Lifeboat Annual Inspection – Fujairah Anchorage

Safety First. Ready When It Matters Most.

The day started at anchorage off Fujairah with calm seas and good visibility—ideal conditions for carrying out the annual lifeboat inspection. After toolbox talk and permit clearance, we began by preparing the work area and ensuring all safety measures were in place. Barricading, PPE checks, and communication with the bridge were completed before commencing the job.

The lifeboat was carefully lowered using the davit system under controlled conditions. All suspension wires, sheaves, hooks, and release mechanisms were visually inspected during lowering. Particular attention was paid to signs of corrosion, deformation, and abnormal wear on the hooks, chains, and slings.

Once secured, we proceeded with inspection of the winch and gearbox assembly. The gearbox cover was opened, revealing the internal gear train. Gears were checked for tooth wear, pitting, alignment, and lubrication condition. Old grease residues and contaminants were cleaned, and gear condition was found satisfactory with no abnormal backlash or damage. Bearings and shafts were inspected for smooth rotation and play.

The brake system was dismantled and examined. Brake linings, friction plates, and springs were measured and verified against acceptable limits. Brake holding capacity was tested to confirm safe load retention during hoisting and lowering operations.

The drum and wire rope were inspected next. The wire was checked along its full visible length for broken strands, corrosion, flattening, and proper spooling on the drum. Drum surface condition and flange integrity were confirmed satisfactory.

Functional testing followed after reassembly. The lifeboat was hoisted back under power, observing smooth operation, uniform load distribution, and correct brake response. Limit switches and locking arrangements were tested and verified operational.

Finally, the lifeboat itself was inspected—hull condition, drain plugs, painter line, hooks, and securing arrangements were checked. All findings were recorded, and the system was handed back in operational readiness.

Completing this inspection reinforces the critical importance of lifeboat readiness. Every component—from the smallest gear tooth to the release hook—plays a vital role in ensuring crew safety when it matters most.