Safety at Sea Begins with a Well-Maintained Liferaft
Imagine this: you’re in open waters, your vessel is in distress, and your only hope is the liferaft. You pull the cord… but nothing happens. A terrifying thought, right? Unfortunately, such scenarios are not unheard of.
This is why regular liferaft maintenance is not just a requirement but a necessity. At Gaelix Marine Service, the official representative of Lalizas, we specialize in liferaft inspection, servicing, and certification, ensuring your equipment never fails you in an emergency.
Authors of the photos: Leafieldmarine, Solasmarine, Gaelix MS
Why is Liferaft Maintenance So Important?
A liferaft is not just equipment—it is a life-saving device. It must always be in top condition and ready for use at a moment’s notice.
Key Reasons for Regular Maintenance:
- Prevention of Failures. Over time, air chambers can lose pressure, seams may weaken, and emergency equipment can become outdated.
- Compliance with SOLAS and ISO 9650. An unmaintained liferaft may fail inspections, resulting in penalties or operational issues.
- Emergency Readiness. Disasters are unpredictable. A well-maintained liferaft ensures safety when it’s needed most.
Steps in Liferaft Maintenance
Proper servicing involves several crucial steps:
1. Visual Inspection
- Checking the condition of the outer casing.
- Identifying punctures, cracks, or wear.
- Examining valves and connections.
2. Inflation System Check
- Inspecting compressed gas cylinders.
- Testing valves and inflation hoses.
- Detecting potential air leaks.
3. Airtightness Testing
The liferaft is inflated and monitored over time to ensure pressure retention. Any loss indicates leaks or damage requiring repairs.
4. Emergency Equipment Inspection
- Checking flares, lights, and signaling devices.
- Inspecting food and water supplies.
- Replacing expired components.
During one of our recent inspections, we found a liferaft with expired signal flares—five years overdue. Had an emergency occurred, the crew wouldn’t have been able to send distress signals.
How Often Should a Liferaft Be Serviced?
Under SOLAS regulations, liferafts must undergo annual inspections.
- The average lifespan of a liferaft is 10–15 years.
- Missing annual checks increases the risk of equipment failure in a crisis.
Liferaft Certification: Which Standards Matter?
Certified liferafts ensure compliance with international and national regulations.
International Standards:
- SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) – The primary global maritime safety standard.
- ISO 9650 – For liferafts used on yachts and small vessels.
- IMO (International Maritime Organization) – Sets requirements for design and performance.
Regional Requirements:
- Russian Maritime Register of Shipping (RMRS).
- European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA).
Operating with a non-certified liferaft can lead to fines and restrictions on vessel use.
Lalizas Liferaft Overview
Lalizas manufactures certified liferafts that meet international safety standards.
| Model | Capacity | Standard | Lifespan | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lalizas ISO-RAFT | 4 people | ISO 9650 | 12 years | Details |
| Lalizas SOLAS OCEANO | 6 people | SOLAS | 15 years | Details |
| Lalizas RACING II | 8 people | ISO 9650 | 10 years | Details |
| Lalizas SOLAS DEEP SEA II | 10 people | SOLAS | 15 years | Details |
Selecting the right model depends on vessel type and operating conditions. If unsure, our experts can help you choose the best option.
Why Trust Professionals for Liferaft Servicing?
Liferaft servicing requires specialized knowledge and equipment.
Why Choose Gaelix Marine Service?
- Certified to international standards SOLAS and ISO 9650.
- Use of genuine spare parts.
- Official certification after servicing.
- Servicing all brands and models, including Lalizas, Viking, Zodiac, Plastimo, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should a liferaft be inspected?
Once a year, as required by SOLAS regulations.
Can I service my liferaft myself?
No. Only certified service stations are authorized to perform inspections and servicing.
How do I choose the right liferaft model?
Selection depends on vessel type, passenger capacity, and operational environment.
What certifications should a liferaft have?
It must meet SOLAS, ISO 9650, or relevant national standards.
Why choose Gaelix Marine Service?
We are an official Lalizas representative and provide top-quality servicing.
Conclusion
A liferaft is not just equipment—it is a critical safety measure.
At Gaelix Marine Service, we provide professional servicing and certification for all types of liferafts, ensuring compliance with the highest safety standards.
📌 Don’t wait until an emergency—schedule your liferaft servicing today!