🔍 Key Concepts
• Construction features of inflatable liferafts (what each part is designed to do: lifelines, righting straps, cover, towing bridle)
• Load‑bearing points on a life‑saving appliance versus parts meant only for occupant use
• Manufacturer’s instructions and SOLAS/LSA Code requirements for handling and recovery of inflatable liferafts
đź’ Think About
• Ask yourself: Which of these parts is specifically designed to take the strain of being pulled or lifted by the ship without tearing or damaging the raft?
• Consider what each item is normally used for in an emergency: which one is meant for people to grab, which one to flip the raft upright, which one to protect from weather, and which one to connect to the ship?
• Think: If you used each option to hoist the raft with a hook or winch, which is MOST likely to damage the raft or fail under load?
âś… Before You Answer
• Identify the primary purpose of: external lifelines, righting straps, weather cover, towing bridle.
• Check which parts are clearly not designed for vertical lifting loads (they are for hand‑grip, righting by people, or weather protection only).
• Confirm which component is intended to transmit pulling force between the liferaft and the ship (especially during towing or recovery).