LR Statutory Alert
Lloyd’s Register (LR) issued a Statutory Alert regarding thealternative methods for lifeboat drills on mobile offshore units.
The Code for the Construction and Equipment of Mobile Offshore Drilling Units, 2009 (the 2009 MODU Code) requires lifeboats to be launched and manoeuvred in the water at least once every three months, as far as is practicable. This has caused concerns in the offshore sector due to the potentially hazardous environmental conditions in the remote locations where units operate, which can prevent drills from being carried out safely.
A change to the Code (adopted byResolution MSC.387(94) as new paragraph 14.12.4.3) now allows operators to use alternative drill methods, provided they are following the draft Guidelines on Alternative Methods for Lifeboat Drills on MODUs (MSC.1/Circ.1486).
Units certified to the 1979 and 1989 MODU Codes may also apply these guidelines.
The guidelines include requirements for equipment maintenance, inspections, servicing, and personnel competence and training in accordance with the Recommendations for the Training and Certification of Personnel on Mobile Offshore Units (Resolution A.1079 (28)).
Source: LR Statutory Alert