Video – Lifeboat on-load release gear

  • Safety Flash
  • Published on 1 January 1999
  • Generated on 16 August 2025
  • IMCA SF 02/99
  • 1 minute read

A video has recently been produced by the UK’s Health & Safety Executive (HSE) entitled “Lifeboat On-load Release Gear – Safe Inspection and Maintenance”.

Four lives have been lost over the last three years in the North Sea, in accidents associated with lifeboat on-load release gear. Investigations have shown that these accidents were occurring during or directly after inspection or maintenance.

The common element appears to be human error, not mechanical failure which raises concerns about the training and experience necessary to perform such work safely.

HSE has produced this video to act as a refresher for anyone who has to inspect and maintain lifeboats. Featuring Mills ‘Titan’ twin falls gear, the video looks at the basic principles of safe inspection and maintenance and how various operations can be undertaken.

This video is available from HSE Video Dept.

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