Liferaft Equipment List: Essential Safety Equipment Inside a Liferaft

A liferaft is one of the most important life-saving appliances (LSA) carried onboard a commercial vessel. In an emergency such as vessel abandonment, fire, collision, flooding or sinking, the liferaft provides temporary survival space for crew and passengers until rescue assistance arrives.

However, the liferaft itself is only one part of the survival system. The equipment packed inside the liferaft plays an equally important role. Drinking water, emergency food, first-aid supplies, signalling equipment, sea anchors, paddles, thermal protective aids and other equipment are intended to support survival and help rescuers locate the occupants.

For shipowners, ship managers, technical superintendents and vessel operators, knowing the liferaft equipment list is important for ensuring that the raft remains properly equipped, serviced and ready for deployment.

This guide explains the essential equipment normally associated with a SOLAS liferaft, why each item is important, and how professional liferaft servicing and inspection helps maintain the readiness of these life-saving appliances.

Liferaft Equipment List

A typical SOLAS liferaft contains a range of equipment covering survival, signalling, communication, first aid and emergency operations.

Below is a practical overview of the major categories.

1. Buoyant Rescue Quoit and Buoyant Line

A buoyant rescue quoit with buoyant line is intended to assist in rescuing a person who has fallen into the water.

It can be thrown toward a person in the water while the line provides a means of assisting the person back toward the liferaft.

The LSA Code specifies requirements for the rescue quoit and associated buoyant line.

2. Liferaft Safety Knife

A safety knife is provided for emergency use inside or around the liferaft.

It can be required for tasks such as:

• Cutting rope or lines
• Releasing equipment
• Emergency operations
• Cutting material when necessary

The approved liferaft equipment configuration determines the type and number of knives provided.

3. Buoyant Bailer

A buoyant bailer is used to remove water from inside the liferaft.

Even a small amount of water entering the raft can create discomfort and affect the occupants' ability to remain dry. A bailer allows survivors to remove accumulated water manually.

The number of bailers can depend on the permitted capacity of the liferaft.

4. Sponges

Sponges are simple but useful survival equipment.

They can be used to absorb and remove smaller amounts of water from inside the liferaft and assist occupants in keeping the raft's interior as dry as possible.

5. Sea Anchors

Sea anchors are important for maintaining the liferaft's position and orientation in the water.

They help:

• Reduce drifting
• Improve stability
• Keep the liferaft oriented relative to the sea
• Reduce the effects of wind and waves

The normal LSA Code equipment arrangement includes two sea anchors, subject to the applicable liferaft arrangement and requirements.

6. Buoyant Paddles

Paddles provide occupants with a basic means of manoeuvring the liferaft.

They can be used to:

• Move away from immediate danger
• Assist with positioning
• Manoeuvre near a vessel or rescue craft
• Help occupants control the raft when conditions permit

Paddles are particularly useful when the liferaft needs to be moved manually.

7. Tin Openers and Scissors

Food rations supplied in a liferaft may require opening equipment.

Tin openers and scissors are therefore included in the survival equipment pack according to the applicable requirements.

These simple items can become extremely important when survivors need to access emergency food or other packaged supplies.

8. First-Aid Kit

A waterproof first-aid outfit is carried for treating minor injuries and providing basic medical assistance.

Possible emergency situations include:

• Cuts
• Minor wounds
• Bruises
• Small injuries sustained during evacuation
• Minor medical emergencies

The first-aid equipment should remain properly sealed, protected and within its applicable validity or inspection requirements.

9. Whistle or Sound Signalling Device

A whistle or equivalent sound signalling device provides survivors with a simple way to attract attention.

Sound signalling can be useful when:

• A rescue vessel is nearby
• Visibility is poor
• Survivors need to attract attention
• Visual signalling is difficult

10. Rocket Parachute Flares

Rocket parachute flares are visual distress signalling equipment designed to help rescuers locate survivors from a distance.

They can provide a high-visibility signal that may be seen by:

• Ships
• Rescue vessels
• Aircraft
• Search and rescue teams

Pyrotechnic equipment has a limited validity period, so expiry dates and condition should be checked during liferaft servicing.

11. Hand Flares

Hand flares provide another method of visual distress signalling.

They are intended for use when a rescue vessel, aircraft or other potential rescuer is within visual range.

During inspection and servicing, pyrotechnics should be checked for:

• Expiry date
• Physical damage
• Corrosion
• Packaging condition
• Correct quantity

Expired or damaged pyrotechnics should be handled and replaced in accordance with applicable requirements and approved procedures.

12. Buoyant Smoke Signals

Buoyant smoke signals can help identify a survivor's location, particularly during daylight.

Smoke signals can create a visible marker on the sea and may assist search and rescue teams in locating the liferaft.

13. Waterproof Electric Torch

A waterproof electric torch is used for illumination and can also support signalling.

A liferaft torch may be suitable for Morse signalling, with spare batteries and a spare bulb or equivalent arrangement as required by the applicable equipment configuration.

This equipment should be checked during servicing to ensure that it remains operational.

14. Radar Reflector

A radar reflector can increase the radar visibility of the liferaft to nearby vessels.

This can be particularly important when:

• Visibility is poor
• The sea state is rough
• The liferaft is difficult to see visually
• Rescue vessels are searching using radar

Depending on the approved arrangement, a radar reflector may be provided unless an alternative approved search-and-rescue locating device arrangement applies.

15. Signalling Mirror

A daylight signalling mirror is used to attract the attention of ships and aircraft.

When sunlight is available, a signalling mirror can produce a visible flash that may be detected from a considerable distance.

Instructions for using the mirror are also provided as part of the survival equipment arrangement.

16. Lifesaving Signals

A copy of the applicable lifesaving signals is provided on a waterproof card or in another suitable protected format.

This helps survivors understand recognised signals used for communicating with search and rescue personnel.

17. Fishing Tackle

Fishing tackle is included in the normal liferaft equipment specified by the LSA Code.

It is intended as an additional survival resource when rescue is delayed.

While fishing equipment may not be the first item considered during an emergency, it forms part of the wider survival provisions carried in the liferaft.

18. Emergency Food Rations

Emergency food rations provide an energy source for survivors while they are awaiting rescue.

The rations are designed for:

• Long shelf life
• Emergency storage
• Easy distribution
• Protection against water and contamination

During servicing, food ration packaging and validity should be checked and expired supplies replaced.

19. Emergency Drinking Water

Fresh drinking water is one of the most important items in a survival situation.

The liferaft's approved equipment pack includes emergency drinking water in the required quantity or an approved desalination arrangement where applicable.

Water supplies should be checked for:

• Expiry or recommended replacement date
• Packaging condition
• Leakage
• Correct quantity
• Proper storage

20. Graduated Drinking Vessel

A graduated drinking vessel allows drinking water to be distributed in controlled quantities.

This is important when survivors have limited fresh water and need to manage their supplies until rescue.

21. Anti-Seasickness Medicine

Seasickness can significantly affect survivors' ability to remain comfortable and functional in a liferaft.

Anti-seasickness medicine is therefore included in the applicable survival equipment pack.

The medicine should be checked for:

• Expiry date
• Packaging condition
• Required quantity
• Instructions for use

22. Seasickness Bags

Seasickness bags provide a hygienic way for occupants to manage seasickness inside the liferaft.

They are a small item but can make the survival environment more manageable for occupants during prolonged periods at sea.

23. Survival Instructions

Survival instructions provide guidance to occupants on how to manage the liferaft and improve their chances of survival.

These instructions can cover matters such as:

• Organising occupants
• Managing water and food
• Using signalling equipment
• Maintaining the liferaft
• Protecting occupants from exposure
• Attracting rescuers

The instructions should be protected from water and remain legible.

24. Instructions for Immediate Action

Emergency instructions help occupants understand what actions should be taken immediately after entering the liferaft.

During an emergency, clear instructions are especially important because occupants may be dealing with stress, injuries, rough seas or poor visibility.

25. Thermal Protective Aids

Thermal protective aids help reduce heat loss and protect survivors from cold environmental conditions.

They are particularly important when:

• Water temperature is low
• Survivors are exposed to wind
• Rescue is delayed
• Occupants are wet after evacuation

The quantity and arrangement of thermal protective aids must comply with the applicable requirements for the liferaft.

Liferaft Equipment Checklist

For practical inspection purposes, a liferaft equipment checklist can include the following categories:

Important: The exact equipment and quantities should always be verified against the liferaft's approved equipment pack, manufacturer's documentation, applicable flag-state requirements and current regulatory requirements. The LSA Code specifies the normal equipment of liferafts, while SOLAS establishes the broader framework for life-saving appliances and their operational readiness.

Why Liferaft Equipment Inspection Is Important

Having a liferaft onboard does not automatically mean that the survival craft is ready for an emergency.

Equipment can deteriorate due to:

• Age
• Moisture
• Salt exposure
• Temperature
• Packaging damage
• Expiry of consumables
• Corrosion
• Improper storage
• Physical damage
• Lack of servicing

For this reason, regular inspection and servicing are essential.

SOLAS Chapter III includes requirements concerning the operational readiness, maintenance and inspection of life-saving appliances. The IMO also identifies the LSA Code as the source of detailed technical requirements concerning the manufacture, testing, maintenance and record keeping of life-saving appliances.

Liferaft Servicing and Equipment Inspection

Professional liferaft servicing goes beyond simply opening and repacking the raft.

Depending on the liferaft, manufacturer requirements and applicable servicing procedures, inspection can include:

Liferaft container inspection

The container, markings and securing arrangements are checked for condition and suitability.

Inflation and leakage checks

The inflatable chambers and associated components are inspected and tested according to applicable servicing procedures.

Emergency equipment inspection

The equipment pack is checked against the approved configuration.

Expiry-date inspection

Items such as food, water, medicines and pyrotechnics are checked for applicable expiry or replacement dates.

CO2 cylinder inspection

The inflation system and cylinder are checked as required by the applicable servicing procedure.

HRU inspection

Where fitted, the Hydrostatic Release Unit and float-free arrangement are checked according to applicable requirements.

Repairs

Damaged components can be repaired or replaced using approved procedures and suitable materials.

Repacking

After servicing, the liferaft is correctly repacked so that it remains ready for deployment.

Certification and documentation

Applicable servicing documentation and certification are completed after the inspection.

Why Choose Marinetech Safety Pvt. Ltd. for Liferaft Servicing?

Marinetech Safety Pvt. Ltd. is an India-based marine safety equipment service and supply company supporting shipowners, ship managers and vessel operators with marine safety services and equipment.

Our website identifies liferaft servicing capabilities including inspection, maintenance, repacking, certification and emergency repairs. The company also lists class approvals and manufacturer approvals associated with its liferaft servicing activities.

Marinetech's liferaft servicing capabilities include:

• Annual liferaft inspection and servicing
• Five-yearly inspection as applicable
• GI testing
• NAP testing
• Floor seam testing
• Liferaft inspection and maintenance
• Repacking
• Emergency repairs
• Certification-related services
• Liferaft equipment inspection
• Liferaft accessories and equipment supply

Marinetech's service page currently lists approvals/recognition involving ABS, BV, RINA, DNV GL, ClassNK, IRS, DGS, Lloyd's Register, Korean Register and CCS, together with manufacturer approvals for various liferaft brands. Applicable approval scope should always be confirmed for the specific liferaft make, model and service requirement.

Liferaft Equipment Supply in India

In addition to servicing, Marinetech Safety Pvt. Ltd. supplies liferaft equipment and accessories for marine applications.

The company's listed liferaft and accessory range includes items such as:

• Emergency drinking water
• Emergency food rations
• Paddles
• FRP repair kits
• First-aid kits
• Anti-seasickness tablets
• Seasickness bags
• Hatchets
• Liferafts
• Liferaft accessories

This makes it possible for shipowners and vessel operators to source both liferaft servicing and marine safety equipment from an India-based marine service and supply company.

Liferaft Servicing in India

For shipowners and managers, choosing a service provider with appropriate technical capability and approval coverage is important.

Marinetech Safety Pvt. Ltd. supports marine customers across major Indian maritime locations and provides marine safety equipment services and supplies.

For detailed information about inspection procedures, testing, repacking, certification and available service capabilities, visit our:

Liferaft Servicing Service Page

If your vessel requires liferaft inspection, servicing, equipment replacement or related marine safety equipment supply, Marinetech can assist with the applicable service requirements.

Liferaft Equipment and SOLAS Compliance

A liferaft's equipment should not be treated as a simple checklist of miscellaneous emergency items.

Every item has a specific survival purpose.

The combination of:

• Liferaft construction
• Inflation system
• Sea anchors
• Emergency equipment
• Signalling equipment
• Food and water
• Medical supplies
• Thermal protection
• Instructions
• Proper stowage
• Regular inspection
• Correct servicing

helps ensure that the survival craft remains ready for its intended emergency function.

SOLAS and the International LSA Code establish the regulatory framework for life-saving appliances, while the exact equipment configuration must be verified against the approved liferaft, manufacturer instructions and applicable flag-state requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About Liferaft Equipment

1. What equipment is inside a SOLAS liferaft?

A SOLAS liferaft normally contains survival and emergency equipment such as a rescue quoit and line, safety knife, bailer, sponges, sea anchors, paddles, first-aid equipment, signalling equipment, food, drinking water, seasickness medication, survival instructions and thermal protective aids. The exact equipment and quantities depend on the applicable approved configuration.

2. What is the most important equipment inside a liferaft?

No single item should be considered the only essential item. Different equipment serves different survival functions. Drinking water and food support survival, signalling equipment helps rescuers locate survivors, first-aid equipment supports injured occupants, while sea anchors and paddles assist with liferaft control.

3. What is SOLAS A Pack in a liferaft?

SOLAS A Pack refers to the equipment configuration specified for liferafts under the applicable LSA Code requirements. Liferaft equipment configurations can differ according to the applicable requirements and approved arrangement, so the marking and manufacturer's documentation should be checked.

4. How often should a liferaft be serviced?

Inflatable liferafts are generally subject to periodic servicing at an approved or appropriately authorized service station in accordance with applicable IMO, flag-state and manufacturer requirements. The servicing interval should always be verified for the specific liferaft.

5. What is checked during liferaft servicing?

Depending on the applicable servicing procedure, inspection can include the liferaft container, inflation system, fabric and seams, leakage, emergency equipment, pyrotechnics, food and water, first-aid supplies, CO2 cylinder, HRU where fitted, repairs, repacking and documentation.

6. Why do liferaft food and water need inspection?

Food, water and other consumable items have shelf-life or replacement requirements. Damaged, expired or deteriorated supplies may not be suitable for an emergency, so they should be checked and replaced according to applicable servicing requirements.

7. Can Marinetech Safety Pvt. Ltd. supply liferaft equipment?

Yes. Marinetech Safety Pvt. Ltd. provides liferaft equipment and accessories in addition to marine safety equipment servicing. Its listed range includes emergency water and rations, paddles, first-aid kits, anti-seasickness supplies and other liferaft accessories.

8. Where can I get liferaft servicing in India?

Marinetech Safety Pvt. Ltd. provides liferaft servicing and inspection support in India. For information about its service capabilities, approvals, inspection procedures and locations, visit the Liferaft Servicing service page on the Marinetech website.

Related Marine Safety Blogs

Continue learning about liferafts and marine safety:

1. SOLAS Chapter III: Liferaft Requirements for Merchant Ships
   Learn about liferaft capacity, stowage, equipment, HRUs, inspection and servicing requirements.
2. Liferaft Service in Mumbai: SOLAS Requirements, Inspection & Certification
   Understand liferaft inspection, servicing, certification and maintenance requirements for vessels calling Mumbai and JNPT.
3. Liferaft Service in Chennai: SOLAS Requirements, Inspection & Certification
   A guide to liferaft servicing requirements for vessels operating around Chennai and Ennore.
4. Liferaft Servicing Procedures: Essential Inspection and Maintenance Checklist
   Understand the major stages involved in professional liferaft inspection and servicing.
5. Liferaft Davit Launching Procedure as per SOLAS Requirements
   Learn about key considerations for liferaft launching arrangements and emergency deployment.
6. Marine Fire Extinguisher Servicing in Chennai: Ship Inspection, Refilling & Hydro Testing
   Explore marine firefighting equipment servicing for vessels calling Chennai and Ennore.

Conclusion

A liferaft is designed to provide a critical survival platform during a vessel emergency, but its effectiveness depends heavily on the condition and availability of its equipment.

From drinking water, food rations and first-aid equipment to flares, smoke signals, sea anchors, signalling devices and thermal protective aids, every component has a specific role in supporting survivors.

Regular inspection and professional liferaft servicing help ensure that equipment remains available, correctly packed and suitable for emergency use.

For shipowners, ship managers and vessel operators looking for liferaft servicing, liferaft inspection, liferaft equipment supply and marine safety equipment services in India, Marinetech Safety Pvt. Ltd. provides servicing and supply solutions for marine applications.

Need liferaft servicing or equipment supply?
Visit the Liferaft Servicing page to learn more about our inspection, maintenance, testing, repacking and certification-related services.

Marinetech Safety Pvt. Ltd.
Marine Safety Equipment Service & Supply | India

Navigating Safety, Supplying Confidence