🔍 Key Concepts

• Weak link in a hydrostatic release unit (HRU) setup for an inflatable liferaft • How the painter line, HRU, and strong point on deck are connected • The purpose of the weak link: to part at a safe load so the raft can float free if the ship sinks

💭 Think About

• Trace the path of the painter line from the liferaft container all the way to the deck securing point and note each numbered fitting it passes through. • Ask yourself: which numbered part must be designed to break first if the ship sinks while still keeping the raft intact and able to float free? • Identify which component is a sacrificial link (light-looking, usually small and tagged) rather than a solid structural shackle, pad eye, or cradle.

✅ Before You Answer

• Verify which numbered item is between the hydrostatic release unit and the ship’s strong point rather than on the raft itself. • Confirm that the part you choose would fail at a lower load than the painter or shackle, so the raft isn’t dragged under with the vessel. • Make sure you are not picking the HRU body, the cradle, or the raft container—those are not designed to be the weak link.