Davit-Launched Liferafts
Davit-launched liferafts are specially designed to be lowered safely into the water using an approved launching appliance. These liferafts must be capable of withstanding the forces encountered during launching without suffering damage that could affect their performance.
When fully loaded with the maximum number of occupants and all required emergency equipment, a davit-launched liferaft must be capable of withstanding a lateral impact against the ship’s side at a speed of at least 3.5 metres per second (12 feet per second). It must also survive being lowered into the water from a height of at least 3 metres (10 feet) without sustaining damage that would impair its operation.
Passenger ship davit-launched liferafts must be arranged so that all occupants can board them rapidly and safely. Similarly, cargo ship davit-launched liferafts must be capable of being fully boarded within three minutes from the moment the order to board is given.