There are various lifebuoy requirements as per SOLAS and LSA Code. Here in this article, we have compiled all the requirements in one place. So, let’s have a look at them.

• The inner diameter should not be less than 400 mm and the outer diameter should not be more than 800 mm.
• Mass of the lifebuoy should not be less than 2.5 Kg.
• Man Overboard lifebuoy’s mass should not be more than 4 Kg.
• The diameter of the grab line should not be less than 9.5 mm. It’s length should be at least 4 times the outer diameter of the body and it should be secured at 4 equidistant points.
• Lifebuoy should be able to support not less than 14.5 KG of Iron in Fresh Water for 24 hours.
• It should be constructed of inherent buoyant material.
• Should not sustain burning or continue melting after being totally enveloped in fire for 2 seconds.
• It should be able to withstand a drop into water from height at which it is stowed above waterline in lightest sea going condition or 30 metres whichever is greater without impairing its operating capability.
• At least one lifebuoy on each side shall be fitted with buoyant lifeline. The length of the lifeline should not be less than twice the height at which it is stowed above water in lightest sea going condition or 30 metres, whichever is greater.
• Not less than half of total number of lifebuoys shall be provided with self igniting light.

• Not less than two of these lifebuoys shall also be fitted with self-activating smoke signals.
• At least one lifebuoy should be placed in the vicinity of the stern.
• Lifebuoys should be distributed so as to be readily available on both sides of the ship covering all open decks.
• Lifebuoys shall be stowed in such a way so that they can be rapidly cast loose and should not be permanently secured.
• Each lifebuoy shall be marked with block capitals of the Roman alphabet with Name and Port of Registry of Ship.
• The number of Lifebuoys required depends on the length of the vessel as follows:

Cargo Ships

1. Vessel’s length less than 100 metres = 8 lifebuoys.
2. Vessel’s length greater than 100 metres = 10 lifebuoys.
3. Length of Vessel greater than 150 metres = 12 lifebuoys.
4. Vessel’s length greater than 200 metres = 14 lifebuoys.

Passenger Ships

1. Vessel’s length under 60 metres = 8 lifebuoys.
2. Vessel’s length more than 60 metres but less than 120 metres = 12 lifebuoys.
3. Length of a vessel greater than 120 metres but less than 180 metres = 18 lifebuoys.
4. Vessel’s length more than 180 metres but less than 240 metres = 24 lifebuoys.
5. Vessel’s length greater than 240 metres = 30 lifebuoys.

So, these are various lifebuoy requirements as per SOLAS and LSA Code. Hope you all will find these lifebuoy requirements compiled at one place useful.