Launching and embarkation appliances are specially designed to allow survival craft and rescue boats to be launched safely under adverse operating conditions. These systems must function reliably even when the ship is experiencing unfavorable trim or list.
Each launching appliance must allow the fully equipped survival craft or rescue boat to be safely launched when carrying its full complement of persons, while the ship has a trim of up to 10 degrees and a list of up to 20 degrees on either side.
For oil tankers, chemical tankers, and gas carriers, special launching arrangements are required. Lifeboat launching appliances on these vessels must remain fully operational even when the final angle of heel exceeds 20 degrees, taking into account the damaged waterline that may exist following an accident.
Launching appliances must also continue to function effectively under icing conditions, ensuring reliable operation in extremely cold climates.
In addition to launching, every lifeboat launching appliance must be capable of recovering the lifeboat together with its crew, enabling safe retrieval following drills, maintenance, or rescue operations.