Lifeboat drop test
- Safety Flash
- Published on 1 August 1999
- Generated on 21 March 2026
- IMCA SF 05/99
- 1 minute read
One of our Members has recently experienced an incident during a lifeboat drop test carried out on three lifeboats.
What happened?
The lifeboat was loaded to 110% load (achieved with water bags) and included three personnel. The boat was fully submerged underwater during its dive and projection away from the platform. After surfacing it was clear that there had been water ingress to the boat. Fortunately there was no injury to the personnel in the boat. The on-site supplier representative performed adjustments to the door latches in order to increase latch tightness and the boat eventually passed the test after two more drops.
The member has informed us that the supplier was Norsafe AS, Faervik, Norway, who have confirmed to them that they have no previous experience of doors opening during this type of operation. The supplier is currently carrying out an investigation to determine the cause of the incident.
IMCA Safety Flashes summarise key safety matters and incidents, allowing lessons to be more easily learnt for the benefit of the entire offshore industry.
The effectiveness of the IMCA Safety Flash system depends on the industry sharing information and so avoiding repeat incidents. Incidents are classified according to IOGP's Life Saving Rules.
All information is anonymised or sanitised, as appropriate, and warnings for graphic content included where possible.
IMCA makes every effort to ensure both the accuracy and reliability of the information shared, but is not be liable for any guidance and/or recommendation and/or statement herein contained.
The information contained in this document does not fulfil or replace any individual's or Member's legal, regulatory or other duties or obligations in respect of their operations. Individuals and Members remain solely responsible for the safe, lawful and proper conduct of their operations.
Share your safety incidents with IMCA online. Sign-up to receive Safety Flashes straight to your email.