🔍 Key Concepts

• Hydrostatic (automatic) release units for liferafts and/or EPIRBs • Manufacturer’s expiration date vs. regulatory maximum interval • Relevant SOLAS / 46 CFR requirements for service life of release mechanisms

💭 Think About

• Is the replacement interval based on how often it is inspected or on the maximum service life before it must be changed out? • When you check an actual hydrostatic release unit on board, what key date is stamped on it, and what typical period (in years) does that represent? • Think about why the interval cannot be too long: what happens to the reliability of a sealed mechanical device that sits exposed on deck over many seasons?

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify the typical maximum service life (in years) stamped or molded into a hydrostatic release unit used for liferafts/EPIRBs. • Confirm whether SOLAS/46 CFR talk about annual inspection versus mandatory renewal interval—you are being asked about renewal/replacement, not routine inspection. • Eliminate options that would leave an emergency-release device exposed to the weather for an unreasonably long time without mandatory replacement.