PSC deficiency code 11108: Inflatable liferafts

Code 11108 is for the inflatable liferaft itself: the packed raft in its container, its service status and the gear that lets it float free and inflate. Stowage and the number of rafts carried have their own code (11110). When the inspector writes 11108, the doubt is whether the raft would come out of its container and inflate when it's needed.

What the inspector looks at

The inspector usually reads the labels at each raft station first.

• the service label: last service date, servicing station, next due date
• the latest service certificate for each raft, matched by serial number
• the container: cracks, broken bands or seals, signs of water inside
• the painter made fast to the ship through the weak link, not tied straight to the cradle
• the hydrostatic release unit (HRU): fitted correctly, of an approved type and within its expiry or service date
• container markings: number of persons, maker and serial number
• for davit-launched rafts, the operating instructions posted nearby

Common findings

• Liferaft annual service overdue
• Service certificate for liferaft No. 2 not on board
• HRU expired
• Painter tied directly to cradle, weak link missing
• Liferaft container damaged, retaining strap corroded
• Operating instructions for davit-launched liferaft not posted

The rule behind it

SOLAS chapter III, regulation 20 requires inflatable liferafts to be serviced at intervals not exceeding 12 months at an approved servicing station. Where it's proper and reasonable the flag may extend that to 17 months. The same regulation covers servicing of hydrostatic release units, and regulation 13 deals with stowage of survival craft, including float-free arrangements. The LSA Code, chapter IV, sets the construction, container, marking and equipment requirements, together with the float-free arrangement of painter, weak link and HRU. The flag decides which servicing stations it accepts.

Action codes you are likely to see

A missing certificate for a raft whose label shows a valid service can be closed once the station sends a copy, often as 10 or 17. An overdue service needs the raft serviced or exchanged, so it's commonly 17. Survival craft appear among the examples of detainable deficiencies in the IMO port State control procedures, so rafts that can't be relied on for the people on board can lead to a 30. See action taken codes.

How to close it

Ask the agent to arrange a servicing station approved by the maker and accepted by the flag. Most stations can supply an exchange raft so the ship isn't held. Keep the new certificate and the delivery note. Fit a new HRU from stock, record its serial number and expiry date, and check the painter runs through the weak link. Put the next service dates in the planned maintenance system. Related: launching arrangements for survival craft and lifeboats.