Circular
Letter MSC/Circ.1047
GUIDELINES FOR MONTHLY SHIPBOARD INSPECTION OF IMMERSION SUITS AND
ANTI-EXPOSURE SUITS BY SHIPS' CREWS
(adopted
on 21 May 2002)
1.
The Maritime Safety Committee, at its seventy-fifth session (15 to 24 May
2002), recognizing that SOLAS regulation III/20.7 requires monthly inspection
of life-saving appliances to be carried out by using the checklist required by
SOLAS regulation III/36.1 to ensure that their operational readiness is maintained
in service, approved Guidelines for monthly shipboard inspection of immersion
suits and anti-exposure suits by ships' crews, as set out in the annex.
2.
Member Governments are invited to bring the annexed Guidelines to the attention
of all parties concerned, in conjunction with the relevant requirements of
SOLAS regulations III/20.7 and 36.1.
Annex.
GUIDELINES FOR MONTHLY SHIPBOARD INSPECTION OF IMMERSION SUITS AND
ANTI-EXPOSURE SUITS BY SHIPS' CREWS
When
carrying out the inspection of immersion suits and anti-exposure suits required
by SOLAS regulation III/20.7, the following procedure is recommended.
1.
Check closures on storage bag as well as general condition of bag for ease of
removal of suit. Ensure donning instructions are legible. Confirm that suit is
the type and size identified on the bag.
2.
Lay the suit on a clean, flat surface. Make sure the suit is dry inside and out
Visually check for damage. Rips, tears, or punctures should be repaired in
accordance with manufacturer's instructions by a suitable repair station*.
____________
* A "suitable repair station" is one
authorized by the suit manufacturer, and/or acceptable to the Administration.
3.
Check the zipper by sliding it up and down to check for ease of operation.
Using lubricant recommended by the manufacturer, lubricate the front and back
of the zipper and the slide fastener. If the zipper is not functional, the suit
must be removed from service and discarded or returned to the manufacturer or
a suitable