Common Mistakes While Launching Lifeboat and How to Avoid Them

Launching lifeboat is one of the most critical emergency procedures onboard a ship, yet it’s often riddled with errors that can cost lives. 

Whether during drills or actual emergencies, many crew members make preventable mistakes while launching lifeboat systems—due to panic, poor training, or mechanical failure. 

In this blog, we’ll explore the most common errors made during launching lifeboat, why they happen, and how to avoid them through best practices and SOLAS-compliant procedures.

Why Launching Lifeboat Must Be Error-Free Every Time

Launching lifeboat may seem straightforward in theory, but in high-stress scenarios, even experienced crew can falter. 

These lifeboats are designed to save lives in extreme conditions—whether you're abandoning ship due to fire, flooding, or engine failure. SOLAS mandates strict standards and guidelines for launching lifeboat to ensure they’re functional and deployable even in rough seas.

Yet statistics from maritime safety reports consistently highlight human error, inadequate maintenance, and lack of training as major contributors to lifeboat launch failures. 

Missteps like tangled ropes, unsecured hatches, and improper engine checks can delay launch or cause injury.

Avoiding these issues begins with knowing what they are and ensuring every crew member is trained, prepared, and compliant with modern best practices.

Top 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Launching Lifeboat

Let’s break down the key issues that compromise successful launching lifeboat operations:

1. Inadequate Crew Training

One of the most frequent issues is poor understanding of launching lifeboat procedures. Crew members unfamiliar with their lifeboat type—be it free-fall, davit-launched, or enclosed—may misinterpret steps, skip safety checks, or panic.

Solution:
Regular drills, practical demonstrations, and simulation-based training must be mandatory. Every crew member should know their exact role during launching lifeboat exercises.

2. Failure to Check the Release Mechanism

Automatic or hydrostatic release systems can jam, especially when not serviced. A non-functional release mechanism can delay or completely prevent the lifeboat from launching.

Solution:
Inspect the release gear every month. During annual servicing, test it under load conditions and replace worn parts. Keep release instructions laminated and visible near the mechanism.

3. Unsecured Hatches and Loose Equipment

When launching lifeboat, unlatched hatches can swing open and injure crew or damage nearby gear. Similarly, loose tools or supplies can become deadly projectiles during launch.

Solution:
Always do a quick physical inspection before launch. Secure all movable items, lock hatches, and stow gear properly before boarding.

4. Incorrect Engine Start Procedure

Many lifeboat engines don’t start instantly, especially if fuel lines are not primed or if air has entered the system. Starting the engine after launch (instead of before) can lead to drifting without power.

Solution:
Always start the engine before launching lifeboat. Check fuel, oil, and cooling systems ahead of drills or departures. Replace spark plugs and filters during scheduled servicing.

5. Improper Use of Gripes and Safety Hooks

Gripes and hooks are meant to secure the lifeboat during sea passage but must be released before launching. Many accidents occur because crew forget to detach them.

Solution:
Double-check that all securing devices are released before initiating the lowering process. Assign one person to this task in your lifeboat drill checklist.

6. Rope Tangling or Falls from Height

Improper stowing or rushed lowering can lead to tangled ropes or sudden drops. This endangers both the lifeboat and nearby personnel.

Solution:
Inspect winch systems, davits, and blocks before every drill. Ensure that ropes are neatly coiled and lubricated. Never allow untrained crew to operate lowering controls.

7. No Pre-Launch Communication

In emergencies, chaos can erupt. Launching without clear instructions or miscommunicating the launch order can separate crew or leave people behind.

Solution:
Designate a launch coordinator. Use walkie-talkies or PA systems if necessary. Ensure headcounts, assigned roles, and confirmation signals are agreed upon before the launch begins.

SOLAS & IMO Guidelines for Launching Lifeboat

When launching lifeboat, compliance with SOLAS Chapter III and IMO Resolution MSC.402(96) is mandatory. These include:

• Weekly and monthly inspections of lifeboat equipment
  
  

• Annual servicing by certified professionals
  
  

• Simulation of full launching lifeboat sequence at least once every 3 months
  
  

• Recording all drills and servicing in the ship's logbook
  
  

Common points checked during regulatory inspections:

• Engine functionality
  
  

• Structural integrity
  
  

• Release mechanism performance
  
  

• Communication and navigation tools inside the lifeboat
  
  

• Safety gear (flares, rations, water, etc.)
  
  

Failing to maintain or properly launch a lifeboat can result in severe penalties, detentions, or worse—loss of life in a real emergency.

Best Practices for Smooth and Safe Launching Lifeboat

To prevent mishaps and ensure full compliance, adopt these standard operating practices on board:

• Maintain a launching lifeboat checklist posted near each lifeboat station.
  
  

• Schedule mock launches during daylight and low-visibility conditions.
  
  

• Rotate crew roles during drills to ensure versatility.
  
  

• Keep a laminated QR code or link to digital manuals and videos onboard for just-in-time training.
  
  

• Encourage a “speak up” safety culture—if someone notices a fault, they should be empowered to pause the launch.
  
  

FAQs: Common Concerns Around Launching Lifeboat

Q1. How often should launching lifeboat drills be conducted?
SOLAS mandates once every 3 months for each lifeboat, including lowering to the water where practical.

Q2. Are there different launch procedures for different lifeboats?
Yes. Free-fall, davit-launched, and enclosed lifeboats all have specific operating sequences. Crew must be trained on the specific type installed on board.

Q3. Can I launch a lifeboat manually if the power fails?
Yes. Most systems have manual overrides, but they must be tested and understood beforehand.

Q4. What if a lifeboat release system malfunctions during an inspection?
It must be repaired or replaced before the vessel sails. No exceptions are allowed under SOLAS.

Q5. Can we reuse lifeboats after drills?
Yes, as long as there is no damage and all components are checked and restored to readiness.

Final Thoughts: Launching Lifeboat the Right Way, Every Time

Launching lifeboat is a life-critical operation. When done right, it saves lives. When done wrong, it risks them. Most failures are not due to defective design, but to human error, oversight, or lack of training. 

By understanding these common mistakes and applying the solutions and best practices shared above, shipowners can ensure their crew and vessels are prepared for any emergency.

Looking to train your crew or inspect your lifeboats for SOLAS compliance? Talk to a certified marine safety provider today and ensure your vessel is ready for safe launching lifeboat operations—every time.