An Immersion suit is a special designed waterproof suit that prevents hypothermia in case a person found himself overboard in open ocean usually when abandoning a ship.
According to MSC/Circ.1114 immersion suits are subject to an air pressure test at intervals not exceeding 3 Years and in accordance to manufacturer’s instructions.
The available services for Immersion Suits include:
- Air Pressure Test
- Supply
Immersion suits are critical lifesaving equipment used by seafarers to protect themselves from hypothermia in the event of a vessel sinking or other emergency situations. Therefore, it is essential that immersion suits are well-maintained and regularly inspected to ensure their effectiveness.
As per the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) regulations, immersion suits must be inspected annually and pressure tested every three years. The purpose of this inspection and testing is to ensure that the suits are in good condition, free from defects, and capable of providing adequate protection to the users.
During the annual inspection, the immersion suits should be checked for any signs of damage, such as tears, punctures, or abrasions, and repaired as necessary. The zippers, seams, and closures should also be examined to ensure they are in good working order. The inspection should also include an examination of the suit’s buoyancy, which can be tested by placing the suit in water and verifying that it floats correctly.
Pressure testing, on the other hand, is a more comprehensive evaluation of the immersion suits’ integrity. This testing involves placing the suit in a special pressure vessel and increasing the pressure to simulate the conditions that might be encountered during an emergency. The suit’s ability to maintain its shape, stay inflated, and keep the wearer dry is verified during the pressure testing process.
After the inspection and testing are complete, each immersion suit should be labeled with the date of the inspection and the results of the pressure testing. This labeling ensures that each suit can be easily identified, and its maintenance history can be tracked. Any suits that fail the inspection or pressure testing must be removed from service immediately and either repaired or replaced.
In summary, the annual inspection and pressure testing of immersion suits are essential for ensuring the safety of seafarers. These tests help to identify any defects or damage to the suits, and ensure they remain effective in protecting users from hypothermia in emergency situations. Adhering to the MSC regulations for immersion suit maintenance is critical to ensure the safety of seafarers and to meet international safety standards.
