In February 2011 during a routine trial, a 6.5m ship's Fast Rescue Boat parted from its davit wire and fell 29 metres, causing a fatality. Following the accident, the Marine Accident Investigation Branch found that the vessel was significantly heavier than originally designed. This paper describes the subsequent investigation into the causes and effects of the identified weight growth. The full destructive testing of a representative Fast Rescue Boat and the critical assessment of its structure is detailed. Practical SOLAS-based trials are also described whereby the effects of weight increase on the safe functionality of the boat are assessed. These trials have determined that the use of in-built buoyancy foam, in association with the wider design approaches to such craft, can lead to the possibility of water retention. The associated weight growth can lead to the significant erosion of lifting safety factors and can have catastrophic consequences if not managed correctly. The use of buoyancy foam is common place across the industry; however it is proposed that the associated concerns through life may not be obvious to key stakeholders. Despite the apparent technical simplicity of such craft, risks to the safety of the crew and the reputation of the vessel operator are significant. This paper highlights some of the critical issues for buyers, designers, owners, operators and maintainers of Rescue Boats, Fast Rescue Boats and Lifeboats.
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