers that have been authorized by any of these ROs to deliver services on a ship.

This recognition applies even if the ship's classification differs from that of the authorizing RO.

The authorization certification issued by the ROs must explicitly mention the applicable Resolution or IACS UR Z17, which might undergo revisions or amendments.

Personnel Compliance

On Dutch-flagged ships, authorized service providers' personnel need certified proof for specific equipment.

Multiple suppliers might be needed based on equipment configuration.

No Manufacturer Support

If manufacturers are defunct, NSI might accept providers approved by the RO.

Conditions include experienced personnel, training, record keeping, and using original or equivalent parts.

Limited Provider Availability

When authorized providers are unavailable, NSI may consider acceptance case-by-case.

Proof of absence, compliance with conditions, RO supervision, and OEM manuals are required.

Draft Standards Position

NSI holds that (draft) standards like ISO 23678(:2022) shouldn't apply until recognized by IMO.

These requirements were published on 9 August 2023 and are effective from 8 August 2023.

For more information, please see the documents below (available only to subscribers):

Itoro No. 09 - Requirements for Maintenance, Thorough Examination, Operational Testing, Overhaul and Repair of Lifeboats and Rescue Boats, Launching Appliances and Release Gear

List of Approved Service Companies for Lifeboats and Rescue Boats, Launching Appliances and Release Gear (Under Res.MSC.402(96))